Film Studies

A Level / 2 year Course / EDUQAS

A-level Film Studies is for students who are serious film viewers and want to explore and learn about a wide range of contemporary and historical English language films as well as international cinema. This two-year course is principally designed to develop analytical skills, but also has a practical production coursework component worth 30% embedded within it.

More on this course

A-level Film Studies explores both mainstream and independent cinema from a creative and academic perspective, examining the key production processes from concept through to screening.

Learners will study one classical Hollywood film from the period 1930-1960 and another from 1961-1990 as well as mainstream and independent film from both the UK and Hollywood. Films in this section include: Alien, Vertigo, Under the Skin and Shaun of the Dead.

Learners study two non-English language films, one documentary film, one film option from a 1920s silent film movement and one film option from an experimental film movement. Films in this section include: Pan’s Labyrinth, Amy, Pulp Fiction and City of God.

Teaching and learning methods

The course is taught by specialist film teachers. A great deal of learning time will be spent analysing and writing about key sequences both individually and within groups, whilst independent planning, research and production skills will be engaged during coursework production.

Assessment

Component 1: Film History (exam-based 35%)

Component 2: Critical approaches to film (exam-based 35%)

Component 3: Making a short film (coursework project 30%)

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Film Studies develops your analytical, creative, and technical skills as you explore the art of filmmaking, from directing and cinematography to editing and sound design. You'll learn how to critically analyse films, understanding narrative techniques, genre, and cultural impact. These skills open doors to careers in film production, directing, screenwriting, editing, film criticism, and media marketing. Whether you aspire to work in Hollywood, run a production company, or become a film critic, A Level Film Studies provides a solid foundation for a career in the dynamic and ever-evolving film industry.

Subject Combination

Film Studies works well with a wide range of subjects, but will combine particularly well with English Language and Literature, Media Studies, BTEC TV and Film, History and Sociology.

English Language

English Literature

Media Studies

History

Sociology

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