Film Studies A Level
This course will build on the cine-literacy that you have developed informally since childhood. You will study film in a wide variety of contexts and engage in a range of film types. You will have a chance to expand your written analysis skills whilst also getting the chance to develop creative and practical skills. You will also be expected to complete a work placement as part of your programme of study; study skills and employability skills will be developed with the help of your personal tutor.
AS units available are:
• Module 1 - Exploring Film Form
This unit focuses on the construction of meaning in film. It covers everything from cinematography, editing and emotional response, to intellectual discussion and performance to spectator. Assessment will be a 1500 word essay and a practical piece of storyboarding or filmmaking.
• Module 2 - British and American Film
This unit examines the UK and US film industries. It looks at the film audience, the interrelationship between audiences and producers (including marketing and exhibition), British film and the horror and comedy genres, film stars, production companies, culture, politics and identity (exam).
A2 units available:
• Module 3 - Film Research and Creative Projects
This will consist of a small-scale research project. You will study one film (and two support films) in detail. Factors analysed will include: genre, auteurs (directors), social contexts, gender issues, technology.
There is also a creative project in the form of a short film or an original screenplay extract.
• Module 4 - Varieties of Film Experience Issues and Debates
This is the study of world cinema, encompassing interesting topics such as urban stories, empowering women and experimental film (exam).
You will need 5 GCSEs grades 4 or above, to include English at grade 5 or above.
With this qualification in Film Studies you could go into higher education and/or work in the film industry, the media, performing arts, advertising, public relations etc.
