A-Levels: Film Studies

Why study Film Studies?

Film Studies is designed to deepen students' understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film, the major art form of the twentieth century. Films have the power to shock, provoke, amuse and excite audiences. We can all enjoy films but a full appreciation can only be reached by developing skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection.

What do I study?

Year 1 (AS)
Unit 1: Exploring Film Form-Coursework
Written coursework
This coursework module allows students to apply their knowledge of film language, narrative and genre in an extended essay focusing on a particular film.
Practical coursework
This practical coursework module develops practical skills in storyboarding, scriptwriting, filming and editing. Students have the choice of creating either a short film (two minutes) or a script extract (800 words).
Unit 2: British and American Film-Examination
This provides an introduction to British and American film production and an investigation into how audiences respond. This unit covers all aspects of the film industry such as production, marketing and exhibition. It investigates the impact of new technology in cinema. The British studio Working Title is used as a case study for British cinema focusing on films such as About a Boy and Four Weddings and a Funeral. This unit predominantly focuses on modern cinema however, there is a comparative film topic question that compares old and new cinema.
Year 2 (A2)
Unit 3: Film Research and Creative Projects-Coursework
Research Project
This unit develops students' research and organisation skills. Students are required to research a film topic area of their choice and present their findings.
Practical Project
Directly linked with the year one project this coursework unit develops students' practical skills. Students have the choice of creating either a short film (five minutes) or a script extract (1800 words).
Unit 4: World Cinema-Examination
This requires an investigation into world cinema, critical analysis of a focus film and spectarship debates. This unit is designed to extend students knowledge of different cinematic forms and styles looking at a diverse range of films such as La Haine, City of God, Tsotsi and Fight Club.

Where does Film Studies take me?
Film Studies is a well established Advanced level course and is acceptable as an A-level for universities. If combined with practical training (especially at degree level), then there are a range of career opportunities in the film and video industries.