The role of space and place in the creation of visual narratives constitutes one of the most
dynamic and exciting debates in contemporary film studies. How does film construct space? What
are the spatial codes and strategies that it uses? What is the relationship between space and
time in film? How do spatial constructs enable us to understand new concepts of identity and
the politics and geographies of exile and displacement? Such questions whose importance to
contemporary film and culture is fundamental are explored in wide-ranging challenging essays
that re-evaluate and extend recent theoretical debate in relation to the regional and national
cinemas of Europe. Alongside critical essays by scholars of international repute the book
contains original contributions by practising film directors. Characterised by its
interdisciplinary cross-national focus it is thematically structured to provide an insight
into smaller and less well-explored cinemas as well as those of Britain France Germany Italy
Russia and Spain. Authoritative lively and jargon-free these essays provide the reader with
a clear understanding of the significance of space and place and a fresh perspective on the
fascinating diversity of European cinema.
