Journal of African Cinemas

Scope & Guideline

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of African Film Narratives

Introduction

Welcome to the Journal of African Cinemas information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Journal of African Cinemas, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1754-9221
PublisherINTELLECT LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2017 to 2023
AbbreviationJ AFR CINE / J. Afr. Cine.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressTHE MILL, PARNALL RD, BRISTOL BS16 3JG, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of African Cinemas serves as a vital platform for exploring the multifaceted dimensions of cinema in Africa, emphasizing both historical and contemporary perspectives. It aims to promote scholarly dialogue on various aspects of African cinema, including its cultural, social, and political implications.
  1. Cultural Representation and Identity:
    The journal focuses on how African cinema represents cultural identities, narratives, and experiences, examining the interplay between film and societal issues such as colonialism, nationalism, and gender.
  2. Historical Contextualization:
    It emphasizes the historical development of African cinema, tracing its evolution from early filmmaking to contemporary practices, and how these reflect broader societal changes.
  3. Critical Film Analysis:
    The journal provides critical analyses of films, exploring themes such as representation, genre, and cinematic techniques, contributing to a deeper understanding of the artistic and technical aspects of African cinema.
  4. Transnational Perspectives:
    A significant aspect of the journal is its focus on transnational cinema, examining how African films engage with global narratives and aesthetics while maintaining local relevance.
  5. Film Festivals and Industry Dynamics:
    The journal also addresses the role of film festivals, market dynamics, and the evolving landscape of film production and distribution within Africa.
The Journal of African Cinemas is currently witnessing exciting trends and emerging themes that reflect the dynamic nature of African cinema. This section outlines the areas gaining traction in recent publications, highlighting their significance.
  1. Intersectionality in Cinema:
    Recent publications increasingly explore intersectional themes, particularly how race, gender, and class intersect in cinematic narratives, reflecting a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and representation.
  2. Documentary and Participatory Cinema:
    There is a growing focus on documentary filmmaking and participatory cinema, emphasizing how these forms can empower communities and provide platforms for marginalized voices.
  3. Digital Media and New Platforms:
    The rise of digital media and streaming platforms has become a significant theme, exploring how these developments are reshaping the production, distribution, and consumption of African films.
  4. Critical Engagement with Film Festivals:
    An emerging trend is the critical examination of film festivals as spaces for cultural exchange and dialogue, particularly focusing on their role in shaping narratives and showcasing diverse African voices.
  5. Queer Cinema and LGBTQ+ Representation:
    There is a marked increase in the exploration of queer cinema and LGBTQ+ representation in African films, indicating a shift towards more inclusive storytelling and recognition of diverse sexual identities.

Declining or Waning

As the Journal of African Cinemas evolves, certain themes appear to be diminishing in prominence. This section highlights areas that have seen a decline in focus, suggesting a shift in the journal's research priorities.
  1. Early Cinema History:
    While early cinema in Africa has been addressed, recent publications indicate a waning interest in this area, possibly due to a shift towards more contemporary issues and narratives in African cinema.
  2. Traditional Gender Roles:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in discussions specifically centered on traditional gender roles in cinema, as the focus has shifted towards more nuanced explorations of gender and sexuality in contemporary contexts.
  3. Static Cultural Narratives:
    The journal has seen less emphasis on static cultural narratives that do not engage with evolving societal issues, reflecting a broader trend towards dynamic and intersectional analyses.
  4. Censorship Discussions:
    Discussions surrounding censorship in African cinema, while still relevant, have become less frequent, indicating a potential shift towards more proactive engagement with representation and autonomy in filmmaking.
  5. Local vs. Global Tensions:
    The tension between local and global narratives, although still significant, appears to be less emphasized, suggesting a movement towards integrating these discussions within broader themes of transnational cinema.

Similar Journals

MILLENNIUM FILM JOURNAL

Illuminating the Theoretical Dimensions of Film Art.
Publisher: MILLENNIUM FILM WORKSHOP INCISSN: 1064-5586Frequency: 2 issues/year

MILLENNIUM FILM JOURNAL, published by MILLENNIUM FILM WORKSHOP INC, stands as a pivotal platform for exploration and discourse within the realm of film studies. With its ISSN 1064-5586, the journal has been noteworthy in delineating the complexities of visual arts and performing arts, contributing significantly to academic scholarship between the years 2009 to 2016, and in 2018. Though its coverage has been discontinued in Scopus, the journal has attained a respectable position within its category, ranking #320 out of 502 in the Arts and Humanities field. Researchers, professionals, and students alike are invited to engage with interdisciplinary discussions that illuminate the cultural and theoretical dimensions of cinema. While currently not offering open access options, the journal continues to serve as a vital resource for those deeply invested in the study of film, making it a respected voice in visual arts and performance research.

CINEASTE

Fostering Insightful Dialogue on Film
Publisher: CINEASTEISSN: 0009-7004Frequency: 4 issues/year

CINEASTE is a distinguished journal dedicated to the critical exploration of cinema, providing a platform for scholars, filmmakers, and enthusiasts to engage with the complexities of film studies. Established and published by CINEASTE, this periodical serves as a vital resource for those interested in the intersection of visual arts and performing arts. Although it is not currently offered as Open Access, CINEASTE remains a respected publication within the academic community, having been indexed in Scopus until 2016. With an ISSN of 0009-7004, it has established itself despite its lower ranking in the arts and humanities category, reflecting the competitive nature of this field. Researchers, students, and professionals alike will find ample opportunities for insightful discussion and scholarly contributions to the evolving landscape of cinematic discourse. CINEASTE continues to uphold its mission of enhancing film scholarship, making it a crucial reference point for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of cinema's artistic and cultural significance.

Cinemas d Amerique Latine

Advancing Critical Perspectives on Latin American Film
Publisher: PRESSES UNIV MIDI-PUMISSN: 1267-4397Frequency: 1 issue/year

Cinemas d Amerique Latine is a pivotal academic journal dedicated to the exploration and critical analysis of Latin American cinema. Published by PRESSES UNIV MIDI-PUM in France, this journal serves as an essential platform for scholars, practitioners, and students to engage with the diverse and dynamic landscape of visual storytelling throughout Latin America. With a dedicated focus on the cultural, historical, and aesthetic dimensions of film in this region, Cinemas d Amerique Latine aims to foster a deeper understanding of the cinematic narratives that shape and reflect Latin American societies. The journal has garnered a respectable Q3 ranking in the Visual Arts and Performing Arts category according to the latest 2023 evaluations, signifying its growing impact and relevance in the field. Despite its current lack of open access options, contributors can expect a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring the publication of high-quality research. Researchers exploring the rich tapestry of Latin American cinema will find Cinemas d Amerique Latine to be an invaluable resource in advancing their studies and contributing to vital scholarly conversations.

CANADIAN REVIEW OF AMERICAN STUDIES

Exploring the Depths of American Culture
Publisher: UNIV TORONTO PRESS INCISSN: 0007-7720Frequency: 3 issues/year

Canadian Review of American Studies, published by University of Toronto Press Inc, stands as a vital scholarly outlet in the fields of American studies, literature, cultural studies, and history. With its origins tracing back to 1973, this journal provides a platform for innovative research and critical discourse, appealing to a wide audience of researchers, professionals, and students alike. While currently indexed in Scopus with quartile rankings highlighting its position in various categories—Q4 in Cultural Studies, History, and Literature and Literary Theory—the journal embraces a robust pursuit of knowledge that examines the intricate layers of American culture and its global intersections. Although it does not offer open access, the journal's commitment to academic rigor ensures its contributions are indispensable for understanding the complex narratives that shape American identity. As it continuously evolves, the Canadian Review of American Studies serves as an essential resource for anyone engaged in this dynamic and interdisciplinary field.

Journal of Chinese Cinemas

Showcasing Innovative Research in Chinese Film Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1750-8061Frequency: 3 issues/year

The Journal of Chinese Cinemas, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading platform dedicated to advancing the field of film studies with a focus on cinema from China. With an ISSN of 1750-8061 and an E-ISSN of 1750-807X, this journal provides a comprehensive examination of the cultural, social, and political dynamics inherent in Chinese cinema. Ranked in the Q3 category for Communication and Q1 for Visual Arts and Performing Arts in 2023, it stands out in the academic landscape, particularly noted for its innovative research and diverse discourse. It holds a respectable position in Scopus rankings, coming in at #219 within Visual Arts and Performing Arts, indicating its growing impact among scholars and practitioners alike. With its commitment to publishing high-quality research from 2012 onwards, the journal serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students eager to deepen their understanding of the evolving landscape of Chinese cinema.

SIGHT AND SOUND

Celebrating the Artistry of Film and Sound
Publisher: BRITISH FILM INSTISSN: 0037-4806Frequency: 12 issues/year

SIGHT AND SOUND is a prestigious journal published by the British Film Institute, dedicated to the exploration of cinema and its cultural significance. With an ISSN of 0037-4806 and an E-ISSN matching the same, this journal has been a critical platform for film studies since its inception, contributing valuable insights to the realms of visual arts and performing arts. Despite its discontinuation in the Scopus database post-2021, SIGHT AND SOUND commands respect within its field, currently holding a Q3 rank among Visual Arts and Performing Arts journals. Operating from 21 Stephen Street, London W1P 1PL, England, it serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students looking to deepen their understanding of film theory, critique, and history. While access to its articles is not open, the journal continues to influence the discourse in film studies, making it a significant asset in academic and professional circles.

POSITIF

Connecting Researchers and Practitioners in Arts Innovation
Publisher: POSITIF EDITIONSISSN: 0048-4911Frequency: 11 issues/year

POSITIF is a distinguished journal, published by POSITIF EDITIONS, focusing on the dynamic fields of Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With ISSN 0048-4911, this journal has been a significant contributor to the arts community since its establishment in 2002, and it continues to captivate readers with its upcoming issues projected until 2024. Based in the heart of France at 12 RUE PIERRE ET MARIE CURIE, 75005 PARIS, POSITIF serves as an invaluable platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, promoting innovative discourse and critical analysis within the arts. Despite holding a Q4 category ranking in the 2023 classification and a Scopus rank of 637/667, its commitment to enhancing the understanding and appreciation of visual and performing arts remains steadfast. Researchers are invited to contribute to this growing body of knowledge, enriching the journal's scope and impact in a vibrant artistic landscape.

Transnational Screens

Unveiling the Complexities of Globalized Artistic Expressions
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2578-5273Frequency: 3 issues/year

Transnational Screens is a premier academic journal published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, focusing on the dynamic intersections of visual arts, performing arts, and communication in a globalized context. Since its inception, the journal has garnered significant recognition, featuring in the Q1 category for Visual Arts and Performing Arts and Q3 for Communication as of 2023, reflecting its influential contributions to these fields. With a Scopus ranking placing it in the 78th percentile in Visual Arts and Performing Arts, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore the implications of transnational narratives in contemporary media and artistic practices. The journal is accessible to a diverse readership and promotes open dialogue through its commitment to publishing innovative and interdisciplinary research from 2020 to 2024. As a key resource for understanding the complexities of transnational screens, it invites submissions that push the boundaries of traditional scholarship and engage with pressing global issues through the lens of the visual and performing arts.

Studies in Australasian Cinema

Illuminating Cinema Through an Australasian Lens
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1750-3175Frequency: 3 issues/year

Studies in Australasian Cinema is a premier scholarly journal published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, dedicated to the exploration of film and cinema within the Australasian context. With an ISSN of 1750-3175 and an E-ISSN of 1750-3183, this journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of Visual Arts and Performing Arts and Communication. Notably, it holds a prominent Q1 rank in Visual Arts and Performing Arts, reflecting its impact within the academic community. Although it is not an open access journal, its rigorous peer-review process ensures the highest quality of published research. Since its inception in 2007, Studies in Australasian Cinema has continued to contribute significantly to discourse surrounding film theory, criticism, and production, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of Australasian cinema.

Hrvatski Filmski Ljetopis

Advancing Insights into Croatian Cinema.
Publisher: CROATIAN FILM CLUBS ASSOCISSN: 1330-7665Frequency: 4 issues/year

Hrvatski Filmski Ljetopis, published by the Croatian Film Clubs Association, serves as a pivotal academic journal in the field of film studies, celebrating and analyzing the rich cinematic heritage of Croatia and beyond. With an ISSN of 1330-7665, this journal caters to researchers, practitioners, and students who are passionate about the art of filmmaking, encompassing both theoretical discourse and practical implications. Although it is not currently available as an open-access publication, its curated content is of significant value to anyone interested in the evolution, critique, and history of film in a Croatian context, having previously been indexed in Scopus until coverage was discontinued. The journal operates out of Zagreb, Croatia, at the Croatian Film Clubs Association headquarters, and aims to foster scholarly dialogue while contributing to the broader field of national and international cinematography.