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AS And A level Film Studies

Course code: FIS

Level: AS Level, A Level

Availability: Day Course

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Summary

Film Studies allows you to study how films are put together, how cinema functions as a business and how you can identify messages in films that you watch.

Requirements

You will need:
At least five GCSEs at grade C or above to include English Language. You need to enjoy watching a wide range of films and be willing to discuss the ideas contained within them.

Course Content

In Year 1 you will study units 1and 2 for the AS level. In Year 2 you will take units 3 and 4 to complete the full A level.

Unit 1: Exploring the Film Form
You will study micro features of film such as mise-en-scène, performance, cinematography, editing and sound. You will identify and reflect on how these create meanings and create your own micro feature sequence to demonstrate how it produces meanings and responses. The emphasis will be on the interaction of film and spectator.
You will be assessed by coursework

Unit 2: British and American Film
You will focus on two key aspects of Film Studies and investigate both national and international films.  You will construct meaning between producers and audiences and narrative and genre.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 3: Film Research and Creative Projects
You will complete a small-scale research project designed to develop research skills within the framework of one or more critical approaches used in film studies.  You will also develop creative skills and a deepened understanding of the medium chosen for the creative project. 
You will be assessed by coursework

Unit 4: Varieties of Film Experience – Issues and Debates

You will study films from different contexts, explore issues in relation to a particular type of film and apply key concepts and critical approaches gained throughout the course to explore one film in a synoptic manner.
You will be assessed by examination

What else do I need to know?

A room equipped with DVD projection and theatre surround sound is available for Film Studies classes. Access to at least a DVD player at home will be very useful for completing assignments. The library houses an excellent stock of film books and magazines. Visits to cinemas are arranged when possible. Good study support materials are available on the college intranet site.

This course does not provide training in practical film-making, although there will be an opportunity to produce some creative work.

Film Studies will combine with any other subject, including BTEC Creative Media Production (Interactive Media) and Media Studies. The subject can offer possibilities for entry into a range of careers, as you will be equipped with a good blend of analytical and creative skills.

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