Introduction
Film is one of the main cultural innovations of the 20th century and a major art form of the last hundred years. The course introduces learners to a wide variety of films in order to broaden their knowledge and understanding of film and the range of responses films can generate. Learners study mainstream American films from the past and the present as well as a range of recent and contemporary British films, American independent films and global films, both non-English language and English language. In addition they will look at a variety of historical films, documentary, experimental and short films. Students apply the knowledge gathered to develop their screenplay and filmmaking skills.
Where does it lead?
The course provides a suitable progression to a range of higher education degree and vocational level courses or to employment. For those who do not wish to progress further with Film Studies, this specification also provides a coherent, engaging and culturally valuable course of study.
Course details
Component 1: Varieties of film and filmmaking 35% (written examination: 2 hours and 30 mins). Students study Hollywood films from 1930-1960 and 1961-1990, American films contemporary and mainstream from 2005 onwards and two British films since 1995.
Component 2: Global filmmaking perspectives 35% written examination: 2 hours and 30 mins. Students study two global films (one European and one outside Europe), a documentary film, film movements including silent cinema and one experimental film from 1960-2000.
Component 3: Production 30% (Non-exam assessment). Learners produce a short film or screenplay and digitally photographed
storyboard.