Film Studies

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

Many consider film to be the main cultural innovation of the 20th century. You will study a range of influential mainstream and independent American and British films from the past and the present, as well as more recent global films, both non-English language and English language. A sense of the development of film from its early years to its still emerging digital future will also be gained, through the study of silent film and significant film movements, such as European avant-garde and new wave cinemas in Europe and Asia. Documentary, experimental and short films will also provide breadth to your learning experience. Furthermore, production work is a significant part of this course; you will have the opportunity to create high quality film and screenplay work.

This course will provide you with exciting opportunities to broaden your knowledge and understanding of film alongside your own passion and enthusiasm. You will work collaboratively and independently, whilst being fully supported by our teaching and commitment to your achievement.

Component 1: American and British film (written examination) 35% of qualification

Three sections:

Hollywood 1930-1990 (comparative study) e.g. Casablanca and Bonnie and Clyde

American Film since 2005 (two-film study) e.g. Captain Fantastic and La La Land

British film (two-film study) e.g. Trainspotting and Shaun of the Dead

A total of six feature length films

Component 2: Global Film-Making Perspectives (written examination) 35% of qualification

Four sections:

Film movements – Silent Cinema: Buster Keaton films

Documentary e.g. Amy

Global film (two-film study) e.g. Pan’s Labyrinth & City of God

Film Movements – Experimental Film: e.g. Memento

Component 3: NEA (non-exam assessment) 30% of qualification

One production and its evaluative analysis. You will produce:

A short film (4-5 minutes)

An evaluative analysis (1600-1800 words)

Component 1: American and British film (written examination) 35% of qualification

Component 2: Global Film-Making Perspectives (written examination) 35% of qualification

Component 3: NEA (non-exam assessment) 30% of qualification

Students will need to have a grade 5 in English Language or English Literature at GCSE.

Studying Film at A Level will provide invaluable knowledge and experience prior to undertaking Film Studies at degree level. The ability to discuss, analyse and to present your interpretation in written and creative form is a useful life skill and complements many career paths.