Do you have a passion for film, and want to develop your critical thinking skills by examining different genres of film and film making techniques? Are you keen to develop your own creative skills, and explore a variety of film making technology and software?
Then A Level Film Studies is for you! This is an academic A Level which will see you investigating a range of acclaimed films from across the decades, building your critical thinking and understanding of how the techniques used can influence the audience. As part of this, you’ll explore a diverse range of texts and films including contemporary movies such as The Dark Knight Rises and Skyfall, to classics such as Raging Bull.
You'll need to meet the entry criteria for your chosen pathway.
For further information on the pathways, please click here.
This is a dynamic and engaging subject and topics include:
• Cinematography
• Aesthetics
• Editing
• Screenwriting
• Storyboarding
• Mise-en-scene
• Narrative
Educate, Enrich, Enlighten
Studying for an A Level in Film Studies is an enriching experience. Our highly qualified and passionate subject specialists will help you to realise your creativity and think critically. We are proud of the outstanding experience on offer, both inside and outside of the classroom.
We have state-of-the-art facilities within the department including industry standard video editing suites. Linked to your studies, you’ll enjoy a range of fantastic opportunities including visiting speakers, a 12 hour movie marathon, visits from our successful Alumni and externally led workshops.
You will be encouraged to build on your cultural capital through a range of extracurricular opportunities, from guest speakers to visiting local film festivals. In past years, our Film Studies students:
- Attended a guest talk with director Joe Roberts
- Attended the York Aesthetica Film Festival
- Attended cinema screenings of new films
- Attended Film Workshops for valuable work experience
- Taken part in an informal ‘Film Club’ – watching classic and not so classic films
- Students can also take part in the EPQ with a focus on Film Studies
This course is assessed via examinations (70%) and a coursework portfolio (30%).
A Level Film Studies is valued highly for the transferable skills it develops, so it can support a wide range of exciting destinations. Naturally some of our students study this subject because they are interested in a career in the film making or creative industries; however it can support a broader range of progression opportunities and our students also move on to degrees in Humanities and Art.
What does this course go well with or what may you like?
News From the Department
Good to Know
There is absolutely no pre-requirement to have studied this subject at GCSE. Film Studies is an academic subject as it is essay based – you may enjoy subjects such as GCSE History or English. This course is valued highly by universities, as it develops a range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, cultural awareness and the ability to express your opinions clearly and concisely.
Where Are They Now?
Jake Metcalf
Film Making at Manchester Met University
