The Routledge Encyclopedia of Film Theory provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts in film theory from the early 20th to the early 21st century. Edited by Warren Buckland, this international reference work features contributions from over 50 scholars who distill complex theoretical formulations into accessible propositions. The volume systematically defines and analyzes fundamental concepts, ranging from widely recognized terms like 'Gaze' and 'Genre' to more specialized ideas such as Deleuze's 'Time-Image'. It serves as an essential resource for students and scholars engaging with film theory.

This encyclopedia is designed as an accessible reference for students new to film theory, aiming to demystify complex concepts. The collection of essays by international scholars suggests a broad and authoritative scope, covering a wide range of theoretical frameworks. Its structure, which breaks down difficult ideas into straightforward propositions, indicates a pedagogical approach intended to aid comprehension for undergraduates and early-career graduate students.