Film Studies

Course summary

The study of film is fast becoming one of the most popular A level courses in the creative A level options. You will sit the course over a two year period to gain a full A level qualification at the end of year 13. A Level Film Studies is designed to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding of film and the variety of meanings and responses films can generate. You will study a wide variety of films: British and American films (both mainstream and independent), you will also look at European and World cinema. Studies in documentary, silent film, experimental and short films will add to the breadth of your learning experience. Production work is a crucial part of this course, and you will be given the opportunity to apply your knowledge and understanding of how films are constructed through your own film-making and screenwriting. First and foremost, you must enjoy different styles and types of films and watch them regularly. You should be curious and critical about things you watch and are told in films and documentaries and be confident to criticise and ask questions. You need to be confident to write essays, both of the exams consist only of essay style questions and you need to be prepared to work hard, write at length and conduct a lot of independent study away from the classroom. You also need to be creative, as part of the course will be practical and you will have to design and make your own short film.