Gender, Power and Violence

Course focus and approach:  

The course explores the relationships between gender, power, and violence through cinema and audiovisual media from the theoretical perspective of Feminist Film Studies and the practical approach of creation.

Course description:  

How is the representation of gender-based violence (GBV) on screen connected to both the public and private spheres? To what extent do audiovisual creators bear responsibility for reinforcing or challenging these connections? Can gender inequality be reimagined by creating an audiovisual space where new gender dynamics exist beyond the frameworks of power and violence?

The #MeToo era has broadened the scope of GBV representation on screen. Today, film and television increasingly offer audiovisual narratives that explore the complexity of GBV from an intersectional perspective, shedding light on the various forms of violence embedded in power structures. At the same time, these narratives aim to center victims’ experiences while avoiding stereotypes and re-victimization, amplifying their voices in a way that fosters understanding and awareness.

This course examines GBV representations in film and television, tracing a spectrum from unconscious and homogeneous portrayals shaped by patriarchal perspectives to more conscious and nuanced depictions informed by feminist viewpoints. Additionally, the course provides a creative space for students to critically engage with audiovisual language, exploring its potential to redefine and reimagine gender relationships. 

Learning objectives:  

At the end of the course, students:

● Will be able to understand how gender-based violence (GBV) has historically been portrayed on screen from a patriarchal perspective.

● Will be able to identify biases in the representations of GBV in film and television.

● Will be able to understand the complexity of GBV portrayals on screen from a feminist and intersectional perspective (gender/sexuality, race/ethnicity, class, etc.).

● Will be able to apply key concepts related to GBV in the audiovisual creation process.