Film Studies

Course summary

Discover the learning experience and opportunities you can expect from this course. Film Studies is designed to deepen students' understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film. It is considered one of the major art forms of the twentieth century, and one that is developing new modes of expression and exhibition in the first decades of the twenty-first century. It is an exciting opportunity for students to study the history, development and future of film, alongside gaining practical knowledge and experience of film making on the Film Studies course. The course explores the relationship between the film and the individual by analysing how films create meanings and produce both intellectual and emotional responses. Additionally, the aesthetic and sensory qualities of film are emphasised as integral to a study of the interaction between films and spectators. The study of film producers and audiences explores issues of production and consumption: the supply of and demand for films. Some of the recurring debates within film culture will also be examined. These include the global dominance of Hollywood, strategies for supporting indigenous film and the significance of fandom. During year 12 there are two areas of study, where students will undertake a practical project to explore film form and theoretical exploration into British and American film. During year 13, students will complete a coursework unit, which comprises of a creative project. The second half of year 13 is spent studying for the examination based on film experiences and varieties within film genres.