Year 12

Foundations in Film Form
and Global Perspectives

In Year 12, students build a solid understanding of the core elements of film form, including cinematography, mise-en-scène, editing, sound and performance. They learn how these elements shape meaning and influence audience response, developing a critical vocabulary that will be applied across all areas of study. The course emphasises the relationship between film style and storytelling, enabling students to explore how directors and creative teams achieve their artistic vision.

Students study the contexts in which films are produced and received, considering how social, political, cultural, historical and institutional factors shape filmmaking. In Component 1, they complete a comparative study of Hollywood cinema between 1930–1990, examining both the Golden Age and the New Hollywood era, and analyse post-1995 American and British films to understand the development of modern film language and production.

In Component 2, learners begin their exploration of global filmmaking perspectives. They study five feature-length films from different countries and traditions, gaining insight into alternative styles, narrative approaches and cultural viewpoints. By the end of the year, students will have developed the ability to analyse films with precision, understand their historical and industrial contexts, and articulate their ideas with confidence,  skills essential for the challenges of Year 13.