Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how meaning is constructed in film through a written analysis of a prescribed film text, based on a chosen extract (lasting no more than five minutes) from that film.
The objective is for you to show an understanding of the cultural context and how meaning is created for an audience by the filmmakers’ decisions about visual and audio elements.
You will choose an extract up to 5 minutes in length from the film to demonstrate your understanding of:
• The cultural context of the chosen film text
• The use of film elements to construct meaning in the selected extract, using appropriate film vocabulary
• How the identified film elements in the selected extract relates to the cultural context of the film, to the film text as a whole, and, where appropriate, to other films, as identified by the student.
You must choose a sequence that will evidence aspects of the cultural context of the film. This should be supported with research from relevant sources.
Choose a minimum of two film elements you wish to concentrate on
Choose your five-minute extract
Take notes on how each film element conveys meaning in your extract.
Begin writing your essay. Make sure to establish the cultural context of your film, and to demonstrate a connection between this context and the identified film elements in the extract to each other, and to the chosen film text as a whole.
Write two paragraphs (total of 4 paragraphs) on each film element of your choice demonstrating how each element conveys meaning in your extract and supporting your analysis with detailed, accurate, and relevant examples from the extract and your research. Use relevant film terminology.
