Course description
What is this course about?
You will deepen your understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film - perhaps the major art form of our times. You will engage with a wide range of different kinds of films. We look at mainstream, independent, US, UK and `world+ cinema. Film industries are studied from the point of view of producers and audiences. We develop your skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection.
What will I study?
* A range of film texts both modern and classic. In the AS year these are all British or American films.
* For coursework (40% of the total mark) you learn the fundamentals of film analysis and write two analytical essays on film extracts of your choice.
* You take on the role of director, cinematographer or editor and, working in a group, film on video an extract from your own film. Don`t worry if you have not made a film before - we will be there to help and advise.
* We study the film industry in Britain and Hollywood from the point of view of both producers and audiences.
* We look at the meanings and values in a "focus film", and explore a social issue across a range of films.
In the second year, the course builds on the skills developed in the AS year. You study contemporary world cinema, shocking cinema and other issues and debates. You have the chance to make your own short film or write a screenplay extract or some film journalism. You also undertake a research project into a film-maker of your choosing.
A level Film Studies is particularly recommended if you are studying English Literature or English Language and Literature and are interested in extending the nature of the `texts+ you analyse. It also complements any arts-based combination of A levels, and indeed can `round off++ any mix of A-levels, provided you have a genuine interest in cinema.
What can I do after the course?
From the AS Level course you can go on to A2 Level study and prepare for university entrance. At university you could take Film Theory, Film Criticism and Film History. You could also move into a range of film/video/TV production courses which might lead into the industry. Film Studies also complements well the study of English and visual arts based subjects such as Photography
