Affective Debt in Film

This event is for UCL students and staff. Please sign up with your UCL email address. Staff and students from other universities welcome - please email.

Join us for an exciting and thought-provoking session with Dr. Beatrix Gassmann de Sousa as we explore the concept of affective debt in contemporary media. 

For more information, contact Olivia Clarkson at olivia.clarkson.23@ucl.ac.uk.

About the session

The session will engage with rare English-language texts by Karina Griffith, an itinerant artist and writer who divides her practice between Berlin and Toronto, offering valuable insights into the subject matter. Additionally, we will explore Darkmatter, a unique publication that functions both as a network and a magazine, pushing boundaries and offering new perspectives on art, culture, and politics.The session will also highlight how comedian Thelma Buabeng uses comedy to disrupt cultural narratives, highlighting the complexities of identity, power structures, and affective engagement in modern media.

This event is perfect for those interested in contemporary film, race theory, satire, and how media can challenge and reshape societal norms. Whether you're an academic, an artist, or simply someone who enjoys thought-provoking cinema, you'll gain fresh perspectives and dive deep into conversations that explore both serious issues and the power of humour.

Reading material

Readings are recommended and not mandatory for participation.

"Talking Straight to Us": Affective Debt in Film, Karina Griffith, unk.

Bankruptcy of Affect: Blackface in DIE UMZÜGE, Karina Griffith, 2020

For those of you who speak German (or are up for a challenge), feel free to explore Buabeng's comedy channel, Tell Me Nothing About the Horse, on YouTube ahead of the event. A treasure trove of satirical content, her videos are sure to add layers to the conversation!