Aims of the course

This is an exciting and varied course combining the academic with the practical. The aim of the film course is to create critically autonomous students who gain a wide range of skills in the study and production of film and truly make the transition from film fan to film student. They will be able to analyse a variety of film texts from different historical periods, genres and film traditions. Students will be able to apply academic approaches including concepts and theories relating to film to further enhance their interpretations and develop their theory of knowledge. Furthermore, their theoretical understanding of film will be applied to their practical work which will encourage research, creativity, practical and technical skills.

Course outline

In order to develop students’ analytical and creative ability, they will be introduced to a wide range of films from across the globe. There is a focus on the application of film language through micro analysis, key concepts such as representation, ideology, audience, narrative and institution as well as genre. Internationalism will be developed by examining films from other countries with an emphasis on movements such as Film Noir, the historical development of American cinema, Hong Kong New Wave and the horror genre for example. Students are also given the opportunity to study and present their own study of film from an international and historical context so the course remains diverse and contemporary. Students should be able to communicate their understanding through essay writing, video essay and through their own practical work.

Students will develop practical skills in different production roles through a series of film–making tasks related to their academic analysis. For example, they may be asked to produce a short film sequence in a Film Noir style, or produce a script as the screenwriter for the opening sequence for a classical Hollywood̶̶̶ film. Students will be taught scripting, storyboarding, filming and editing skills using industry standard software (Final Cut Pro X) on Apple Mac software.

Assessment Outline

SL - Textual Analysis – 30%, Comparative Study – 30%, Film Production Portfolio – 40%

HL – Textual Analysis – 20%, Comparative Study – 20%, Film Production Portfolio – 25%, Collaborative Film Project – 35%

External Assessments

• Textual Analysis - A written analysis of a five minute extract of a film from a prescribed film list set by the IB. Students must consider both the cultural context and a deconstruction of the micro-elements of film. The written analysis must be no longer that 1750 words including a list of sources used (academic referencing)

• Comparative Study – Students shall create a multi-media video essay showing research into a chosen area of film focus. Each multi-media video must compare two films from within the film focus and last ten minutes maximum.

Internal Assessments

• Film Production Portfolio – students must showcase the best of their production skills in a choice of the following roles: Director, Editor, Screenwriter, Sound Designer and Cinematographer.

  • Create two production reels for two different production roles. Each reel lasts a maximum of three minutes in length. Students will also be required to complete a three page evaluation for each film reel.

  • Create one complete short film showcasing a different role from the above lasting a maximum of three minutes in length. Students will also be required to complete a three page evaluation.

Collaborative Film Project (HL only)

Students work together in groups of two-four students to create a seven minute film of a clearly identifiable genre. Each student is assessed for one of the following roles: Director, Screenwriter, Cinematographer, Sound Designer, and Editor. In addition, each student will also produce accompanying written documentation of no more than 2000 words.

Careers

Studying film ensures you have a variety of skills in analysis, research and creativity. You learn how to critically evaluate media and film messages whilst also learning how to best create film as an art form. These production skills can open up careers in film, TV, radio and media production such as broadcast presenters, film directors, location managers and production designers. The course can also be useful for those wanting careers in advertising, public relations or events management.