Isabelle Vanderschelden will discuss why some films are considered typically French, whilst others seem to try and imitate American cinema, or indeed to be products designed for a global market. The session will look at the exploitation of ‘Frenchness’and nostalgia for the past; current contradictions between urban and rural France; European issues and French stars and directors abroad.
A short presentation of the topic illustrated with clips will be followed by a few sample exercises and informal discussions on how to use the films in class or for coursework.
Films to be analysed include L’Auberge espagnole, Les Poupées Russes and Amélie.