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Scandinavian Film and Television

Eva Novrup Redvall

In many ways Scandinavian film and television is a global cultural brand, connected with and exporting some of the cultural and social values connected to a liberal and progressive welfare society. This course deals with the social, institutional and cultural background of film and television in Scandinavia and in a broader European and global context.

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Syllabus

Contemporary Scandinavian Film and TV Culture and Dreyer's Classical Cinema
This module consists of two lessons. The first lesson offers an introduction to main trends in the contemporary Scandinavian film and television culture, focusing – among other things – on how the national film and television cultures relate to ideas of the welfare state. The module also addresses the international impact of film and television from Scandinavia. The second lesson deals with the early years of cinema in Scandinavia and the work of the Danish director Carl Th. Dreyer, from a silent film classic such as 'The Passion of Joan of Arc' to the sound film era.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the social, institutional, and cultural background of film and television in Scandinavia and in a broader European and global context
Examines the contemporary Scandinavian film and television culture, addressing its connection to the liberal and progressive welfare society
Taught by Eva Novrup Redvall, a recognized expert in Scandinavian film and television
Analyzes the international impact of Scandinavian film and television, exploring its contributions to global cultural trends
Focuses on the early years of cinema in Scandinavia and the work of Carl Th. Dreyer, providing insights into the evolution of Scandinavian filmmaking
Provides a comprehensive overview of Ingmar Bergman's acclaimed films, examining their themes, influences, and significance in modern art cinema
Offers an in-depth analysis of Lars von Trier's renowned films and ideas, exploring his impact on the international film landscape
Examines the main tendencies and 'auteurs' of the Scandinavian new wave cinema, providing insights into this influential movement
Delves into the award-winning heritage films and harsh stories that characterize Scandinavian art film and social drama after 1990, reflecting the complexities of contemporary Scandinavian society
Traces the evolution of Scandinavian documentary filmmaking, from the early pioneers to the contemporary digital era, highlighting its global impact
Explores the main tendencies in Scandinavian television drama, discussing the shift from early notions to contemporary innovations that have gained international recognition
Examines the rise of 'Nordic Noir' and the impact of digital technologies on Scandinavian television drama, highlighting the global reach of these productions

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Reviews summary

Insightful look at scandinavian film & tv

According to learners, this course provides an insightful and comprehensive overview of Scandinavian film and television, tracing its history and cultural context from early cinema through modern trends like Nordic Noir. Many appreciate the depth of content and the focus on key directors and movements. However, it's important to note that the core lectures were filmed in 2014, meaning very recent developments are not covered in the main material, although supplementary resources are provided for updates. Students should also be prepared to independently access the films and shows discussed, which can sometimes be challenging depending on availability.
Additional links help bridge the time gap.
"The links provided about more recent developments were very helpful."
"Glad they included resources to update the older lecture material."
"The extra links helped fill in the gaps left by the 2014 lectures."
Excellent coverage of influential directors.
"The modules on Bergman and Lars von Trier were particularly insightful."
"Appreciated the deep dives into iconic filmmakers' works."
"Gave me a much better understanding of these important directors' styles and influence."
"The analysis of individual films was well done."
Offers strong insights into history and culture.
"Gained a really good understanding of the history and cultural context behind Scandinavian film and TV."
"The course content provides a comprehensive look at significant periods and movements."
"It gives you a solid foundation for understanding why Scandinavian productions are the way they are."
"I learned so much about the relationship between film, TV, and the welfare state."
Need to find and watch films/shows independently.
"Be prepared to search for the required films and TV series, they aren't always easy to find."
"Accessing all the discussed media was the biggest challenge for me."
"Wish there were more readily available links or resources for viewing the content."
"I had to subscribe to various streaming services to watch everything mentioned."
Main lectures filmed in 2014, not current.
"The lectures are engaging, but it's clear they were recorded a while ago, missing recent hits."
"Would have loved coverage of shows and films released after 2014."
"Needed to find external information for the most current trends in Nordic media."
"The note about the lectures being from 2014 is crucial; much has happened since."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Scandinavian Film and Television with these activities:
Review basic film analysis concepts and terminology
Refreshes foundational knowledge and terminology essential for engaging with Scandinavian film analysis.
Browse courses on Film Analysis
Show steps
  • Revisit key concepts such as mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing, and sound design
  • Practice applying these concepts to analyze short film clips or sequences
Read 'Nordic Film: Cinema and Society' by Lars Gustafsson & John Sundholm
Provides foundational knowledge on the social and cultural context of Scandinavian cinema.
View Historical Dictionary of Scandinavian Cinema... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Review the introduction and chapter on 'The National Cinema'
  • Read the chapters on 'The Golden Age of Scandinavian Cinema' and 'Post-War Cinema'
Participate in a group discussion on the role of women in Scandinavian cinema
Fosters critical engagement and encourages diverse perspectives on a significant theme in Scandinavian cinema.
Show steps
  • Prepare by reading articles or watching films that explore the representation of women in Scandinavian cinema
  • Join a peer discussion group and share insights, opinions, and evidence from your research
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Watch and analyze 'The Seventh Seal' (1957) by Ingmar Bergman
Strengthens understanding of Bergman's cinematic style and themes through a close examination of one of his masterworks.
Show steps
  • Watch the film and take notes on the cinematography, symbolism, and dialogue
  • Read critical essays or reviews on the film to gain different perspectives
Compare and contrast the directorial styles of Lars von Trier and Ingmar Bergman
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills by examining the unique approaches of two renowned Scandinavian directors.
Show steps
  • Choose three films from each director and compare their visual aesthetics, narrative techniques, and themes
  • Write a comparative essay highlighting the similarities and differences between their styles
Write a blog post analyzing a recent Scandinavian film or TV series
Strengthens writing and critical thinking skills while fostering engagement with contemporary Scandinavian film and TV.
Show steps
  • Choose a recent Scandinavian film or TV series that resonates with you
  • Analyze the film or series in terms of its narrative, characters, themes, and cultural context
  • Write a well-structured and engaging blog post that presents your analysis and insights
Design a poster for a Scandinavian film festival
Applies knowledge of Scandinavian cinema and principles of marketing to create a visually impactful promotional piece.
Show steps
  • Research different Scandinavian film posters and identify their common elements
  • Choose a representative image or scene from a Scandinavian film and create a visually striking composition
  • Incorporate relevant text and design elements to communicate the festival's theme and identity
Contribute to an online database of Scandinavian film data
Provides practical experience in data management and contributes to a valuable resource for Scandinavian film research.
Show steps
  • Locate an established online database of Scandinavian film information
  • Gather relevant data from reliable sources and prepare it for submission
  • Contact the database maintainers and follow their submission guidelines

Career center

Learners who complete Scandinavian Film and Television will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Media Studies Professor
A Media Studies Professor teaches courses in media studies, film, and television at a college or university. They research, write, and publish articles and books on media-related topics. This course can provide Media Studies Professors with a deeper understanding of Scandinavian cinema and its place in global media culture. This knowledge can help them teach their students about the region's rich cinematic tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Media Studies Professor
Film and Television Archivist
A Film and Television Archivist preserves and catalogues film and television materials. They work in archives, libraries, and museums to ensure that these materials are available for future generations. This course can provide Film and Television Archivists with a deeper understanding of Scandinavian cinema and its place in global film history. This knowledge can help them preserve and catalogue Scandinavian film materials in a way that is consistent with the region's cinematic traditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film and Television Archivist
Film Historian
A Film Historian researches, analyzes, and writes about the history of film. They may work in academia, museums, or archives. This course can provide Film Historians with a deeper understanding of Scandinavian cinema and its place in global film history.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film Historian
Writer
A Writer creates written content for a variety of purposes, including books, articles, scripts, and speeches. They may work as journalists, novelists, poets, or in other writing-related fields. This course may be useful for Writers who want to learn more about the history and development of Scandinavian literature. This knowledge can help them create written content that is influenced by or inspired by the region's rich literary tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer
Film Critic
A Film Critic writes reviews and articles about films for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other publications. They provide their opinions on the film's quality, acting, directing, and other aspects. This course can provide Film Critics with a deeper understanding of Scandinavian cinema and the cultural and social context in which it is produced. This can help them write more informed and insightful reviews.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film Critic
Screenwriter
A Screenwriter writes the screenplay for a film or television show. They work with directors, producers, and other creatives to develop the story and characters. This course may be useful for Screenwriters who want to learn more about the history and techniques of Scandinavian filmmaking. This knowledge can help them write scripts that are influenced by or inspired by the region's rich cinematic tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Screenwriter
Film Editor
A Film Editor assembles and edits raw footage into a finished film or video. They work closely with the director to realize the film's vision. This course may be useful for Film Editors who want to learn more about the history and techniques of Scandinavian filmmaking. This knowledge can help them edit films in a way that is consistent with the region's cinematic traditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film Editor
Television Writer
A Television Writer writes the scripts for television shows. They work with directors, producers, and other creatives to develop the story and characters. This course may be useful for Television Writers who want to learn more about the history and techniques of Scandinavian television writing. This knowledge can help them write scripts that are influenced by or inspired by the region's rich television tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Television Writer
Video Editor
A Video Editor assembles and edits raw footage into a finished video. They work closely with directors, producers, and other creatives to realize the video's vision. This course may be useful for Video Editors who want to learn more about the history and techniques of Scandinavian filmmaking. This knowledge can help them edit videos in a way that is consistent with the region's cinematic traditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Video Editor
Television Producer
A Television Producer is responsible for the financial and logistical aspects of a television production. They work with investors, distributors, and other crew members to ensure that the show is made on time and within budget. This course may be useful for Television Producers who want to learn more about the business and legal aspects of Scandinavian television production. This knowledge can help them make informed decisions about television production and distribution.
See salaries and explore the career path for Television Producer
Film Producer
A Film Producer is responsible for the financial and logistical aspects of a film production. They work with investors, distributors, and other crew members to ensure that the film is made on time and within budget. This course may be useful for Film Producers who want to learn more about the business and legal aspects of Scandinavian filmmaking. This knowledge can help them make informed decisions about film production and distribution.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film Producer
Visual Effects Artist
A Visual Effects Artist creates and manipulates digital images for film, television, and video games. They work with directors, producers, and other creatives to bring their vision to life. This course may be useful for Visual Effects Artists who want to learn more about the history and development of Scandinavian cinema. This knowledge can help them create visual effects that are influenced by or inspired by the region's rich cinematic tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Effects Artist
Documentary Filmmaker
A Documentary Filmmaker researches, writes, shoots, and edits documentaries for television, film, or the web. Documentaries present real events, people, or issues in a non-fictional manner and often use interviews, archival footage, and narration. This course may be useful for building a strong foundation in the history and social context of Scandinavian film, which can help Documentary Filmmakers understand and portray the culture and values of the region.
See salaries and explore the career path for Documentary Filmmaker
Television Director
A Television Director is responsible for the artistic and creative vision of a television show. They work with actors, crew members, and other creatives to bring their vision to life. This course may be useful for Television Directors who want to learn more about the history and development of Scandinavian television. This knowledge can help them create television shows that are influenced by or inspired by the region's rich television tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Television Director
Film Director
A Film Director is responsible for the artistic and creative vision of a film. They work with actors, crew members, and other creatives to bring their vision to life. This course may be useful for Film Directors who want to learn more about the history and development of Scandinavian cinema. This knowledge can help them create films that are influenced by or inspired by the region's rich cinematic tradition.
See salaries and explore the career path for Film Director

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Scandinavian Film and Television.
Cover image
God and the Devil
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Scandinavian film history, from its early beginnings to the present day.
God and the Devil: The Life and Work of Ingmar...
Hardcover
$$
God and the Devil: The Life and Work of Ingmar...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Israel 201: Your Next Level Guide to the Magic and...
Save
Provides a historical and critical overview of Scandinavian documentary filmmaking.
Israel 201: Your Next-Level Guide to the Magic,...
Paperback
$$
Israel 201: Your Next-Level Guide to the Magic,...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Historical Noir
Save
Provides a concise overview of the Nordic Noir genre, which has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Historical Noir: The Pocket Essential Guide to...
Paperback
$$
Historical Noir: The Pocket Essential Guide to...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Cinema Babel
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Norwegian cinema, from its early beginnings to the present day.
Cinema Babel
Paperback
Check
Cinema Babel
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
A History of Italian Cinema
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of Finnish cinema, from its early beginnings to the present day.
A History of Italian Cinema
Paperback
Check
A History of Italian Cinema
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Transnational European Television Drama
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of the global impact of Scandinavian film and television.
Transnational European Television Drama: Production...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Effort
3-5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Copenhagen
Instructor
Eva Novrup Redvall
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the social, institutional, and cultural background of film and television in Scandinavia and in a broader European and global context
Examines the contemporary Scandinavian film and television culture, addressing its connection to the liberal and progressive welfare society
Taught by Eva Novrup Redvall, a recognized expert in Scandinavian film and television
Analyzes the international impact of Scandinavian film and television, exploring its contributions to global cultural trends
Focuses on the early years of cinema in Scandinavia and the work of Carl Th. Dreyer, providing insights into the evolution of Scandinavian filmmaking
Provides a comprehensive overview of Ingmar Bergman's acclaimed films, examining their themes, influences, and significance in modern art cinema
Offers an in-depth analysis of Lars von Trier's renowned films and ideas, exploring his impact on the international film landscape
Examines the main tendencies and 'auteurs' of the Scandinavian new wave cinema, providing insights into this influential movement
Delves into the award-winning heritage films and harsh stories that characterize Scandinavian art film and social drama after 1990, reflecting the complexities of contemporary Scandinavian society
Traces the evolution of Scandinavian documentary filmmaking, from the early pioneers to the contemporary digital era, highlighting its global impact
Explores the main tendencies in Scandinavian television drama, discussing the shift from early notions to contemporary innovations that have gained international recognition
Examines the rise of 'Nordic Noir' and the impact of digital technologies on Scandinavian television drama, highlighting the global reach of these productions
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