Page 32 - Alternative Europe Eurotrash and Exploitation Cinema Since 1945

as a nodal point for the study of cult, trash and alternative cinema, as a site where original research
into the area is being undertaken, and as a voice for scholarly intervention in public discourses around
alternative media arts. To the first aim, C R E A M has set up a network of contacts and meeting points
to enable academic communication (including, in the long run, the association with other research
centers, archives and festivals in the organisation of lectures, seminars and conferences, the setting up
and maintaining of academic research networks, and the dissemination of research results (including a
website). The links with both De Montfort University and the Cult Film Archive are key to this.
To the second aim, C R E A M works towards creating funding possibilities for individual and joint
research projects in the study of extreme and alternative media of regional, national and international
scope. The Centre recognises the diversity of angles and topics of its field of enquiry. Therefore,
a main activity of the Centre is to function as an umbrella for projects (either individual or joint
projects), of its members. This means it will support to its best ability funding applications, function
as a provider of feedback, and facilitate initiatives.
To the third aim, C R E A M acts as an active participant in debates about the nature, reception and
public place of alternative media arts. Here, its explicit intention is to provide expert advise, take part
in public debates (events, lectures, hearings, discussion panels, festivals), and generally support the
visibility, dissemination and public understanding of alternative media arts.
Together, these initiatives represent a rise in academic interest in the lowbrow undercurrents of
cinema that have all too often been exorcised from critical scrutiny. It is our hope, as editors, that this
book may contribute to their visibility. While taking away some of the mystery, it may also help to
dissipate some fear.

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