Film Studies

Are you interested in films and the way they are made?  Would you like to learn more about the language of film, the film industry and its history and development?  If you like visiting the cinema, watching films at home and following developments in the industry, Film Studies could be the right option for you.  In addition, you will get the practical opportunity to shoot a short film sequence, or to design your own film sequence by creating a storyboard using a digital camera or a step outline.

WHAT WILL I BE STUDYING ON THE COURSE?
In many ways a film can be studied like a novel in English Literature, although in film close attention must also be paid to the visual language as well as analysing narrative and characters.  We will therefore analyse in depth key films and extracts from films.

 
In addition we study, as students of Sociology might, who watches what and why, as well as considering the links between Film, History, Economics, Politics and Business Studies.  We consider film industries in the UK and USA as well as exploring issues worldwide.

AS will include areas such as:
·           film style analysis
·           film making OR storyboarding OR step outline writing
·           stars/directors
·           marketing and publicity
·           Hollywood
·           producers and audiences
·           aspects of British films via case studies
·           aspects of US films via case studies
 
A2 will cover:
·            small scale research project
·            advanced scriptwriting OR film production OR documentary step outline
·            studies in World Cinema
·            spectatorship
·            close study film
 
WHAT WILL I BE DOING DURING LESSONS?
A combination of theoretical and practical work - there will be analysis of films in their entirety as well as specific segments.  Practical sessions in film-making, step outline writing and storyboarding will help you with your practical unit.  There will be group discussion, essay work, individual research and presentations in a variety of forms.  Your considered opinions, personal responses and findings will be encouraged.

HOW WILL THE COURSE BE ASSESSED?
Both AS and A2 will be assessed by a combination of examination and practical/coursework (although the emphasis is on written assessment).
 
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO TAKE THE COURSE?
You should have at least a grade C in English Language together with a strong interest in film.  You will need enthusiasm and a willingness to work as part of a team and as an individual.

WHAT OTHER SUBJECTS COULD I DO WITH FILM STUDIES?
The subject combines well with any subject combination to add breadth to your studies.
 
AND AFTER THE COURSE?
Many students go on to study Film/Media in Higher Education, but the subject is welcome as an acceptable entrance qualification for other degree level courses due to the range of skills developed.  The subject encourages the analytical and practical skills appropriate for a career in the Film/Media industry and elsewhere.
 
View the Film Studies page on the WJEC Website.