Film Theory

Realism vs. Formalism

Film theory is a set of scholarly approaches within the academic discipline of film or cinema studies that began in the 1920s by questioning the formal essential attributes of motion pictures; and that now provides conceptual frameworks for understanding film's relationship to reality, the other arts, individual viewers, and society at large. Film theory is not to be confused with general film criticism, or film history, though these three disciplines interrelate.

To begin, complete the following lessons below:

LECTURE - Intro to Film Theory

Click the VIEW LECTURE button below to access the powerpoint presentation on the basics of Film Theory.

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WATCH - Realism vs. Formalism

In film theory, Realism is not a synonym for authenticity. It is an approach to filmmaking that attempts to capture everyday reality in a documentary-like fashion, both from a style and substance point of view. Click the WATCH NOW button to view.

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WATCH - Gravity (2013)

Two astronauts work together to survive after an accident leaves them stranded in space. Click the WATCH NOW button to view now.

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READ - What is Realism?

StudioBinder breaks down the many aspects of Realism in film and art. Click the READ NOW button to check it out.

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REFLECTION - Film Theory

After reviewing the lecture notes on Film Theory and watching the various elements above, click the START NOW button below to reflect upon the realism / formalism components found in Gravity.

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