Board: WJEC
Syllabus: AS Level (0420/80), A Level (0069/90)
About the subject
This course provides fascinating insights into the way in which films are produced, in addition to the detailed analysis of some of the finest and most influential films ever made. Significant time is put into the viewing and deconstruction of key films. Students learn the basic technical principles of cinematography, editing and story construction on film. Additional elements include research into the economic and social background to the production and consumption of films in the UK and USA. Specific studies are made into particularly influential national film industries, starting with Hollywood and British Film in the first year and progressing to World Cinema in the second year.
As an analytical, essay based subject, students will be expected to produce thoughtful, insightful written and verbal deconstructions of the films they see and of the conditions and contexts under which those films were produced.
Learning styles
Much of the learning in Film studies is based upon deconstructing films in order to understand the technical, industrial and economic processes that contributed to their construction. Students must be capable of writing thoughtful essays and of providing insight and analysis into what they see. These skills will be essential for the effective production of coursework which makes up a significant proportion of the assessment in both the AS and A2 years. During A2, the coursework will include a significant element of practical video production.
Subject Combinations and Progression
Film Studies combines with essay based subjects such as Media Studies, English, History, Politics, Sociology, Psychology and Law. It also combines with arts subjects such as Photography, Art, Theatre Studies, Performing Arts and Dance. Students can progress to a range of degree courses including specialist production training for those interested in careers within the media industries.
Subject Modules and Assessment
AS
- Exploring Film Form (coursework): written individual film analysis and practical group filmmaking;
- British and American Film (exam): the film industry in Hollywood and the UK; the UK Horror Genre (The Descent and An American Werewolf in London); USA genre comparison (The Shawshank Redemption and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest).
Assessment: 60% examination, 40% coursework.
A2
- Individual Film Research and presentational and practical group filmmaking (coursework)
- Varieties of Film Experience (exam): Documentary film; New Wave film (French, USA, Mexican) and a close study of the cult American film Fight Club.
Assessment: 50% examination, 50% coursework.
Entry requirements
C in English Language