Fact or fiction: does film re-write history? History Film Season 2012
Friday, 27 January 2012
A still from the film 'Henry V', the first film in the season
'Our aim is to open a dialogue between film, historians and the general public, exploring the relationship between film and how history has been depicted for public viewing.'
How do film-makers capture the past for the big screen? Is it possible to be historically accurate whilst engaging with a modern day audience? These are just two of the questions to be posed during the Department of History's inaugural historical film season.
In collaboration with Reading Film Theatre, the Department is set to showcase four thought-provoking, historical films from a range of genres, beginning with Kenneth Branagh's powerful adaptation of William Shakespeare's Henry V on Wednesday 1 February. Then over the coming weeks, staff, students and the general public can enjoy the 2006 adaptation of The Magic Flute, Julian Temple's The Filth and the Fury and Gus Van Sant's Milk.
Organiser Dr Emma Vickers, from the Department of History, said: "Our aim is to open a dialogue between film, historians and the general public, exploring the relationship between film and how history has been depicted for public viewing. Each screening will begin with an introduction from one of our leading academics, where we will discuss the film's historical context, how history has been captured for a general audience and give reflections on the historical accuracy of the film.
"We have chosen these historically retrospective works from four different genres, (a play, an opera, a documentary and a contemporary biopic), for their ground-breaking style, and their ability to capture the imagination. Following the screening, we really want to hear from our audience to spark a lively debate about popular film's ability to educate and engage the general public about important moments in history."
View the full film listing on the Department of History's website >>>
Tickets cost £6 for non-members and £4.50 for students, RFT members and concessions.
All films will be screened by the Reading Film Theatre in Palmer Building, Theatre G10, Whiteknights campus, and start at 7pm.