Film Studies

Why study Film Studies?

We might regard watching films as relaxation or escapism. However, the in-depth study of film teaches you to ‘read’ rather than ‘watch’ what is on screen. As well as gaining an appreciation of film as an art form in terms of its visual storytelling, studying film can enhance your understanding of the world. It will challenge you to think in new ways and to question your perspective on a whole host of issues, such as the representation of race and gender. Studying film allows you to understand important issues and developments within history, society and culture, using film as the medium with which to gain a greater insight into these areas. The development of deeper critical and creative thinking gained by studying film is a much sought after transferable skill that will enhance many career paths and further study.

How is the course examined?

Examination

There are two exams at GCSE, each worth 35% of the qualifica tion. Each exam lasts 90 minutes and consists of three different sections:

Component 1: Key Developments in US Film

Section A: US Film Comparative Study

Section B: Key Developments in Film & Film

Technology Section C: US Independent Film

Component 2: Global Film – Narrative, Representation & Film Style

Section A: Global English language film

Section B: Global non-English language film

Section C: Contemporary UK film

Non-examined Assessment: Creative Production

There is a creative production element which allows you to showcase screenwriting skills you develop during the course by producing a film extract screenplay (with shooting script) and an evaluative analysis.

What does the course cover?

From Hollywood Cinema to Contemporary UK Film, you will study a total of six texts that represent different time periods and moments in history. You will learn the skills to analyse key aspects of film form (cinematography, mise-en -scène, editing, sound) and consider how the director uses these to convey meaning and evoke an emotional response amongst the audience. The course will teach you to consider the role of context, narrative and representation, as well as reflect on a film’s overall aesthetic. You will also learn about the history and developments in film and film technology. The Film Studies course incorporates a creative production element where you will be able to put what you have learnt into practice by drafting a screenplay and shooting script.