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Overview

A study of New Zealand film with emphasis placed upon historical and theoretical approaches.

This paper is designed as a study of New Zealand cinema in its institutional and historical context with regard to some key issues. These issues include: the political economy of filmmaking in New Zealand; the socio-historical context of both the subject matter and production environment of several films; problems that arise in trying to articulate precisely what "New Zealand cinema" is and, by extension, what New Zealand is. Ultimately, this will lead us to consider discourses of identity pertaining to several overlapping and conflicting forces: national, transnational, ethno-cultural and postcolonial. This paper is an excellent fit for both Film and Media students, Communications students, and anyone interested in this topic. 

About this paper

Paper title Cinema of Aotearoa New Zealand
Subject Media, Film and Communication
EFTS 0.15
Points 18 points
Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $1,103.10
International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
Prerequisite
MFCO 101 or MFCO 102 or MFCO 103 or 54 Arts points
Restriction
MFCO 306
Schedule C
Arts and Music
Contact
mfco@otago.ac.nz
Teaching staff

Convener and Lecturer: Dr Yuki Watanabe

Paper Structure

MFCO 216 is divided into five modules:

  • National identity, political economy and the production of culture
  • Contested histories: Imagining New Zealand's past
  • Postcolonial identities in Aotearoa
  • Space and warfare: Land/cityscapes and power
  • In pursuit of New Zealand-ness: Nationalism and transnationalism
Teaching Arrangements
Lectures, tutorials, screenings and library visits (Central and Hocken).
Textbooks

Required readings will be available on Blackboard or in the course pack.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the paper will:

  • Demonstrate in-depth understanding of the central concepts, theories and current areas of debate in the study of Aotearoa New Zealand cinema.
  • Expand their viewing range and understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand films.
Assessment details
  • Short Essay (1,500 words), 15%
  • Screening/lecture/tutorial discussions, 20%
  • Concept test, 20%
  • Critical media review project, 45%

Overview

A study of New Zealand film with emphasis placed upon historical and theoretical approaches.

This paper is designed as a study of New Zealand cinema in its institutional and historical context with regard to some key issues. These issues include: the political economy of filmmaking in New Zealand; the socio-historical context of both the subject matter and production environment of several films; problems that arise in trying to articulate precisely what "New Zealand cinema" is and, by extension, what New Zealand is. Ultimately, this will lead us to consider discourses of identity pertaining to several overlapping and conflicting forces: national, transnational, ethno-cultural and postcolonial. This paper is an excellent fit for both Film and Media students, Communications students, and anyone interested in this topic. 

About this paper

Paper title Cinema of Aotearoa New Zealand
Subject Media, Film and Communication
EFTS 0.15
Points 18 points
Teaching period Not offered in 2027 (On campus)
Domestic Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for 2027 have not yet been set
International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
Prerequisite
MFCO 101 or MFCO 102 or MFCO 103 or 54 Arts points
Restriction
MFCO 306
Schedule C
Arts and Music
Contact
mfco@otago.ac.nz
Teaching staff

To be advised when next offered. 

Paper Structure

MFCO 216 is divided into five modules:

  • National identity, political economy and the production of culture
  • Contested histories: Imagining New Zealand's past
  • Postcolonial identities in Aotearoa
  • Space and warfare: Land/cityscapes and power
  • In pursuit of New Zealand-ness: Nationalism and transnationalism
Teaching Arrangements
Lectures, tutorials, screenings and library visits (Central and Hocken).
Textbooks

Required readings will be available on Aoroa or in the course pack.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the paper will:

  • Demonstrate in-depth understanding of the central concepts, theories and current areas of debate in the study of Aotearoa New Zealand cinema.
  • Expand their viewing range and understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand films.
Assessment details
  • Short Essay - 1,500 words (15%)
  • Screening/Lecture/Tutorial Discussions (20%)
  • Concept Test (20%)
  • Critical Media Review Project (45%)
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