Pupils will study roles, genres and theories of film, creating content as directors, cinematographers and editors, and sometimes as actors, writers, animators or composers.
Assessed entirely through coursework, the lion’s share of the course and assessment is on the film work created by the pupils and their reflective writing on this. Pupils create a 7 minute film of their own devising, collaboratively with their peers, and curate a portfolio of their best work in different roles, genres and theories across their time studying the course.
The film contexts (history and theories of film) are covered in the comparative study, in which students edit together a documentary film analysing two films they have chosen, and the Textual Analysis, in which pupils write a critical analysis of a 5 minute section of a chosen film, demonstrating their knowledge of film language, theory and practice.
Film is a very collaborative subject, discursive in nature, and provides a great opportunity for pupils interested in film to find their voice in the subject.
Most years half the course or more choose to study it after leaving Bryanston.
None required, but photographic experience with a camera (stills or moving images) and/or basic editing software is of benefit. A convincing love of/engagement with a variety of styles and genres is crucial.
Whilst watching films and film clips is a necessary part of this course, pupils should be aware that this process will be far from their conventional film-viewing experience. It is an interest in analysing how films are put together and convey messages to an audience, alongside an interest in learning how to make films, rather than a general love of watching films, that is essential for pupils of Film.
The Film course emphasises the importance of working individually and as a member of a group. Pupils will be required to work independently on personal investigations and will need the ability to research, plan and organise their own projects. Their final project, making film, will require taking on an examined role within a group: sensitivity, reliability and cooperation will be vital.
This course is a good preparation for HE courses in film production and theory and a useful space to experiment with all elements of directing, cinematography, editing, writing, animation, and acting.
Film and film production courses at university can lead to careers in film, TV, radio, journalism, as well as advertising and marketing.
Simon Wheeler
Head of Film
Gabe Martin
Teacher of Film
