African Film Studies is an accessible and engaging introduction to
African cinemas, showcasing the diverse cinematic expressions across the
continent. Bringing African cinemas out of the margins and into
mainstream film studies, the book provides a succinct overview of the
history, aesthetics, and theory of sub-Saharan African cinematic
productions.
Updated throughout, this new edition includes new chapters on Nollywood,
Ethiopian cinema, Streaming, and the rise of televisual series, which
serve to complement the book's main themes:
- Overview of African cinema(s): Questions assumptions and defines the
characteristics of African cinemas across linguistic, geographic, and
filmic divides
- History of African cinemas: Spans the history of film in Africa from
colonial import and 'appropriation of the gaze', the rise of Nollywood
and local TV series to streaming, as well as building connections with
the development of African American cinema
- Aesthetics: Introduces new research on previously under-explored
aesthetic dimensions such as cinematography, animation, and film music
- Theoretical Approaches: Addresses a number of theoretical approaches
and critical frameworks developed by scholars in the study of African
cinemas
- Traditions and practices in African screen media: Features Ethiopian
cinema, Nollywood, Local Televisual Series in Burkina Faso and South
Africa, and the Streaming rush for Africa
All chapters include case studies, suggestions for further reading, and
screening lists to deepen the reader's knowledge, with no prior
knowledge of African cinemas required. Students, teachers, and general
film enthusiasts would all benefit from this accessible and engaging
book.
