A Level Film Studies Eduqas

This subject is broken down into 48 topics in 7 modules:

  1. Section 1A: Hollywood (1930-1990) (Comparative Study) 8 topics
  2. Section 1B: American Film since 2005 (Two-Film Study) 10 topics
  3. Section 1C: British Film since 1995 (Two-Film Study) 10 topics
  4. Section 2A: Global Film (Two-Film Study) 6 topics
  5. Section 2B: Documentary Film 5 topics
  6. Section 2C: Film Movements - Silent Cinema 4 topics
  7. Section 2D: Film Movements - Experimental Film (1960-2000) 5 topics
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  • 15,851
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  • 2+
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This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Film Studies

Section 1A: Hollywood (1930-1990) (Comparative Study)

Group 1 Film: The Key Elements of Film Form

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Group 1 Film: The Key Elements of Film Form

Key Elements of Film Form

Cinematography

  • The choice of shots and angles used in a scene: for example, if a character is shot from a low angle, they are usually depicted as powerful or intimidating.
  • The cinematic techniques employed, including the use of colour, lighting, shadows, and focus.
  • The usage of camera movements and positioning to convey mood, motivation, or relationships.
  • The incorporation of symbolism or motifs through visual elements.

Mise-en-scene

  • The setting and props of a scene, which often have symbolic meanings or links to characters and events.
  • Costume and makeup, which help to establish characters and their personalities.
  • The composition and arrangement of the scene, including positioning of characters and objects.
  • The influence of lighting, shadows, and colour themes in the scene.

Editing

  • The transition techniques used to move from one scene to another, such as dissolve, cut, wipe, or fade.
  • The use of editing to control pacing and rhythm, as well as character and plot development.
  • The inclusion of J and L cuts (where the audio from the preceding scene continues into the following scene, or starts before it, respectively).
  • The creative use of montage.

Sound

  • The dialogue and narration, and their contribution to the storyline and characterisation.
  • The sound effects and foley, which contribute to realism and immersion.
  • The musical score and soundtrack, and how it heightens emotions, marks key events, or underscores motifs.
  • The role of sound in establishing atmosphere and mood.

Performance

  • The acting techniques used by the performers, including gestures, speech, facial expressions, and body language.
  • The character dynamics and relationships as portrayed by the actors.
  • The actor's role in storytelling and developing audience's emotional response.
  • Star appeal and personal style of actors.

Course material for Film Studies, module Section 1A: Hollywood (1930-1990) (Comparative Study), topic Group 1 Film: The Key Elements of Film Form

Film Studies

Section 1C: British Film since 1995 (Two-Film Study)

Film 2: Meaning and Response

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Film 2: Meaning and Response

Film 2: Meaning and Response

Medium of Representation

  • Films function as a medium of representation by portraying reality, reflecting societal norms, attitudes, beliefs, or behaviours.
  • Films like "Fish Tank" offer insights into life in deprived parts of Britain, while "This is England" represents a specific era and subculture within British society.
  • Character portrayal should be considered, such as the unconventional and beautifully tragic lead in "Under the Skin" or the social reality of a working-class teen in "Sweet Sixteen".

Medium of Aesthetics

  • As a medium of aesthetics, the film employs various stylistic elements to communicate its narrative and evoke emotions.
  • Consider the use of colour palettes, lighting, camera movement, music, or other elements that have an impact on the overall mood or meaning of the film.
  • For example, the otherworldly feel of "Under The Skin" achieved through its surreal visuals and haunting score, or the gritty realism of "Fish Tank" through its handheld cinematography and natural lighting.

Spectator Response

  • The viewer's response to a film is a key element in interpreting its meaning.
  • Evaluate how elements like narrative structure, characterisation, or filmic techniques evoke a specific response.
  • For instance, how the unexpected use of humour in "Shaun of the Dead" contrasts the horror genre, or how the immersive cinematography of "Moon" empathises with the protagonist's isolation.

Analysis of Film-specific Elements

  • To fully understand a film's meaning, it's necessary to analyse film-specific techniques such as montage, diegesis, or mise-en-scene.
  • Note the effectiveness of the editing style in propelling the plot in "Trainspotting", or how the visual design in "Sightseers" enhances the narrative.
  • Consider the unique film language and understand how visual metaphors or symbolic elements contribute to the overall interpretation.

Interplay of Representation and Aesthetics

  • Explore how a film balances representation and aesthetics to create a meaningful cinematic experience.
  • "Sweet Sixteen" for instance crafts a powerful social commentary through its realistic portrayal and aesthetic simplicity.
  • Examine how the high-concept film "Moon" uses its aesthetic brilliance to subtly represent themes of identity and humanity.

By exploring these aspects in-depth, one can enhance their understanding of the films and their interpretation of the characters, narratives, themes, and stylistic elements.

Course material for Film Studies, module Section 1C: British Film since 1995 (Two-Film Study), topic Film 2: Meaning and Response

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