This course of study encourages learners to watch, engage critically with and explore a wide range of film; to develop and sustain confident, personal responses to film via textual analysis; and to enjoy a variety of critically acclaimed films across the major genres. These include films from different cultural perspectives, films from the Silent Era to the present day, and different forms of film, including documentary, shorts and experimental. OCR’s A Level in Film Studies reinforces the relationship between academic theory and practice through a creative production where students get to make a five-minute short film or write a screen play.
Course Content
Paper 1- Film History (2 hour exam)
Learners will develop knowledge of film form through the study of at least three US set films from:
• the Silent Era
• 1930–1960
• 1961–1990.
Learners will also study set films from two major European film movements or stylistic developments such as German Expressionism or the French New Wave.
Paper 2- Critical Approaches to Film (2 hour exam)
Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of key critical approaches to film and of narrative, genre, representations and spectatorship. Learners must study at least one set film from each of the categories below:
• Contemporary British
• Contemporary US
• Documentary
• Non-European non-English language
• English language (non-US)
• US Independent.
Making Short Film Non-examined assessment (NEA)
Learners will study a compilation of short films and then make their own short film or a 10 minute screenplay for a short film (incorporating a digitally photographed storyboard)
The qualification is taken over two years with two exams and non-examined assessment.
Film and TV are growing industries and there are many opportunities developing in the cultural sector.
Film critic, screenwriter, Media planner, multimedia specialist, programme researcher, broadcasting/film/video, public relations officer, runner, broadcasting/film/video social media manager television/film/video producer, web content manager, advertising account executive. broadcast journalist.
5 GCSEs 9-4 (or equivalent Level 2 passes) including English Language or Literature Grade 5.
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