The Department of Journalism, Media, and Digital Communication at the University of Jordan’s (UJ) School of Arts hosted filmmaker and assistant professor at Luminus Technical University College, Dr. Ahmad Al-Faleh, for a specialized lecture on the applications of semiotic analysis in cinematic work.
During the lecture, which was attended by Chair of the Department, Dr. Yasmin Aldamen, along with students, Dr. Al-Faleh explained that semiotics plays a significant role in developing students’ critical and analytical thinking skills, which enhances their ability to engage consciously with media content, both as consumers and creators, particularly in an age marked by the expansion of digital and interactive platforms.
Al-Faleh, illustrated how digital elements and modern technologies are employed in filmmaking to convey visual messages and enrich the global dimension of cinematic works. He highlighted the role of technology in constructing deep visual meanings and interpretations within cinematic discourse.
In her remarks, Aldamen underscored the importance of integrating semiotic analysis into media studies curricula, especially in light of rapid digital transformation. She noted its essential role in fostering critical thinking and helping students comprehend the implicit messages embedded in media content and films.
Aldamen further explained that studying semiotic analysis enables media students to uncover the communicative messages hidden behind images, films, and media texts. This type of analysis, she said, allows students to deconstruct visual and linguistic symbols and signs and to identify the cultural and social connotations they carry, moving beyond superficial content interpretation.
The lecture saw active engagement from students, who were drawn to its rich content and the in-depth analysis of selected scenes from the acclaimed Jordanian film Theeb. Al-Faleh demonstrated how to deconstruct visual and auditory symbols and interpret costume design, lighting, camera movement, and music, showing how each contributes to the film’s overall meaning.
Al-Faleh also encouraged students to participate in discussions, analyze scenes themselves, and ask questions, which helped solidify their practical understanding of semiotic analysis and its applications across various media and cinematic contexts.