Media + Film + Television: University of Greenwich School of Design, Show 2020 by University of Greenwich School of Design

University of Greenwich School of Design 11 Stockwell Street Greenwich London SE10 9BD Design_School@greenwich.ac.uk +44 (0)20 8331 9135 Copyright © University of Greenwich No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photography, recording or any information storage and retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. We endeavour to ensure that all information is accurate at the time of publication. ISBN: 978-1-9996921-6-2 Design: Claire Mason + Mike Aling Production assistant: Mihaela Mincheva

Contents

Introduction to School of Design 1 Professor Stephen Kennedy  Introduction to Media 3 The Antifragile Dr Maria Korolkova  Introduction to Film + TV 5 Lee-Jane Bennion-Nixon  BA (Hons) FILM + TELEVISION PRODUCTION 7  BA (Hons) FILM STUDIES 11  BA (Hons) MEDIA + COMMUNICATIONS 41 BA (Hons) DIGITAL ARTS 43  ADVANCED PROJECTS 45 BA (Hons) SOUND DESIGN 87 Dissertations 89 MA MEDIA AND CREATIVE CULTURES 98  MA DIGITAL ARTS 99 MSc FILM PRODUCTION 100 MA FILM PRODUCTION 101 Research and Enterprise 103 Dr Benz Kotzen

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

vii

Introduction Professor Stephen Kennedy

School of Design

Head of School

You will forever be the graduating year of 2020 — not the unfortunate year who missed out, but the year who rose to the challenge. The year who dealt with unprecedented pressure and stress to fulfil your potential and produce the work that you were always capable of. Myself and all my colleagues in the school are proud to have been able to support you, and even more proud to witness the fruits of your labour. The academic year has ended, programmes are complete, and degrees awarded. Yet for many I am guessing there is a feeling of ‘unfinished business’ and incompletion. The School of Design shares those feelings with you and is committed wherever possible to make it up to you. The amazing work that is compiled in this catalogue is testament to your enduring creative talents and capacity to overcome adversity, and as soon as is practicable we look forward to displaying it in our gallery spaces. Until then it will be distributed widely across our creative community via our planned on-line show. The range and the quality of the work on display here is outstanding. Across all the disciplines in the School, the ability to work to find and implement solutions for the world as it is and critically re-evaluate the possibilities for the world as it can be, is demonstrated to great effect. As is the increased significance of the relationship between the virtual and the real, the remote and the present. As we retreated into the ‘safety’ of our digital cocoons your creative and critical skills were tested to their limits, and your efforts have been well rewarded. Thanks to you, the School of Design continues to go from strength to strength, and the work presented here attests to its growing reputation and standing as a creative institution of national and international standing. Thank you for your fortitude and resilience. Good luck for the future, and we look forward to welcoming you back to celebrate with us in person very soon.

Introduction to Media Dr Maria Korolkova

The Antifragile

Head of Media Portfolio

“Some things benefit from shocks; they thrive and grow when exposed to volatility, randomness, disorder, and stressors and love adventure, risk, and uncertainty. Let us call it antifragile. Antifragility is beyond resilience or robustness. The resilient resists shocks and stays the same; the antifragile gets better.” Nassim Nicholas Taleb Antifragile: Things That Gain From Disorder

This is a quote from the book called Antifragile: Things That Gain From Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a Lebanese-American scholar of randomness, probability, and uncertainty, who coined the term ‘antifragile’ back in 2012. Yet, looking at the works by our creative media graduates produced through these unprecedented times of 2020 pandemic, I can fully relate to this concept today. Finishing their major projects in the heart of the lockdown, whether in London or back home, our students managed not only to adapt to the new conditions, but to thrive, to expand their creative potential, to come up with the new ways of collaboration and self-expression. At the same time, it would be unfair to say that 2019/2020 was all about COVID-19. As a Media portfolio, we were delighted to welcome the first cohort of MA Digital Arts and the second cohort of MA Media and Creative Cultures students to our media family in 2019. They joined a truly vibrant, brave and provocative community of creative researches and makers, and you can have a sense of it through the final works or our students – as diverse and unconventional as contemporary cultural landscape itself. In Dissertations 2020, we have topics ranging from explorations of Netflix ubiquity to video games and historical authenticity, from the role of media in preventing genocide to the role of mainstream journalism in promotion populism and fear regarding recent EU refugee crisis and Muslim immigration to the UK; from post #meetoo cinema to feminism in South Korean films. Advanced Project students took their creative practice-as-research exploration equally far, and just few examples below demonstrate how diverse and unique their approaches are – be it a work that addresses the complexity of food or an exploration of how track and field athletes are utilising social media during self-isolation; a creative critique of colourism in the media, and the negative stigma associated with being dark skinned; or a sonic exploration into the unperceivable sounds that surround us on a daily basis. For more details and more titles of creative work from BA H Media and Communication, BA H Film Studies, BA H Digital Arts and BA H Sound Design do refer to the full catalogue, there is a lot to discover. These are the project that are antifragile, created to make the world better – especially through the times of uncertainty.

Introduction Lee-Jane Bennion-Nixon

Film + Television Welcome to

Film + TV Portfolio Lead

Our colleagues on the film and television teaching team have been discussing the concept of amor fati or ‘love of fate’ this week and it seems an apt framework for reflecting on this most challenging of years. The onset of a global pandemic is certainly something that is beyond anyone’s control and subsequently we have no choice but to ride the wave. And what a wave it’s been! For our graduating students this has been the ultimate production challenge and one that will undoubtedly serve them in future years as the completed films serve testament to their tenacity and adaptability. Speaking to many colleagues at other institutions whose productions were obviously impacted by COVID-19, they are all astounded that our students at Greenwich were able to get ten films completed. As staff we are extraordinarily proud of the achievements under such conditions and so too should all of you be. What you have encountered here as low-budget student filmmakers are constant challenges, including but not limited to: health and safety on your shoots ranging from moving; traffic to pig farms; actors working for free; live streaming of graduate shows, actors who can’t act; shooting entire films in remote wooded locations; storms with so much water coming from the sky. The film and television production landscape you are entering differs greatly from what it was merely months ago. But then again, new technologies and platforms always present challenges to traditional production methods and in that sense, a pandemic is just the latest in the shifting sands of film and television making. As if that weren’t enough however, the political landscapes and discourses around history, race, representation and who or what actually constitutes “key work” have all been thrown into the mix and life, presently, can feel a bit daunting. However, as you begin to plot your journey’s on to bigger and better things it is important to remember the formative experiences forged in the fires here at Greenwich. You are more prepared than perhaps you think you are for creative industries that will need a new generation of clued up thinkers to help navigate these increasingly tumultuous times. Please remember that our offer of completing your productions and using our kit for future work stands – just get in touch with the programme team to discuss. Until we can have a celebratory screening of your work, we wish you the very best.

BA (Hons) Film + Television Production OUR PRACTICAL FILM AND TELEVISION degrees encourage our students to be creatively adventurous, intellectually curious and ethically engaged. We ask that our students explore issues that matter to them, their peers or their families, through the medium of filmmaking. We believe that context is king and take our students on a journey that will have them explore and enrich their under-standings of contemporary international production practices. As part of understanding the evolving context of production, our modules explore the history and application of storytelling principles, narrative and concept development, fiction and documentary production, as well as understanding and use of creative filmmaking technologies. Students also get a sense of industry practices by following live client style briefs, including some from external charities, and others that focus their filmmaking towards a selection of film festivals or push them towards innovation. Popular career choices for our film and television graduates include studio and location crew roles, editing and post production, as well as television and commercial work.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

Blindfold

FILM + TV

BA (Hons) Film Studies OUR DEGREE IN FILM STUDIES is designed to help students view films from a different perspective. In-depth examinations of film history, international industries and broader social and cultural contexts allow them to develop strong skills in critical analysis and research. This is aided by learning about camera techniques and editing processes first-hand, in order to obtain a detailed understanding of the medium of film. Our Greenwich Campus is a popular location for film crews and has featured in Hollywood blockbusters such as‘Thor: The Dark World’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: on Stranger Tides’. Career options for our graduates include working in distribution, exhibition and marketing within the film and TV industries, as well as advertising, curation, public service and teaching.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

Maren Ekrheim BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director Taylor Fuller

BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Producer

Joe Dabbs BA FILLM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director of Photography Barbora Kubu

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Production Design

Jamie Leigh Hennessey BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Sound Design Farah Faidhi

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Editor

A TWIST IN THE TAIL Instagram: @atwistinthetailfilm

Over the years, women from a small town start to go missing, yet there is no trace or evidence found anywhere. A search party is organised by the locals in order to find a girl who has recently disappeared. We are introduced to the town's trusted pig farmer who is providing food to the community in this difficult time, as he has been the town's main food supplier for decades. A film inspired by true events that depict a dark, dirty image of how messed up the world can be. It is revealed that the farmer has spent years cooking up the perfect murder plot: taking young women at their most vulnerable time in order to kill them and dispose of their bodies by mutilating them and feeding them to his pigs. Which he then sells back as food to his friends and families in the town's community.

Will Christopher give up reality in the hopes of finding Willow again?

FILM + TV

A Twist in the Tail

FILM + TV

Timotei Todor BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Writer, Director, Co-producer

Elizabeth Howard BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Editor, Co- Producer and Production Designer

Chung Nyugen BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director of Photography

IMPASSE

Instagram: @impasse.short

Will Christopher give up reality in the hopes of finding Willow again?

Impasse, follows the story of young British Private, William Tinley who just lost his older brother on the battlefield and wakes up in a medical camp in the care of some volunteers. This story doesn't focus on the historical side of the war, it focuses more on a soldiers' need to bury his brother. Confused, worried and injured, the soldier can't set his priorities straight. Must he follow his mission or the answer lays in front of him in that German deserter who scavenges the camps for food and drink?

FILM + TV

Detached

FILM + TV

Will Christopher give up reality in the hopes of finding Willow again?

CHRISTOPHER AND THE FREAKS Instagram: christoperandthefreaksfilm

Christopher and the Freaks is the story of a father, a writer, who loses his inspiration and desire to write after losing his daughter, Willow, his trusted helper in the process of writing and developing his stories. He struggles to accept the loss and to move forward and his attempts are hindered by some events which for others seem abnormal, but for him, it is a new reality. He starts seeing the characters of his book as if they are real, and they all seem to draw him towards completely letting go of reality.

Andreea Albu BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Production Designer Anna Succol

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director

Luca Tropea BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Producer Roksana Szpaczek

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director of Photography

Marta Starczynowska BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Editor Jack Trott

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Sound recordist

DETACHED Instagram: @detached

Detached is a surreal character driven drama that follows Finn; a reserved young man, who has been finding comfort in the interactions with the people in his dreams. Whereas his relationships in the real world have grown to be dry and distant. Until one day, when he starts to dream of a scared little girl, who asks for his help. His dreams and reality merge when he finds an article of a kidnapped girl, who bears a striking resemblance to the girl in his dreams. With her life in his hands, he will have to step out of his comfort zone in order to save her.

Jose-luis Aldridge Flores BSC Digital Film Production Director Sva Sodeikyte BA Film and TV Production Producer Ben Marlow BA Film and TV Production Director of Photography Joe Anderson BSC Digital Film Production Production Designer Emma Granger BSC Digital Film Production Editor Max Lancaster BA Film and TV Production Sound Designer

FILM + TV

Adam Wawrety BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Director Charlie Harris

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Producer

Ben Woodbridge BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Director of Photography Edwin Pankratovas

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Production Design

George Watton BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Sound Design George Watton

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Editor

BLINDFOLD

‘Blindfold’ is a character-driven drama exploring how our actions, even with the best intentions, can be damaging towards people we love most. The story follows Alice, the wife of a visually impaired painter, Daniel, who balances her busy work life with taking care of her husband. Their relationship dynamic is disrupted when Daniel’s sister inspires him to travel abroad. Alice, not able to accept her husband’s disability not being an impediment, rejects the idea creating communicative dissonance between the couple. As a result, Daniel begins to show signs of wanting to become more independent. This causes Alice to re-evaluate the way she approaches her husband’s condition; she can either accept it or risk losing stability in their relationship.

FILM + TV

Will Christopher give up reality in the hopes of finding Willow again?

Shannon Lawford BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Cinematographer & Co-Producer Cedrick Jison BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Writer & Co-Producer

Tim Hughes BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director Carlos Santos

BA FILM AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION

Editor

Sherelle Allen BA FILM AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION

Production Designer Thomas Schaack

BA FILM AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION

Sound Supervisor

OUR FATHER ourfather2020official@gmail.com

‘Our Father' tells the story of Joe Turner, a young man who battles between his perception of reality and estrangement to the teaching of his religion. Unable to understand the tragic death of his parents, Turner yearns for an explanation; partly as he is burdened by the guilt of abandoning his parent’s presence throughout his adult life. Paranoid and obsessed, he rummages through piles of evidence in his room, where he is left to question his faith “Do you believe in GOD?”.

Our Father

FILM + TV

Isobel Doyle BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director Jessica Shaw

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Producer

Felix Gibbons BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director of Photography Oliver Hudson

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Production Designer

Tom Perkins BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Script Writter Matthew Conley

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Editor

WITH YOU IN MIND Instagram: @withyouinmindfilm

When a Mother dies, we see a detached Father and Son dealing with grief in opposite ways. With You In Mind is a character driven drama in which the Father must break away from his own grief and masculine expectations in order to rebuild a relationship and support his Son during their time of loss. We follow the journey of two male characters that must come together to help one another heal, reminding us that while aspects of life can be sad, they can also resolve into something beautiful. Focusing on themes of love, loss and toxic masculinity, we explore how family dynamics change when the matriarch is no longer present.

FILM + TV

With You in Mind

FILM + TV

Emily Montyn BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director Georgia Weaver

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Producer

Jade Sheldon BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director of Photography Annabel Thomas-Gay

BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Production Designer

Evelyn Iulia BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Sound Tom Kennedy

BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Editor

VERONICA'S LIST Facebook: veronicaslist

This sitcom pilot follows the life of Veronica, a 75 year old woman who was dumped into a care home by her children after the death of her husband. Miserable about her mundane routine that the care home offers. Her devoted yet airheaded carer Kenny persuades her to create a bucket list. Failing to take this seriously, Veronica is determined to go to a strip club. When the permission is denied, Kenny calls a stripper to the home however this doesn’t go to plan when her son Michael pays her a visit with news of a new grandchild. She later realises that she should use the bucket list as a way to reconnect with her daughter.

FILM + TV

Detached (on set)

FILM + TV

Amber Vassallo BA FILM AND TV PRODUCTION

Director

Saoirse Toner BSC DIGITAL FILM PRODUCTION

Producer

THE NORTH IS NOW Facebook: thenorthisnow

A short animated film depicting the story of an up and coming athlete whose career and livelyhood are threatened by an unplanned pregnancy. Following her struggles against an oppressive religious family and an outdated government policy. 'The North is Now' tells a story all too familiar to many women from Northern Ireland. (production pending)

Will Christopher give up reality in the hopes of finding Willow again?

FILM + TV

BA (Hons) Media + Communications OUR MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS degree provides an academic, creative and critical understanding of the media, for roles in a variety of creative industries. The Media and Communications programme enables students to develop an in-depth understanding of how media inform, persuade and make an impact, and to explore these issues through a combination of traditional scholarship and innovative media practice. By the end of this degree, our graduates know how to produce creative content across different kinds of media, including writing, camera use, sound recording and post-production/editing. We frequently invite guest lecturers, including professionals from media and creative organisations, to share their specialist knowledge, which allows students to keep abreast of the latest developments in their field. This employment-focused programme prepares students to be among the content creators and creative entrepreneurs of tomorrow. Popular career options for our Media and Communications graduates include roles with in-house communications teams, PR, marketing, content management and social media.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

BA (Hons) Digital Arts DIGITIAL ARTS students explore ideas and concepts through a diverse range of projects,  combining artistic flair with emerging digital technologies. They develop skills in animation, graphics, music technology, and creative coding, going on to make expanded and immersive artworks through transmedia, installation, projection, interaction, and kinetics. Our graduates bring fresh, arts-led approaches to research and problem solving which are highly valued by progressive employers. They are ready for careers across a wide range of businesses and organisations that already work with leadingedge digital technologies, where innovative research and development are crucial to address the challenges facing the 21st century economy. They are also well-equipped to pursue self-employment as independent artists, or go on to postgraduate study in related subject areas.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

Advanced Projects ADVANCED PROJECTS mentors BA (Hons) Media and Communications, BA (Hons) Film Studies, BA (Hons) Sound Design and BA (Hons) Digital Arts students through a self-directed process of study, research and practice leading to the exhibition of a creative final output and production of a project report. During the first term the student submits a proposal for either a group or solo project. A significant feature of the course is that once the student’s proposed area of activity has been agreed, they are supervised in working towards their goal through regular focused tutorials with a staff member who has experience in that area.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

Ashley MacLaughlin Biorhythms BA SOUND DESIGN

ashley9505@gmail.com

A project exploring the hypnotic effects of both sound and imagery, their relationship with each other and to psychedelic states and altered states of consciousness. This is achieved sonically through tempo, timbre, texture and spacialisation as well as visually by means of colour, imagery and movement. Styles and tempos range from rich ambient atmospheric based compositions, to faster paced psychedelic electronic compositions, whilst complimenting and flowing seamlessly from and into one another. The project aims to make use of evolving fractal and geometric inspired imagery and audio to create a hypnotic and sensory end product.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Elliot Puffett Synthesising Soundscapes and Electronic Composition for Internal Sonic Spaces BA SOUND DESIGN

epuffettmusic@gmail.com

The suburban environment is an area known for its lower density of population and its greater open space. Within this environment, sound entities can often be perceived more as apparent in comparison to those found within urban environments; cities. This higher-fidelity environment enables greater clarity of hearing and improved identification of sounds. However, the sounds of suburbia are often only recognized through a sociological standpoint, yet it is inevitable that due to their characteristics they are able to produce greater sonic capabilities. The presented works were created through the investigation of the potentials in these often unattended sounds, which sought to demonstrate how field recordings within the suburban household from such spaces as a Bathroom, Garden, Kitchen and Living Room, could be manipulated using music technology processing to create for new forms of sonic output, rendered as electro-acoustic compositions.

Mateo Monje Shefford (in)audible Sounds BA SOUND DESIGN

mateo.shefford@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

A sonic exploration into the imperceptible sounds that surround us on a daily basis. Initially designed for multi-channel surround sound, the project has been adapted to work in headphones by using binaural audio. It is comprised of 4 individual tracks with each track exploring a separate 'inaudible' sound. The first track 'Nanos' explores the sounds of the electromagnetic field. The second, 'Entropic Hydrolysis', explores the chaotic movements of water between the different states of matter. The third, 'Actinides', is named as such to embody the active resonances of metallic objects (not because the project used radioactive materials). Finally, 'Chelation', is a conglomeration of the above 3 sounds that produces a sound-walk experience.

Aira Mencinskaite + Dovile Vasiliauskaite The Healing Power of Art BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

airamnc@gmail.com dovi.vas@yahoo.com

Our work aims to convey the therapeutic benefits of art, with a focus on the concept of colours and sounds in the process of healing. The intention is to find out, how these concepts are connected to the way people signify their emotional experiences and how this works as a therapy. The project aims to discover the benefits of the therapeutic use of sounds and colours to achieve positive emotions, experiences; as well as to gain professional knowledge about the selected type of practise. The research has involved participating in relevant therapy sessions, namely art therapy and gong bath sound therapy. In both cases the theory behind these practices and the application of those theories in art practice is also examined. The aim being, through theory, experience and practice to gain a better understanding of how sound and colour function in the therapeutic setting.

Laseni Olabode Shades of Black BA Media and Communications

LNOlabode@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

This research project as an exploration of colourism in the media, the negative stigma associated with being dark skinned, and what influence media has on the use of skin lightening products. Racial discrimination has been studied widely in many sectors but something that is highly neglected is the underlying problem of skin-tone categorization, where people of the same ethnic background, in this case African/Caribbean, are put into groups of light skinned and dark skinned, which stems from an old ‘European standard’ of beauty where having lighter skin is associated with having more status, privilege and beauty. The media industry is extremely influential in the society we live in it has a very important role in the world we live in today, it can be a cause for change, and it influences our social and political view. The media is to be held accountable for the influence and beliefs of what is considered beautiful.

This project is expolring the notion of contrast or polarity, between harshness and gentle. I', expressing this concept through the use of very contrasting instruments and virtual spaces, with use of ambisonics to amplify this. This concepts will be transferred onto the short 3rd year film impasse, some melodies from the ep will appear in the film as a motif. the picure attached, insipres me for this project to as the effect of rough forests are contrasting with the gentle sky, so this effect is reproduced in nature as well.

Eduard Fadgyas Polarita' EP /Impasse Sound work — mix and soundtrack BA SOUND DESIGN

frn.imola@gmail.com www.francescoimola.com

Arianna Usai Urban vs. Rural: two realities in comparison BA FILM STUDIES

arianna.usai16@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Urban vs. Rural: which environment is considered the best to live in? Initially, this was the initial question of my project, but it resulted impossible to answer which lifestyle is the most preferable for people. The argument opened up a number of issues, like air and food quality, which needed a close scientific analysis. Therefore, I have decided to focus on how the people from my region in Italy experienced the difference between Sardinia and London. How does the people perceive these two diferrent environment? This project focuses both on the inhabitants from Sardinia who decided to move to London and the centenarians who loyally lived in the island since decades and are still very healthy. The final work will be translated in a video essay that includes interviews and footage recorded in Sardinia during my holidays back at home.

My project wants to analyse how people in off the grid communities live happier lives without the use of technology. Focusing on different communities that are, in some way, connected to or by nature – my work showcases both the discrepancies and the similarities that exist between our lives and theirs. The main goal is to highlight the idea that, despite our different lifestyles, opinions and mindsets, we are all connected by the same string of fate – we are all so deeply human.

Gabriele Jankauskaite Life in Out of Grid Communities BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

gabriela.jankauskaite@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Gabriele Jankauskaite Life in Out of Grid Communities

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Amadia Iuhas Colouring Psychology: The Superhero Genre and The Shadow Theory BA FILM STUDIES

iuhas.ammi@gmail.com

↓ Beginning with the thought that superheroes and villains are two extremes of human emotions — the light and the darkness, the good and the bad — this project tries to examine the idea that integrating one into the other would result in a better version of the same thing — the human. The goal is to explore how human emotions are showcased and heightened with the use of colour, by focusing on Carl Jung’s Shadow Theory and applying it to the superhero genre.

Roshane McField Moving Forward: Media Representations of the Cayman Islands BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

roshane04_mcfield@live.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

↑ This project explores the representations of the Cayman Islands through the lens of global media in the form of a documentary. The project looks into the history of these media represntations through popular mediums such as film, television, books, commericals in order to examine the dominant narrative. I have been specifically investigating media representation of both global finance and the toursim industry. I am to juxtapose these media representations with my own lived expereience as someone from the Cayman Islands that lives an ordinary life, a life that anyone would recognise, not one spent in a tax haven.

Yotisha Dabedeen Chinatown London through many Eyes BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

tishadabedeen@gmail.com

My final project will be based on looking into the of Chinatown London and how overtime it has been built in a way to represent the originated town seen in China and has created a look alike using cultures, traditions and presentation of the original China town. My focus is to study the clear picture of what the cultures and aspirations of the place and people in the setting looks like. Also, i will be representing festivals such as, Poon Choi festival, Moon festival and Chinese New Year in the form of pictures and colours of streets, buildings, lanterns, shops, restaurants and food.

Francesco Imola Everything You See Is In The Past BA DIGITAL ARTS

frn.imola@gmail.com www.francescoimola.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Katie Miles How do we connect to the artwork of isolation? BA FILM STUDIES

tishadabedeen@gmail.com

↓ Emotions and artwork are a joint experience, and at certain points in our lives artwork can encapsulate what or how we may be feeling. This project explores how we can portray the feeling of isolation, without the use of narration. Isolation is both a state of being and an emotion. It can overpower certain periods in our lives and it is through art, in particular filmmaking, that we can be taken back so vividly to these moments. The project will be examining a timeline of how isolation has been depicted across varying mediums of art. It will study how they have inspired each other and eventually have been translated into filmmaking techniques. The final product of this timeline of inspiration will be looking at the work of filmmakers: Michelangelo Antonioni, Sofia Coppla and Spike Jones. The end result will be a series of my own experimental films, building short narratives from the assembled research of this project.

Madeleine Bolle Interpreting Audio Narratives in the Visual Space BA FILM STUDIES

bollemiller.rin@gmail.com

This project explores the different methods of medium to medium adaptations; particularly focusing on taking a narrative in the form of audio, and translating it into a visual medium. This investigation will be using The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1979) radio show, a science-fiction based episodic-like narrative, as a case study of research. This experiment sets out to investigate how one can interpret audible elements in the visual space via a pool of participants, taking into account colours, textures and shapes in relation to how they function within the narrative and atmosphere. This information was then used to construct and observe several different versions and interpretations —separately, and how they coexist with each other.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Madeleine Bolle Interpreting Audio Narratives in the Visual Space

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Jena Butler What's for Dinner? BA FILM STUDIES

jena@thebutlercorp.com

A collection of images which address the complexity of food. Often taken for granted, food is an important cultural, economical and social factor in our day to day lives. These photos aim to better represent the feelings that are brought to the table when we eat our meals. By looking at the way other artists portray food and how the human body behaves, the artist has created their own idea of what food means to them. With artistic references to still life and subtle hints to the ridicules of food advertisements, these pictures offer a fresh perspective for our plates. The artist invites you to ask yourself the question: are our eyes bigger than our stomachs?

Joshua Cornford The Power of Nostalgia: A Step Back to the 1980's MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

joshuadmcornford@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

This project studies the relationship between nostalgic emotion and experiential marketing and considers how these factors may influence consumerism. Nostalgia is a sentimental emotion generated by a positive association with a past event or time in history. Experiential marketing, used by businesses such as Camden’s Cereal Killer Café, evokes nostalgic emotion by replicating a childhood or adolescent environment to establish a correlation between consumer and brand. In this project, I have recreated a 1980’s teenage bedroom featuring technology, furniture and various memorabilia. Within this setting I have presented my own design for a board game, which has been inspired by 80’s graphics researched through observation and content analysis. The installation aims to stimulate at least three senses, using tactile surfaces, visual and auditory stimuli. The idea behind this work is to explore how the setting enhances brand attachment to the newly created board game.

Sarah Dalande Ninga Perception BA FILM STUDIES

dalandes@hotmail.fr

Perception focuses on the ways social media and mental health attribute to the behavioural effects they have on people, in particular online content creators. The general idea, behind the research, regards the fact that individuals let their entourages dictate what they should try to physically resemble. The main aim of this project is to comprehend how the correlation between social media platforms and mental health has an impact on content creators in constructing narratives that do not correspond to their quotidian. Using photography in the form of self-portraits to show how easily perception can be manufactured, especially when it concerns the self-image or the presentation of one’s self through fabricating a forced perspective on the viewer. By editing the original product to create a version of perceived perfection that seeks to go beyond perfection itself, by ultimately doing the exact opposite, offering an exaggerated ideal of the visage and physique. The images displayed show 7 different photographs of the same subject at different editing stages.

Daniela Zaharieva AXT. BA DIGITAL ARTS

daniela.zaharieva@gmail.com

AXT. challenges how the media, music videos specifically, represent mental illnesses and aims to create a more truthful representation. With the collaboration of actor/participants I am creating short form experimental video that aims to represent anxiety through the use of variety of characters. The piece follows the generics of UK top charts music videos, whilst incorporating ethnographic and auto-ethnographic research and more factual information of mental illnesses through the stories lived by the characters. The actors used film themselves in the comfort of their own home. The actor/collaborators follow my storyboard and are encouraged to add or take away aspects which they feel would be a more accurate and embodied interpretation of a life lived with anxiety.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

→ The Great Divide of The Iron Curtain is exploring the question of how historical and political contexts have influenced the way people experienced music in the UK and USSR countries. This topic was chosen as not many people who have never experienced the consequences of the Soviet rule know about the difference and the separation of the music scene development during chosen decades. It also became apparent that not many people have compared these music scenes together before and it only felt right to do so. Through the means of creating a coffee table book and a website we will present the information found in an aesthetic, accessible and easily digestible way.

Fernanda Giardini Gomes A Sense of Community Through Online Sports Media, is it Changing? BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

f.giardini.g@hotmail.com

← ↓ This study aims to understand the influence that online sports media and social media platforms exert on sports culture as well as how they communicate with their audience. This study will be based on a quantitative primary research, that engages, through a questionnaire, with a range of participants selected to represent a diverse range of ages, ethnicities and gender. Answers from the questionnaire will be combined with information gained through secondary research in the subject area to create visual representations of the findings in the form of “art based as statistics”.

Egle Jakaite & Arturas Gomazkovas The Great Divide of The Iron Curtain BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

eglejakaite1@gmail.com gomazkovas.arturas@gmail.com ADVANCED PROJECTS

Khai Riley-La Borde How are track and field athletes utilising social media during self-isolation? BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

khai.riley.laborde@gmail.com

Joaquin Subagan & Dan Auguis Hip-Hop, Grime and Gospel: A Documentary BA FILM STUDIES

Joaquin.subagan02@gmail.com Dan09jesse@gmail.com

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Jack Bell-Hyland How sound affects emotion BA SOUND DESIGN

marek.fialka@icloud.com

This project has been designed to explore whether sound can affect a person’s emotional state. To facilitate this, four different soundscapes have been composed using both synthesised and naturally occurring recorded sounds. The emotional states that are being focused on are: anxiety, serenity, sorrow and fury. Research was undertaken in order to select the appropriate sounds that have been shown to evoke the corresponding emotional states. Consideration was then given to how best the soundscapes could be portrayed to an audience, which would aid the most immersive experience, thus giving the best results. As a consequence, virtual reality environments have been created that link to the emotional state which is trying to be induced through sound.

Andreea Olarean Advertisemnent: the world of stereotypes BA FILM STUDIES

frn.imola@gmail.com www.francescoimola.com

Now more than ever, all generations are exposed daily to an enormous quantity of advertisements from the television, to online or a wider platform such as billboards. The products in these advertisements are made more desirable by the beautiful female and male models presenting them. The models are selected to create allure especially in the opposite gender. The method creates demand and higher demand brings higher supply of not only the product, but the advertisements as well. Through this method many gender stereotypes are used, such as the housewife or the businessman, which are the most exploited ones. Therefore we are exposed to these type of advertisements for a longer period of time, which can bring its disadvantages in the society. Accordingly, this project aims to showcase how the development of adverts based on gender stereotyping influenced today's society by presenting the discrepancies in the way the role of man and woman are portrayed. Through a film essay, the project displays those engrained stereotypes and statistics of how they are still at the roots of advertisement.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Marek Fialka Exploring surround sound capabilities: could all films be mixed more immersively? BA SOUND DESIGN

marek.fialka@icloud.com

My project is mixing two different films using two different surround mixing approaches. First approach — conservative/standard, with all dialogues and important sounds being located in the front center channel. Second approach is more experimental, locating all dialogue and sound object always where it diegetically happens according to the visual. I will seek to find an answer to this question: for what types of films is the experimental approach prosperous — is it only for those where the visual side corresponds to it, or the visual side is not as important and the experimental approach can generally be used in any situations?

Margarida Gonçalves Visual Interpretations of Memory BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

frn.imola@gmail.com www.francescoimola.com

Visual Interpretations of Memory is a research and experiment led project that consists in investigating the visual outcome of memorable experiences. Exploring drawing tactics as mediums that depict how memories are perceived and seen, this project examines the representation of common everyday surroundings. The concepts of seeing something vs knowing something end up becoming an exercise itself that explores the accuracy/inaccuracy of one’s perception.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Sarah Ghdhban The Media VS Reality BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

sarahghdhban@hotmail.com

The Media VS Reality' explores the stereotypes of knife crime within the media. The topic of knife crime is very close to me due to the area I grew up in, Bethnal Green, having a rise of knife crime throughout the years. Knife crime is a topic that has not been explored thoroughly, due to the taboos surrounding it. This project looks at how the media views knife crime and the stereotypes that they enforce on the public. I was also able to gather opinions from the people that have these stereotypes enforced on them. The research gathered in 'The Media VS Reality' lead to photography being the methodology, as photographs were an amazing way of shocking and informing viewers. 'The Media VS Reality' shows the breaking of stereotypes and how we as a society should not let the news brainwash us with their prejudice. Never judge a book by its cover.

Walter Baccoli Fade Away BA SOUND DESIGN

eglejakaite1@gmail.com gomazkovas. walter.baccoli@yahoo.com

The project is the result of research and experimentation within the practice of soundscape composition. A variety of sound material extrapolated from an urban environment is just the beginning of a sonic commute that will slowly reveal itself as a journey of transformation. The opportunity to record real world sounds, retrieved from their context and modified for artistic purposes was a motivation to explore and consequentially gain awareness and understanding of the contemporary urban soundscape. Two distant worlds will collide and merge sonically in a way that it won’t be possible to discern one from the other.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Isaiah John Soundtrack / EP (4 Instrumentals) BA SOUND DESIGN

ijohn@elam.co.uk

My project explores the effect Grime music has on a young male from South East London. My project is about Grime in particular and how it has influenced mine and many other artists/musicians life. I have done this by creating a well documented portfolio which explores Grime music in depth and the effect it has had on various different artists from South London. I also produced a 4 track Instrumental EP which infuses my research sonically and each Instrumental tells its own story melodically. Due to COVID-19 I had to change the way my project would be heard and initially it was supposed to be on a surround sound system which would be played out however now the I will be able to gather audience reactions by asking them to use headphones to experience my project.

Cameron Cort Modern Autobiography BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

frn.imola@gmail.com cameroncort@comcast.net

This documentary project explores the impact of social media on our daily lives as a way for documentation and how it acts as a tool for autobiography in our modern, digital world. Since the inception of social media, there have been different tools embedded in social media interfaces to document one's life. This documentary discusses these interfaces, along with the history of social media and how it has developed to allow people to tell their stories. It also investigates our current social media landscape, and how today, social media platforms are being used by everyday people to tell the stories of how they are surviving and connecting with others in this unprecedented time.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Ryan Nguyen Illusion & Reality BA DIGITAL ARTS

ryanhai.nguyen@hotmail.com

Our reliability on our sensory features has played a huge role in bringing us information but to what extent does that bring us the 'right' information? Do we really know what we perceive as reality? As this is a philosophical topic, I focus on the use of our perception in distinguishing illusion from reality.

Toby Setters Can You Recite Poetry Without Words BA SOUND DESIGN

setterstoby@gmail.com

Poetry and sound have always worked together to further each form and enhance the narrative and story telling abilities that each possess. However sound usually takes a back seat to poetry, allowing the words of the poem drive the piece. This project strives to see if sound itself can recite back a poem without using language as a form of communication. This five track EP explores this relationship and attempts to prove sounds equal story telling abilities.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

Masarra Kahwaji Irreplaceable MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

masarrakahwaji@gmail.com

This project delves into the theme of identity, looking at the ways valuable or cherished objects of ours can reflect an aspect of who we are. Why do we surround ourselves with personal, familiar objects that are deemed valuable or important to us; and what can they come to represent in terms of identity for the person in question? Ten participants have provided an image of one of their cherished possessions and explained what the nature of their attachment to the object is. Both the photograph and the explanation are displayed.

ADVANCED PROJECTS

BA (Hons) Sound Design SOUND DESIGN develops creativity, through exploring the ideas, techniques and skills needed for work in contemporary post-production sound and the wider creative industries. Through creative practice and critical thinking, students discover how to record, edit, critique, generate and compose sound. Moving fluidly between the worlds of music and sound, they develop a broad understanding of the role of sound in a diversity of creative practice and contemporary life. By working with fellow students from across our creative portfolio, Sound Design students apply individual knowledge and share ideas in a supportive environment. In this way, students build experience in the collaborative and teamworking skills that underpin the creative industries. Popular career trajectories for Sound Design graduates include working with sound through film, television, computer games, music production, radio advertising, theatre, virtual reality and composition.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

Dissertations WRITING A DISSERTATION at the final year of their studies provides an opportunity to students to apply their knowledge and understanding acquired during the taught courses to investigate a specific topic related to their field of study. The dissertation also is a chance to demonstrate research and analytical skills in the form of a substantial written project, which can support future studies and/or professional preparation. The course is shared between BA (Hons) Media and Communications, BA (Hons) Films Studies and BA (Hons) Film and Television Production students.

Mihaela-Elena Ungurianu Is marketing via images on Instagram influencing young adults choices? BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

Rohey Jaiteh Investigating Alcohol, Tobacco, Verbal and Relational Aggression Content in the ITV2 Reality Show 'Love Island' and the Harmful Effects on Adolescents' viewers

d.deniisaaa@yahoo.com

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

r.jaiteh35@hotmail.com

In the last decade, it is more than obvious that visual art and marketing have developed in such a way that we intersect with it at every step. Either at the underground station, where there are exposed huge advertising images, or on the bus, but most often on social networks. An overused social network, based on visual art, Instagram, has become an empire of photography, even if at the time of its appearance it was an application created for the purpose of photography 'on the go'. Starting from this premise that Instagram has focused in one app the creativity of people around the world, and the fact that technology evolution have helped that, this dissertation investigates whether image marketing that takes place on Instagram influences the decisions of young people, which are prone to being vulnerable and influential. Also, in order to reach the final result, the emphasis will be on what means visual communication, visual and aesthetic art, the importance and contribution of mobile phones in this aesthetic, and its influence on young people. At the same time, the ease with which young people tend to choose aesthetics was evaluated, and if this makes them an easy target for today's companies and brands. If Instagram is a way of visual communication and young people are easy to influence, it also means that companies find this platform as a tool for marketing and sales, so the fact that Instagram has changed and improved marketing strategies is also a problem that is discussed in this dissertation. For this, an answer was found through a questionnaire applied to several 50 people, mostly ages 18-30 years old, who also have an account on this platform and use it frequently to observe and have an opinion on some of these topics. With the help of content analysis and an interview, it was investigated whether there is any common visual language in Instagram marketing strategies and whether content creators can be considered a link between companies/brands and young people. As a conclusion of what is going to be demonstrated, is that visual communication is what marketers prefer to use because we are dominated by aesthetics and visual art and technology, which makes Instagram a more than suitable platform to sell, especially with the young audience longing for recommendations from content creators.

DISSERTATIONS

This study investigates the depiction of tobacco, alcohol, verbal and relational aggression content in the reality TV programme Love Island. The study also examines the potential effects that observing this content can have on adolescent viewers. In the first part of the study, discourse analysis was used to examine 30 Tweets made concerning the third series of Love Island. In the second part of the research, content analysis was used to code and record a 1-min interval of tobacco, alcohol, verbal and relational aggression content in Series 3 of 'Love Island' (21 episodes). The display of alcohol and tobacco use, implied use, tobacco/alcohol reference, paraphernalia and branding was recorded. The type of aggression was recorded as either relational or verbal. The reward gained for the aggressor for the behaviour was also examined. The discourse analysis suggested that displays of tobacco, alcohol and relational aggression was the most frequent content shown on the show. The content analysis demonstrated that alcohol and tobacco were shown most frequently in the episodes. The analysis of the series also expressed that relational aggression was also common. A high frequency of tobacco and alcohol content could be a potential issue for viewers under the age 18 as the legal age for the consumption of alcohol and tobacco is 18+. The overall conclusion of this study was that alcohol, tobacco content, including branding and reational aggression was highly prevalent in the ITV2 reality TV show 'Love Island' Series 3. As a result, this study expresses that the current alcohol and tobacco regulation is lacking in its ability to protect young viewers from such content. The study also highlighted that verbal and relational aggression were frequently depicted in Love Island's third series. However, relational aggression was found to be more frequent in the series. As a result, stricter regulations should be put in place to ensure that the safety of all viewers and contestants are regulated.

Megan Fisher An exploration of sexual violence in American media: How has the representation of these issues progressed over 30 years? BA FILM STUDIES

Gabriela Popova The effect of the popular Netflix series 13 Reasons Why: A study comparing the positive and negative influence of the series over two different age groups (18-25 years and 26-35 years.)

meganc.fisher@hotmail.com

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

frn.imola@gmail.com www.francescoimola.com

In the decades following the abandonment of cinematic censorship in the late 1960s, sexual violence has saturated the American film industry inciting much debate and controversy. Though the 1970s and 80s are celebrated for their daring cinema, these decades created the blueprints for “problematic” representations of sexual violence that exist today. These representations have since leaked from cinema and permeate all forms of American media, gaining attention from audiences, critics and scholars alike. This study explores how representations of sexual violence have progressed since the 1980s as well as their wider impact in a comparative study of two case studies created 30 years apart. Expanding on the work of film scholars, who suggest representations of sexual violence are coded with culturally and socially impactful messages, this study utilises pre-existing theories, such as Laura Melvey’s ‘male gaze’ to demonstrate that media containing sexual violence shapes and influences wider frameworks of thinking that surround rape and sexual assault. Focusing equally on content and critical reception this dissertation illuminates how representations of sexual violence inform and are informed by existing cultural attitudes within their historical context; illustrating that representations of sexual violence can perpetuate, challenge, refute or maintain myths and misconceptions about sexual violence. This dissertation furthers this field of study by by focusing on the progression of such issues and the wider implications of their representations.

This research investigates the effect of the popular Netflix series 13 Reasons Why in terms of positive and negative influence over two age groups (18 to 25 and 26 to 35 years). Studying viewers’ perceptions of the series is important in order to understand how different age groups perceive the show and whether there is a significant difference and to what extent. Furthermore, this mixed method study aimed to identify whether 13 Reasons Why romanticises suicide according to the two age groups investigated as well as suggest more appropriate ways of presenting serious real-life issues as the ones portrayed in the series. The research showed that there is a difference in the perception of suicide ideation between the two age groups. Age group 18 to 25 is more prone to believing that the series romanticises suicide in comparison to age group 26 to 35. Interestingly, there was no significant difference established in terms of the influence of 13 Reasons Why over the two age groups which was in fact, largely positive.

Isabel Christian Freelancing in Film and TV: Investigating the resons for and against pursuing freelance and evaluating whether the risks are too great

Lucy McCluskey How significant is Netflix in influencing audience’s television content choice?

BA FILM AND TV

mccluskeylucy@gmail.com

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

isabelchristian16@gmail.com

Since 2008 freelance based labour has been on the rise within the creative industries, with more and more individuals perusing this type of career. There are many risks when pursuing a career as a freelancer; risks relating to financial stability, policies and regulations for workers and your professional reputation. These areas of risk I will be delving into further by conducting interviews and surveys. This should then give me a clear understanding into the opinions of what individuals working within the creative industries think about freelance. I will be comparing a freelance career against a career of working within a company and will be analysing whether freelance has greater risks in comparison. I will be asking the question as to whether freelance is a stable career choice and whether there is truly more freedom. By doing all of this, I hope to be able to answer my question as to whether freelance is too great of a risk overall and if it is a stable career choice.

DISSERTATIONS

With huge worldwide success and a household name, Netflix continues to cultivate and shape the film and television industry. This study explores how significant Netflix is in influencing audience’s content choices. It looks at how technological advancements in algorithms and devices aid in the choices Netflix users make. Results from a questionnaire have been used to establish Netflix’s influential position within society and Netflix’s effect on binge-watching culture. The consumption of films and television series are compared, alongside ‘Netflix Originals’ to determine what content is being watched and therefore how significant Netflix is in influencing its users and their choices. Although Netflix is a key streaming service, both new and old competitors, Sky TV and Disney+, continue to battle for a significant place within contemporary society. So, just how influential is Netflix today?

James Descutido Independant Asian Filmmakers: How are Asian minorities represented in contemporary American Independent Films compared to Hollywood Blockbusters?

Yasmin Mohmed What Role Does Mainstream Media Play in Promoting Populism and Fear Regarding the Recent EU Refugee Crisis and Muslim Immigration in the UK?

BA FILM AND TV

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

jamesdescutido@outlook.com

ym5887a@gmail.com

Throughout the history of cinema, portrayals of Asian minorities in Hollywood blockbusters have typically centered around negative and stereotypical caricatures, from the emasculate Asian nerd to the hyper-violent kung fu master. These Hollywood tropes have become a topic of controversy due to the lack of realistic representation of Asian-Americans in film and media. This dissertation will explore the rise of independent Asian filmmakers within the past decade and how they portray Asian minorities in a realistic and authentic manner. By using deep contextual analysis and reception studies on my chosen case studies, I will analyse the portrayal of Asian characters in contemporary “AsianAmerican” independent films compared to the traditional Hollywood blockbuster. In addition, I will also examine why these upcoming Asian filmmakers choose to portray their characters in the way that they have, touching on the theme of Asian identity within the realm of film.

The sensationalistic headlines that have illuminated the controversy surrounding UK immigration, EU refugees and Brexit over the past five years are indicative of a socio-political rift that has emerged between right and left-wing activists. As newspapers like The Daily Mail and the Daily Express have staunchly and consistently supported the right-wing, nationalist, populist agenda, their reporting tactics have ranged from fearmongering to counter-factual to sensational to objective. Alternatively, other newspapers affiliated with left-wing, liberal political parties like The Guardian have countered these claims, championing more positive insights and reports regarding options for resolving the UK refugee crisis more humanely. As a result of these biases, UK newsreaders are confronted with a crisis of attention: where do they place their trust, who is more credible, and what headlines are to be believed? This study critically compares the tactical presentation of discursive news by these three mainstream newspapers during the 2015 EU refugee crisis to assess the impacts of nationalist and populist agenda setting on fear and sentiment across the UK readership. Through a comparative content analysis, the evidence reveals a conceptual and discursive distinction between newspaper coverage of these incendiary events. The power of mainstream media to influence and shape public sentiment suggests a persistent and potentially volatile misuse of the central purpose of an objective mainstream media: sociopolitical accountability.

Francesca New How important are symbols in Bong Joon-Ho's 'Parasite' & 'The Host' to portray the negetive effects of capitalism?

Nathan Gray Video Games and Late Stage Capitalism: An Insight into the Ethics of Monetisation Practices

BA FILM AND TV

nathan27gr@gmail.com

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

francescanew99@gmail.com

This dissertation is a study to see what details and symbols are contained in the films 'Parasite' (2019) and 'The Host' (2006). How do these symbols and details communicate the themes of the films to the audience? I will be analysing two South Korean films directed by Bong Joon-Ho, who is known for using consistent symbolism in his films. The themes i will be focusing on are the negative effects of capitalism, which Bong has emphasised in interviews, and in the plots of his films. This is why I have chosen the films 'Parasite' (2019) and 'The Host' (2006). Both of these films plots are about the negative effects of capitalism in South Korea and they carry out narrative realisations that show experiences of the rich and the poor, and how different their mindsets are to everyday life.

DISSERTATIONS

As one of the fastest growing industries today, video games are prevalent in the cultural zeitgeist from the single-player solitary experiences to large scale multiplayer games. With the rise of e-sports and live service games, the routes of monetisation have expanded exponentially in recent years; originally having a one-time payment to acquire the game, the industry has largely shifted to subscription-based services for an unending revenue stream. This paper looks at the ethical implications of this shift through close content analysis, comparing the strategies used for monetisation today with cultural and political theorists such as Marx, Jameson and Srnicek, as well as analysing industry spokespeople to provide insight into the business and socioeconomic aspects in the industry, with specific case studies looking at two of the largest companies — Electronic Arts and Bethesda. These theories largely look at the implications of late-stage capitalism and post-modernism within the industry, noting that in the age of the digital, these business practices are inevitable due to the capitalist notion that there is always a profit margin to be improved. Comparing these classical theories with statements from these video-game goliaths, the research finds that some practices used have the potential to be at least unfavourable to the consumer and at worst, extremely predatory.

James Otto Does perceived historical accuracy and authenticity contribute to immersion in video games and have an effect on the way people play them?

Alaur Rahman To what extent have in-game non-functional cosmetics impacted the postmodern era of the gaming industry, as well as its consumers?

BA MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

james_otto@live.co.uk

alaur482@gmail.com

The study of non-functional in-game cosmetics is an area in an infantile state; its impact is yet to be extensively explored. Free-to-play games such as ‘Fortnite’ are able to gain a large portion of their exponential growth through the production of these types of cosmetics. This study explores the extent of impact non-functional in-game cosmetics have had on the video-game industry, as well as its consumers. It will observe the varying areas of the video-game industry, critically analysing what kind of impact they have had in each relevant sub-sector, and will determine the value non-functional in-game cosmetics have to the video-game industry and its consumers. Both quantitative and qualitative data was gathered from 114 participants of a survey to determine the extent of impact it has had. There will also be a use of case studies of the impact within the different communities of video-games to validate the data and serve as a foundation to build from. Non-functional in-game cosmetics have been around for just over fifteen years with the introduction through the game ‘Second Life (2003), yet the impact it has had has been exponential. This study will dive into how they have become a staple in the industry, and why it will continue to impact the industry and its consumers.

Svetlana Matkovska Post #MeToo in Independent Cinema: A Contemporary Representation of Women BA Film Studies

Elliott Knight How has female representation developed within film noir, when directly compared to original examples ? BA Film and TV

matkovskasvetlana@gmail.com

knight.elliott@yahoo.com

This dissertation is an investigation into the contemporary representation of women in independent cinema; an era deemed ‘Fourth Wave Feminism’ (Grady, 2018). This era is the direct result of a cultural shift that encompasses a rise in female representation in top-grossing Hollywood films, social media usage for political discourse and the creation of such movements as #MeToo and Time’s Up. This dissertation is structured around a close reading of Laura Mulvey’s 1975 article, ‘Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema’, an assessment still regarded as fundamental in feminist film theory. Along with a concise exploration of the cultural landscape, I analyse the following three contemporary female-led independent films: Climax (2018), Suspiria (2018), and Midsommar (2019). All three films can be regarded as ‘radical’ in content and form according to Mulvey’s theory, as well as part of the psychological horror genre. This study investigates Mulvey’s psycho- analytic theory in a modern cinema context, allowing for a better understanding of the impact pioneering movements such as #MeToo and Time’s Up have had on the representations of women in cinema. Ultimately, the findings indicate the selected films seek to challenge the viewer’s perception of the female lead and supporting female characters. Themes of sex, violence and trauma are explored in order to critique society’s attitude towards women and women’s issues. The female leads aren’t solely depicted as favourable in support of women and to pander to the female audience; instead the protagonists are complex and flawed individuals, providing a multidimensional and realistic representation of women.

A study into how female characters have developed when comparing original film noir examples with more contemporary examples. This study will include the social and political development of how women have fought for equal rights within modern society, this will be considered when analysing the development of the female characters within the noir genre. The characters will be closely analysed regarding their visual representation aswell as dialogue and sound. This evidence will be compared to older examples of film noir in order to understand how female character representation has developed since the origins of film noir.

DISSERTATIONS

MA Media and Creative Cultures AN INTERDISCIPLINARY INTERNATIONAL DEGREE that encourages interrogations of contemporary media and cultural theories, arts, technologies and politics in an expanded field. Students specialise in research methods for creative disciplines, aesthetic economy, subcultures, digital activism, race, gender, and class through exploring themes of identity, power, aesthetics and creation of meaning in contemporary media cultures. The programme produces graduates with informed approaches to communications and media to enter international creative industries, including but not limited to museums and festivals sector, journalism and cultural charities, creative writing and curation, research analytics and marketing, fashion and arts, as well as provides clear pathway to further research degrees. “I encourage all to see this programme as a creative intellectual lab with an absolute perfect match between theoretical and practical skills, that reflects the demands of the new generation and advances the ways of creative mentorship and supervision within higher education in the UK and beyond ” Dr Vlad Strukov, Associate Professor in Media, University of Leeds, Curator of Research at Garage Museum of Contemporary Art

MA Digital Arts MA DIGITAL ARTS builds upon the foundations Digital Art, Fine Art, Sound Design, Film, Television, VFX, Graphic Design, Animation and Media Studies. At the core of the programme is an interdisciplinary approach which utilises the School of Design’s facilities and staff from across a variety of contemporary creative fields. Each student is encouraged to examine and explore their individual practice from diverse viewpoints which is challenged through studio based practice, visiting artist lectures and group critique. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in a global economy where boundaries between creativity and technology are increasingly fluid. Modules are designed to encourage the development of personal specialisms through a diverse range of art practices. Graduates will be ready to enter a wide range of artistic fields and international organisations, while making a contribution to the production of new aesthetics and future uses of creative technologies.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

MSc Film Production OUR FILM PRODUCTION MSC helps you to develop a critical and practical approach to production workflows, digital film technology, and the creative practices involved in film production. This degree allows you to grow your creative abilities to a high professional standard. The MSc route focusses on the creative use of filmmaking technology, exploring techniques aiding storytelling and emotional engagement. This includes cinematography and editing, while also incorporating sections on production practice and film research. Optional courses are directing, screen writing and sound design. Skills learnt on these courses are then deployed in a final project. Film production is an increasingly dynamic sector and both programmes highlight the importance of practicebased research and film projects. They also touch on new technologies and how these are impacting professional practice. The University has well-resourced studios and students have access to high-end, industry standard digital camera equipment including: Canon, Sony, RED, and Arri Alexa systems. They also benefit from a full personal Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and will have access to edit and animation suites running Avid Media Composer, Black Magic Design Da Vinci Resolve and Nuke. These programmes also offer Arri Accredited Training.

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MA Film Production OUR FILM PRODUCTION MA helps students develop a practical and critical approach to the creative practices of film development and production, and their relationship refine a critical approach to creativity in areas such as writing, directing, and producing. There are a range of courses including Cinematography, Production Practice, the Film Research Workshop, Film Screenwriting and Directing Screen Performance, and students select from the following options: Emerging Cinematography Practices, Sound Design and Editing. Skills learnt on these courses are then deployed in a final project.

BA (HONS) GRAPHIC + DIGITAL DESIGN

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School of Design Introduction Dr BenzProfessor Kotzen Stephen Kennedy

School Research Design +of Enterprise

Research and Enterprise Head of School Lead

The creation of the School of Design in August 2018 has created opportunities for intradisciplinary as well inter and multi-disciplinary research and other collaborations across the School, the University and the wider world. Building on the multitude of disciplines that the enthusiastic and talented staff bring to research, we are providing opportunities to grow research and enterprise, creating our mark, fashioning centres of excellence in a variety of fields encompassing the theoretical, technological, scientific and the creative. We now have 3 research groups within the School including DARE (Digital Arts Research and Enterprise), INTENT RG (Integrated Nature and Technology Research Group) and the Captivate: Spatial Modelling Research Group. Whilst DARE focuses on the main design areas of the School, INTENT concentrates on the integration of technological solutions with nature based solutions in the built environment and Captivate utilises digital above and below ground technologies to reveal every aspect of the world in great detail, starting in our home area of the World Heritage Site of Historical Greenwich and particularly in Greenwich Park. Whilst preparing for the School of Design’s submission to the Research England Framework 2021 (REF 2021) it is abundantly clear that our research has the significance, originality and rigour that Research England desires and the social, environmental and economic impacts that will make the world and the lives of people better, healthier, more sustainable and even more enjoyable and happier. Our REF submission, brings together an abundance of high quality 3* and 4*outputs which illustrates the rich, broad vein of research activities within the School ranging from practice-based research, to experimental scientific and theoretical studies. Our research carries us across European and continental boundaries, where we are involved in, for example, the INTERREG ‘EYES — Empowering Youth through Entrepreneurial Skills’ project. With institutions in Switzerland, Slovenia and Spain we are preparing the first undergraduate course in aquaponics (Aqua@teach). In response to the Grenfell tragedy, we are working with the University’s Fire Safety Engineering Group on living walls and how these can remain an asset to the built environment whilst most importantly to minimise the risk of fire. Other long term and important research areas include ‘Diversity and Inclusivity by Design’, the ‘Internet of Bodies ‘specialising in the future human, body responsive technologies and immersive experiences’ and the series of ‘Smashfest’ festivals focusing on innovative methods in providing ‘equality, diversity and Inclusion in STEM and Arts education and careers’. Our research also has significant penetration in sound, music and cutting edge technologies with annual conferences in exploring the moving image and sound and in the ‘Loudspeaker Orchestra’ sessions exploring immersive multi-channel sound design and sonic art. We are delighted with the success of our PhD students over the last year (Dr. Chris Nunn, Dr. Mohammad Sakikhalis, Dr. Melissa Sterry, Dr. Julie Watkins and Dr. Russel Duke and the growth in our postgraduate MPhil and PhD research.

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