What will I learn on this module?
The modern period in horror cinema is generally seen as beginning in 1968 with the release of Night of the Living Dead. This module explores the wide range of horror films produced since that date, primarily in the US but also considering the development and influence of horror film production in Italy, Japan and the UK. Through this exploration, the module will identify key themes, formats and cycles, and engages with the relation of the horror genre to changes in the film industry and to broader social and historical change. It also explores the aesthetic innovations and challenges offered by a range of forms of horror, and the creative ways in which the genre has experimented with film form and style. In taking the module, you will acquire an understanding of the critical and cultural issues raised by this important area of American and global culture and you will develop your own critical and analytic insights into a range of iconic horror films produced between 1968 and the present.
How will I learn on this module?
The module is taught via a lecture (two hours) and associated seminar (one hour). The lectures will introduce students to key historical and theoretical issues, and relevant film examples. Seminar activities will strengthen student knowledge and critical reflection upon the issues under discussion. Finally, tutorials support students with specific issues, not least concerning assessment. Students are required to make positive contributions to the learning experience. Each week, students will be required to watch a relevant film that will provide a case-study for that week’s lecture and seminar. They are also expected to prepare for each seminar by undertaking the weekly required reading, made available via the e-learning portal. They are also encouraged to develop communication skills by taking an active part in seminar discussions. Assessment will be through a 3000-word essay (100%) toward the end of the module.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Information about all teaching sessions - including content, required reading, and assessment details - will be distributed to you at the beginning of the module. All core reading, along with supplementary reading, will be available via the e-learning portal. The module will include in-class material on essay preparation, further supported by individual tutorials.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
KU1 - you will acquire a systematic understanding of the historical and industrial contexts of horror film production from the 1960s to the present day.
KU2 - you will be able to utilise a variety of critical and theoretical approaches associated with the horror genre and apply these in the analysis of specific films.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
IPSA - you will develop intellectual and practical attributes including critical analysis skills and engagement with scholarly research and commentary
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity):
PVA - you will enhance your communication skills, as well as improving your critical reflective skills and developing problem-solving and independent learning
How will I be assessed?
The summative assessment is a 3000 word essay. This tests your knowledge of critical and theoretical approaches, the ability to deploy this material in a sustained analysis of a specific film or films and to construct a reasoned argument supported by evidence. (KU1, KU2)
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided
Course info
UCAS Code T720
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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