This module examines the “independent” sector of contemporary American cinema. With the global conglomerates that control Hollywood increasingly emphasising the production of blockbusters, remakes and other films based on pre-sold properties or established franchises, it has been left to the often loosely defined independent sector of American cinema to produce original films that often push the envelope in matters of politics, aesthetics, representation and cultural commentary. This Level 3 module examines what critics have labelled American Independent with particular emphasis on three main areas of critical interest that will be explored throughout the lectures and seminars: a) the films’ industrial location; b) the formal/aesthetic strategies they adopt; and c) their relationship to the broader social, cultural, political and ideological landscape.