WJEC A Level Film Studies Level 3

In a nutshell

This course studies a wide-ranging mix of film studies to enable you to discover your passion.

This course is for you if...

... You want to go into higher education in the subject
... You want to work in the film industry
... You want a practical and theoretical study course

What will I be doing?

This course is suitable if you want to go on to higher education, work in the film industry or simply have an interest in the subject. The course includes the study of the features of:

• Films (including setting, props, costumes, make-up, camera work, lighting, editing, sound, performance)
• Narrative, genre and representation
• Different viewing platforms and audience responses to films
• Hollywood and British film industries
• World cinema
• Critical study of films

This A Level course supports you to create a practical production (a screenplay for a fiction film, a script for a documentary or a short film) linked to a research project.

At Torfaen Learning Zone Film Studies is a linear qualification, all examinations and coursework are completed in the 2nd year of this course.

A level learners study a wide variety of films to broaden their knowledge and understanding of film. These include American films from the past and the present as well as a range of recent and contemporary British films, as well as American independent films and global films.

Production work is a crucial part of the course and is intended to enable learners to create a high-quality short film or a screenplay.

Examples of films studied on the course at TLZ are:

Trainspotting (Boyle, 1996)

Shaun of the Dead (Wright ,2004)

Captain Fantastic (Ross, 2016)

Memento (Nolan, 2000)

Vertigo (Hitchcock, 1958)

Alien (Scott, 1979)

Due to the analytical nature of the course, it is suggested (although not a requirement) that learners achieve a B grade at English Literature GCSE.”

What is expected of me?

Full commitment to attendance is required, as is respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject and self-motivation. You’ll be continually assessed and there is an expectation that you’ll continue your studies and coursework during your own time.

What comes next?

You can go on to higher education (HND or BA courses) in a film, media or communication subject. Some degree courses place more emphasis on creative production and can be located in art and design or performing arts, as well as in media, film and communications departments. Other courses emphasise critical skills. Often degree courses offer a combination of creative and critical elements and approaches.