Film Studies
At Ryde School, we are proud to offer this dynamic, creative and highly topical subject at Advanced level. For over a decade, the English Department has offered Media Studies with great success: last summer, we achieved a 100% pass rate with A & B grades. However, changes to A level courses have convinced us that this is the right time to make the change, particularly as so many of our students have asked about the possibility of studying more film.
Film Studies has been a respected academic discipline since the early seventies. Whilst placing greater intellectual demands on our students, it preserves the popular and successful practical element of the course. At AS, students have the opportunity to plan, script, cast, shoot and edit a short film of their own devising. Further practical work is offered in the form of a detailed analysis of a sequence from a film of their own choice. The theoretical side of the course offers opportunities to study how both audiences and producers shape contemporary texts; the British Cinema (exploring such important topics as cultural identity and the way in which changes in society have been reflected - even influenced by - the cinema of its day) and US Films. (The latter involves a comparative study of two films of a similar genre, made in different decades. For example, a comparison between 42nd Street and Chicago or a detailed study of the two King Kong films).
Both AS & A2 involve two written examinations, alongside the coursework. At AS, the coursework counts for 40%: at A2 it weighs in at 50%.
At A2, students have the opportunity to study a related research topic of their own choice, writing a short independent study. The Creative Project allows students to either make a short film or write a screenplay.
Film has been one of the most important art forms since the 20th century. Film Studies recognises this, providing students with a unique insight both into how this popular cultural form works and how it reflects the society that produces it. It teaches students to question both the explicit and implicit messages film presents, encouraging them to become active and independent readers, rather than mindless consumers! It also balances creativity with an intellectual rigour. The subject also teaches students to develop independent research and study skills, which will stand them in good stead for further education.
This subject is open to all, as it can be tackled on a number of levels. Students who have enjoyed English, Art and History, will find themselves drawn to Film Studies. It also allows students to write independently and creatively, appealing to those who enjoy imaginative writing. Students need not be considering a career in film to opt for this subject; it draws on a range of disciplines and is, therefore, valid for a wide range of university courses.