Why should I study this subject?
The language of film is now as familiar and influential as the written word. Films dominate our cultural landscape, and the rise of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+ has brought stories and perspectives from around the world into our homes.
The UK film industry alone is worth billions of pounds, with world-famous studios such as Pinewood and Shepperton based here, and London recognised as a global centre for visual and special effects.
Film does not just entertain; it shapes how we see the world. GCSE Film Studies equips students with the skills to analyse, understand and appreciate film as both an art form and a powerful medium – and may even inspire them to help shape its future.
What will I study?
The films we are currently studying are:
- Dracula
- Whiplash
- Slumdog Millionaire
- Skyfall
- The Wave
- Girlhood
How will I be assessed?
The exam board for Film Studies is Eduqas and the majority of your assessment is based on two exam papers sat at the end of your course. However, this qualification does also include a non-exam assessment (NEA) which is worth 30% of your final mark.
Paper 1: Key Developments in US Film
- Topics covered: US film comparative study, key developments in film and film technology, US independent film
- Exam duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 35% of qualification
Paper 2: Global Film: Narrative, Representation and Film Style
- Topics covered: global English language film, global non-English language film, contemporary UK film
- Exam duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 35% of qualification
NEA: Production
- Produce a practical piece, which may be filmed or written depending on each year’s brief.
- Complete a written evaluative analysis of the production.
- 30% of qualification
Are there higher and foundation tiers?
No. All students sit the same exam and study the same content, with questions designed to allow achievement across the full range of grades (9–1).
Are there any trips or enrichment opportunities?
The opportunity may arise to visit locations to do with film production.
Will this course be good preparation for post-16 study?
This course will prepare you for further study in a range of A Levels such as Film Studies, Media Studies and Communication Studies. It will also give you a range of analytical skills you can apply to several subjects as well as a knowledge of how culture has developed over time and across cultures.
