Film Studies AS and A Level

Is this subject right for me?
Do you enjoy detailed analysis of the techniques of film making (such as editing, sound, and camerawork)?
Are you interested in all aspects of film, including film studios and audience trends?
Do you like the idea of engaging in creative projects such as storyboarding using a digital camera or creating extended step outlines for film sequences? (we only start to make films in the A2 year).

Film Studies involves studying all aspects of film, including the contexts in which films are made, distributed and viewed by audiences around the world. Although there is some practical production work - mainly in the second year (the A2) - the emphasis of the subject is on studying film. So a significant part of both the AS and A2 courses involves the close study of the Hollywood mainstream and British filmmaking as well as independent and alternative films. This should mean that you'll be introduced to everything from the latest Hollywood blockbusters to British, European and World cinema.

Although Film Studies is a relatively recent A Level, it is now well established and fully recognised by all Universities. It could be combined very successfully with Photography, Art, English Literature, Theatre Studies or Languages and even with Media Studies or Communication at AS (see note under 'other information'). It provides an excellent progression for those who want to continue studying film at either university or college.

What is the course content?

AS Level (Year 1)
As with all AS subjects, you will be studying two main units: the first unit is coursework designed to explore and creatively engage with the micro features of filmmaking; the second unit is examined, and involves looking at areas such as the role of the film industry and audiences in shaping films, and British and American filmmaking. You'll therefore be exploring the following:

1. Exploring Film Form:
Coursework one: close analysis of how the micro aspects of a chosen
aspect from a film of your choice produces meanings and responses.

Coursework two: a creative project based on a film sequence or a short film

2. British and American Film
Examination
Three areas studied:

• Producers and Audiences
• Topics in British Film (e.g. British Film and Genre; British stars; British
  Film and culture; British Film and identity)
• US Film: a comparative study of 2 films

A2 (Year 2)
In A2 you will be developing your understanding of all of the work you've been introduced to in AS but in addition, you'll be studying different examples of world cinema and completing a film project. You will also have the opportunity to make your own short film or write a screenplay.

How will your work be assessed?

AS - 40% coursework (consisting of 1 essay and some practical work)
60% exam (consisting of 1 exam)

A2 - 50% coursework
50% exam (consisting of 1 exam)

What are the entry requirements?

The general entry requirements for studying at Advanced level apply, and must include a minimum of grade C in English GCSE.

Other information

Film and Media Studies would be a good combination at AS Level. Media Studies will provide you with a broader approach to media issues and will also give you the chance to carry out practical production work. Film Studies will mean focusing just on film and there is less practical filmmaking at AS. All film students are offered additional practical skills classes to support their coursework. This can lead to an NCFE level 2 award in Interactive Media.

Main differences between Media, Film and Communication & Culture:

Media Studies focuses on:
television, film and magazines and includes a major practical project at both AS and A2.

Film Studies concentrates on:
film but only includes a limited amount of practical filmmaking at AS.

Communication & Culture focuses on giving presentations and studying all major forms of communication, whilst working practically on print & on-line forms of media.

10/09