Film Studies

Attainment

Although a fairly new medium, film has quickly established itself as one of the key cultural signifiers of the 20th century and beyond. Much like literature, knowing film, its developments, language and key concerns, brings students more closely into touch with different cultures and their preoccupations. The power of film to break down boundaries and immerse audiences into different lives and worlds, and thus increase empathy is second to none. By analyzing film and how ideologies and narratives are presented, students gain important skills in discerning implied messages and how directors manipulate audiences. We encourage students to be critical and reflective thinkers, to have an enquiring mind and to justify their ideas with clarity and fluency. Through critical observation, writing their thoughts down, and faith in themselves and their worth, pupils have a chance to develop their critical awareness and analysis through the study of a range of films from the early black and white era to modern independent American and global films. An important part of the course is their independent work on a short film or script, which encourages students to take responsibility for their learning beyond the classroom, and be ready and willing to engage with the medium of film.

Reflection

A vital aspect of analysis is reflection as only a view within can change the view without and, conversely, what we see outside in the world is a mirror of what we have inside us. By confronting the students with multiple different versions of reality – from the gritty naturalism of Wasp to the more sarcastic social commentary of Parasite, for example – students gain a detailed and broad view of the world which can help to shape their characters and allow them to discover themselves and their vocation. Group discussions of scenes are key, as by listening to other students’ thoughts, students can enrich their own inner life and gain empathy – a core skill of film studies, due to the immersive nature of film. The independent project (either a short film or a script) is a central point that allows the pupils time and space to reflect on influences and their finished product, tracing influences and how they reacted to them in a reflective and analytical commentary.

Appreciation

Film studies through its course content captures a great range and diversity of experience in different times, cultures and nations. By engaging with these cultural artefacts in a spirit of love and respect, we hope that students will enrich their own lives and experiences and become more culturally, emotionally, socially and spiritually intelligent members of society. Film Studies helps them to understand the diversity of the world they live in and how precious it is – that they must care for it – as well as how to find their own place in it, working with love and hope in all aspects of their lives.