Film theory: An introduction - Softcover

Lapsley, Robert; Michael Westlake Ltd

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0719073758 ISBN 13: 9780719073755

Publisher: Manchester University Press, 2006

Synopsis

Film theory: an introduction offers a highly readable account of film theory and is an indispensible resource for students. The discussion ranges from the late 1960s to the present, a period in which a number of conceptual strands, notably politics, semiotics and psychoanalysis were woven together in an ambitious synthesis. In this book, the authors chart the construction of this synthesis and its subsequent fragmentation, and clearly explain the various intellectual currents which have contributed to it. Divided into two parts, the first covers the conceptual background of film theory, dealing with historical materialism, semiotics and psychoanalysis, whilst in the second the authors concentrate on particular topics such as authorship, narrative, realism, the avant-garde and postmodernism. For this new edition, the authors have added a new foreword, a fully updated and expanded bibliography, and a 60-page Retrospect outlining developments within film theory since the book's original publication in 1988. This Retrospect identifies a number of broad readings of Theory, each with a different perspective on the main content of the book. As such, it provides a new and original mapping of the 'post-theory' moment in this complex and often fractured terrain. Accessible and authoritative, this book is essential reading for students of film theory, or indeed anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern cinema.

About this title

Synopsis:

An accessible account of film theory during a key period between the 1960s and the present day Covers the conceptual background of film theory, looking at historical materialism, semiotics and psychoanalysis Examines specific topics in film theory such as authorship, narrative, realism, the avant-garde and postmodernism The second edition features an extensive retrospective introduction Completely updated bibliography for the second edition, which will be an invaluable resource for students

About the Author:

Robert Lapsley teaches film studies and critical theory at The University of Manchester Michael Westlake is a novelist, translator and scriptwriter. His novels include 'The Triumph of Love' and Other Paintings, 51 Soko and Imaginary Women -- .

About this edition

• Publisher: Manchester University Press
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0719073758
• ISBN 13: 9780719073755
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 334