Film Studies (GCSE

WHY SHOULD I OPT FOR FILM STUDIES?

Film is a huge and important part of many people’s lives and those who choose to study it bring an excitement and enthusiasm with them which motivates them in their studies. Film has a significant impact on the way people think and feel, it is not surprising that students wish to learn more about something they may already be very passionate about. The academic study of film explores how meaning is constructed, film as a work of art and technology and how films reflect the social, cultural and political context in which any given film is made. It requires an analytical approach and the ability to look beyond the surface meaning of film as entertainment.

BRIEF OVERVIEW:

Students will study mainstream American films, film technology and independent film. They will cover a range of texts such as classic Hollywood musicals, like Singing In The Rain, Hitchcock to modern action films like Skyfall and sci-fi films like District 9. The course also includes global film where the film texts are produced outside the US. This gives students a broad understanding of film history and the changing technologies and institutions which produce and distribute films. There is also a practical component where they can put their understanding to use and create their own screenplay.

ASSESSMENT:

COMPONENT 1: 1 HR 30 MINS EXAM 35%

A – Hollywood 1930-1990 Comparative Study B – Key developments in film and film technology C - US independent film

COMPONENT 2: 1 HR 30 MINS EXAM 35%

A – Global English Language film B – Global non English Language C – UK contemporary film

COMPONENT 3: NON-EXAM ASSESSMENT (NEA) 30%

Screenplay + analysis

HOW WILL THIS GCSE HELP ME IN THE FUTURE?

The Film Department at Frensham offers Eduqas Film Studies at A Level and so the GCSE specification provides an excellent foundation for future study in that subject. The GCSE course allows students to debate and discuss critical theory, explore a range of film making techniques and write analytically so it pairs well with English, Drama, Psychology and other essay- based subjects for students wanting to study these at A Level and beyond. The practical component provides students with insight into film production, but it is not the main element of the course.