20740043 - storytelling and film analysis

The course aims to provide tools for the analysis of film and audiovisual storytelling. The skills provided, in particular, take into account the interplay between the main analytical methodologies, the organizing principles of audiovisual language, the transversal perspectives of narratology, and the insights from audiovisual professionals. A significant consideration is assigned to the investigation of the relationship between analysis and interpretation, and special attention is brought to the issues of communicative effectiveness, viewer engagement and emotion. Finally, the possibilities offered by new technologies for data collection and the value added by video essay practices are taken into account.

Curriculum

teacher profile | teaching materials

Mutuazione: 20740043 Storytelling e analisi del film in Cinema, televisione e produzione multimediale LM-65 R CAROCCI ENRICO

Programme

The course provides methodological tools for narrative analysis, with a particular focus on audiovisual media, and examines the relationships between textual analysis, narrative theory, and the viewer’s experience. No particular prerequisite is asked for. However, basic skills will be provided during the classes. The program is divided into two modules. The first module provides some basic narratological principles and focuses on the character as a vehicle for cinematic emotional engagement. The second module discusses the topic of storytelling in cognitive terms and focuses on the cultural implications of contemporary storytelling practices.

Core Documentation

1) Alessandro Perissinotto, 'Raccontare. Strategie e tecniche di storytelling', Laterza, Bari-Roma 2020;
2) Murray Smith, 'Personaggi. Perché i film ci coinvolgono: narrazione ed emozione al cinema', Audino, Roma 2026 (in corso di stampa); original: 'Engaging Characters: Fiction, Emotion, and the Cinema', 2nd ed., Oxford University Press, Oxford 2022;
3) Angus Fletcher, 'Storythinking. La nuova scienza del pensiero narrativo', Codice, Torino 2024; original: 'Storythinking: The New Science of Narrative Intelligence', Columbia University Press, New York 2023;
4) Antologia di saggi a cura del docente (dispensa cartacea disponibile all'inizio del corso).

Attendance

The attendance is facultative. However, also considering that the lessons are focused on close analysis, it is strongly recommended.

Type of evaluation

The written exam consists of essays questions. The assignment of the grade will take into account, in particular, the competence, the ability to argue and expound correctly, and the understanding and critical development of the topics. A written assignment will be held mid-course.

teacher profile | teaching materials

Programme

The course provides methodological tools for narrative analysis, with a particular focus on audiovisual media, and examines the relationships between textual analysis, narrative theory, and the viewer’s experience. No particular prerequisite is asked for. However, basic skills will be provided during the classes. The program is divided into two modules. The first module provides some basic narratological principles and focuses on the character as a vehicle for cinematic emotional engagement. The second module discusses the topic of storytelling in cognitive terms and focuses on the cultural implications of contemporary storytelling practices.

Core Documentation

1) Alessandro Perissinotto, 'Raccontare. Strategie e tecniche di storytelling', Laterza, Bari-Roma 2020;
2) Murray Smith, 'Personaggi. Perché i film ci coinvolgono: narrazione ed emozione al cinema', Audino, Roma 2026 (in corso di stampa); original: 'Engaging Characters: Fiction, Emotion, and the Cinema', 2nd ed., Oxford University Press, Oxford 2022;
3) Angus Fletcher, 'Storythinking. La nuova scienza del pensiero narrativo', Codice, Torino 2024; original: 'Storythinking: The New Science of Narrative Intelligence', Columbia University Press, New York 2023;
4) Antologia di saggi a cura del docente (dispensa cartacea disponibile all'inizio del corso).

Reference Bibliography

No particular reference bibliography. However, it is possible to identify useful reference textbooks with the teacher. It is recommended to refer to: Andrea Bernardelli, 'Breve dizionario di narratologia', Carocci, Roma 2024.

Attendance

The attendance is facultative. However, also considering that the lessons are focused on close analysis, it is strongly recommended.

Type of evaluation

The written exam consists of essays questions. The assignment of the grade will take into account, in particular, the competence, the ability to argue and expound correctly, and the understanding and critical development of the topics. A written assignment will be held mid-course.