Matthew Hipps

Matthew Hipps is a Part-Time Lecturer at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) at Tufts University, specializing in film history with a focus on early cinema, animation, and nontheatrical film. His research explores intersections between blockbuster cinema, theme park rides, queer theory, and alternative exhibition practices. He holds a PhD in Film Studies from the University of Iowa, an MA from Columbia University, and a BA from the University of Miami.

Education:

• PhD in Film Studies, University of Iowa
• MA in Film Studies, Columbia University
• BA in Communication (Political Science/Motion Pictures), University of Miami

His teaching spans foundational courses in film theory and media history, as well as advanced topics like animation studies, blockbuster cinema, and alternative exhibition models. He has taught at institutions including The Museum of the Moving Image, CUNY, Shenandoah University, and the University of Iowa.

Research Highlights:

Recent work analyzes theme park cinematic experiences through lenses of queer spectatorship, embodied participation, and spatial narrative design. Key projects include studies of 'movie ride systems' and the evolution of peripheral cinematic spaces.

Awards & Recognition:

• Member of the Collegium at Le Giornate del Cinema Muto (2011)

Professional Activities:

Active presenter at major conferences such as Society of Cinema and Media Studies, with notable presentations on Resnais’ materiality, Pat Rocco’s queer travelogues, and the historical continuum of movie rides from Hale’s Tours to modern attractions.