film studies homework

6 Filmmaking Drills You Wish You Had in Film School

January 31, 2019 by Thomas Verdi

Okay, so I didn’t go to film school. I still might. Who knows.

But I have spoken with many filmmakers who’ve attended some of the best film schools in the world. NYU, USC, UCLA, Chapman, SCAD, Columbia…the list goes on. They all say they learned the most on set or in the post-production room, where they had the chance to apply the theory they learned in the classroom.

Whether they were gaffing, directing, or sound designing at a New York film school or other top film school, they all stated that working on set is when reality started to set in that life isn’t quite like a textbook.

This post won’t tell you the best camera for filmmaking on a budget (actually it will, right here: it’s the one you can get your hands on) or how to make an actual short film, but it will provide a framework of exercises that will allow you to develop and improve upon basic storytelling skills, honing your visual acuity and understanding of things. At The Film Fund, we’re big proponents of applying theory to practice. Learn as much and as often as you can, and then go do it. But start on a micro scale.

1. Watch a scene, and then transcribe it to screenplay format.

First off, watch as many movies as you can. Don’t stress yourself out, but dedicate yourself. There was a time in college when I would watch two movies every night, usually from 10:00 PM — 2:00 AM. Not including the movies I had to watch as part of my film studies homework. Don’t go nuts, but consume consume consume. It will help you identify the types of films you like, what makes a good story, and common technical aspects the films share.

That’s more of a long-term journey. For the short-term, here’s a drill: pick a scene from a movie you want. Not a terribly long one, maybe one that’s one to two minutes. For some reason, as I’m sure many of you know, one page of a screenplay generally translates to one minute on screen. Take this scene and focus on the action, dialogue, and general setting. Play and pause the scene if you have to. Take notes on everything you think is important.

Now, take these notes and start typing them into screenplay format, using the screenwriting resources here. If done correctly, you should end up with one to two pages. If it’s too long, try paring down your action or setting sentences. See our post here for some quick screenwriting tips.

Recreating a scene will help you visualize your own scenes when crafting your stories. Rebuilding someone’s vision will help you understand the visual framework they were able to put forth. If you really want to check yourself, Google search the name of the movie followed by the word “screenplay” to try and find it, and check to see if you got close. It won’t be identical, but you should have identified the big actions, settings, and dialogue.

Try this exercise with a variety of different kinds of scenes. Action-packed, dramatic, comedic, and painful scenes will and should all read differently on the page.

2. Break down this scene to its elements, and create a list of resources you would need to recreate it.

Take the scene and reduce it to its individual elements. You should do this both by watching the scene as well as reading the script you just wrote. On the page, circle everything that you might need someone’s help with creating. Props, sounds, characters, locations, vehicles, buildings, wardrobe.

Now create a separate list with two columns. In the left column, list out all of the things you’d need. On the right, list what you’d need to do to realize this element. If there’s a certain sound effect or type of music you’re not sure how to create on your own, match this element with a composer/sound designer. If there’s an elaborate medieval costume with which you don’t want to look amateurish, match this with a costume designer. See the example below:

Classical music

80s horror synth music

Detailed 18th century outfit

Francie (burlesque dancer, mid 70s)

Cozy fireplace

Online search

Costume designer

Backstage.com

My cousin’s living room

3. Record a friend answering nonsensical questions, and create a dramatic story from the audio.

This drill requires some gear. Since it’s a technical exercise, we recommend getting a pair of over-ear headphones, an external recording device, and a shotgun or lavalier microphone. In practice, especially for documentaries or ultra-low budget productions, any recording gear you can get your hands on will do the job, even if it’s a smartphone with a headphone mic plugged in. But this drill is specifically for audio recording, so try to get some gear either from a friend, library, school, or maybe a company like KitSplit .

Example of products (no affiliate links or sponsorship here):

• Zoom recorder
• Sony MDR headphones
• Rode NTG-2 shotgun microphone and pistol grip
• Any brand lavalier mic

You can use any brands you’d like. These are just a few examples I thought of quickly. All you really need is a recording device on which you can adjust the levels and gain (how sensitive the microphone is), a microphone, and a pair of headphones to monitor the sound.

Now that you’ve (hopefully) got a handle on your gear, write down five questions that will require detailed answers. They don’t have to be about anything meaningful, just things that will take someone a while to answer. You want questions that won’t require you to ask any type of follow-up questions so you can concentrate on and monitor the live audio the entire time. Print out these questions. Some examples:

• Tell me a story from college that made you see the world differently
• Why do you think some people are evil, some people are good, and some people just don’t care?
• Try and name fifteen different kinds of cheese, and then tell me your top three and why.
• What are your favorite condiments, and why do you think condiments exist in the world?

Grab a friend and record their answers. Make sure to get a separate track for room tone. Then import the audio into your editing software and see how it came out. Play around with cutting the audio into different sections and trimming out unnecessary content or pauses.

Make a story out of the nonsensical questions. Set it to music or stock footage. Go nuts. If you create something really cool, send it to us!

4. Look at stills from a particular movie, and identify the source of light.

When I bought some of my first lighting equipment packages and camera, I took some lighting and composition courses offered by the camera store. My instructor lit a lot of sets for food shows for big television networks. Needless to say, I got a crash course in professional set lighting.

While he primarily lit food, the guy did something at first that surprised me. He sat me down at a computer and started searching for stills from Breaking Bad. 

He then had me identify from where the sources of light eminated in each scene. Was there a light coming through a window, mimicing sunlight? Is there a practical light, a floor lamp maybe, in the middle of the scene, and are there any other lights? Is the lighting hard or soft? Are they using gels or colored LEDs to manipulate the color temperature? What are they trying to accomplish with this lighting?

In your house or apartment, light a similar scene to one you’ve found online. It can even be a simple interview setup. If you don’t have access to film or photography lighting, use practical lights such as lamps and ceiling lights to achieve an effect you want. Just make sure the bulbs are the same kind of temperature (incandescent vs. LED, for example).

5. Direct a real scene from a film you like.

Choose a monologue scene from a movie you like. One that isn’t super popular, with which the majority of people wouldn’t be familiar. Now take this scene and Google search it along with the word “monologue.” Recite it to yourself in the mirror, over and over until you are one with the monologue. You don’t need to memorize it. Just feel it, and understand it deeply and emotionally. Print out a few copies.

Now grab a friend. Preferably someone who doesn’t have a ton of acting experience. Working with non-actors will teach you patience, and it will force you to get creative with your direction.

Have the person recite the monologue to you once. Tell them it was good, but you want them to make a few tweaks to their performance to convey a different kind of emotion, Give them commands to try and tweak their performance into the kind of emotion you want to elicit. Depending on the mood of the material, these commands could be gentle, firm, or even angrily commanded. Everyone directs differently. Some like to mimic the lines for the actor themselves (I try to shy away from this method, or at lest keep it as a last resort just to showcase which part of the dialogue I want emphasized and let the actor bring their own style). Some directors like to ask actors questions about their lives, some like to compare the style they want to other movies.

Use whatever works for you in maintaining a trusting relationship with your actor. Directing is about building trust with your cast and crew so they can accomplish your vision. in this case, your vision is to recreate the performance in the original monologue.

6. Create a montage.

If you really want to try an advanced exercise, go back and film everything you’ve done in the first five drills. Make sure they’re all well-lit with clean audio, and that you’ve gotten performances that will help you tell a story.

Put all the audio and video footage into editing software.

Got an idea for a pitch but need funding to make your short film? Check out our film funding opportunities .

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Distance learning resources for media and film studies.

Hints and tips - 5 minute read

This blog was originally published on 16 April 2020

In this blog I’ll be highlighting some online media and film resources that might be useful to support distance learning activities.

GCSE Media Studies resources

Our website has guides and factsheets which students can access covering a number of exam topics including:

• The Lego Movie film
• The Lego Movie video game

We also have downloadable student worksheets on the music topic and to support students with preliminary activities for the NEA .

BBC Bitesize covers all nine of the media forms and the key areas of the media theoretical framework. The Coombe Media & Film Studies YouTube channel has some really helpful revision videos for both GCSE Media papers.

A Level Media Studies resources

We have factsheets on the set film , radio and video game products for the Media Industries and Audiences topic.

There is a factsheet on the required academic ideas and arguments, and a resource showing how they can be applied to LFTV Drama.

We also have a range of student worksheets and activities accompanying our delivery guides for the news and LFTV drama topics.

The essential media theory website has a number of resources and worksheets focused on the set media theorists. Crash Course have a Media Literacy playlist which covers relevant topics including media ownership and media influence.

The BBC’s Media Show podcast and the Media section of The Guardian website are both good ways for students to keep up to date with key media issues. Radio 4’s Thinking Outside the Boxset series is a useful look at the impact of new technologies on narrative and audiences for television drama.

The Media Insider YouTube channel covers lots of key concepts for both GCSE and A Level Media Studies. The Guardian Education Centre has some really useful resources and suggested activities for teaching news media.

A Level Film Studies resources

We have a range of delivery guides which include suggested activities and key information for all the exam topics. There is also a guide to the European Film Movements and downloadable student worksheets for the Contemporary British and US Film topic.

The Unspooled podcast has episodes focusing on a number of the set films including Do the Right Thing, Vertigo and Sunrise. Cinephilia & Beyond is a good source of articles, interviews and resources on a range of film topics covering some set films. It also includes a section on short films which may be useful for students completing research for the NEA.

No Film School have a YouTube playlist of video essays covering topics including the French New Wave and German Expressionism .

Crash Course is also a useful source of video guides for A Level Film Studies with YouTube playlists on Film History , Film Production and Film Criticism looking at a number of key concepts, skills and set films.

BBC iPlayer’s Focus on Film section includes Mark Kermode's Secrets of Cinema series , interviews with the directors of a number of set films, and the Inside Cinema series of short films looking at different movie tropes.

The Business of Film Radio 4 documentary series covers a range of issues in film production and may also be useful for A Level Media students too.

The Yale Film Analysis Guide is really helpful for developing students’ understanding of the micro-elements of film form, and would also be useful for A Level Media students looking at media language in television drama and music videos. Film Sound is a useful source of explanations of a wide range of sound techniques.

Developing practical skills

To help Media and Film students develop their understanding of practical skills BBC Academy and Vimeo's Video School both have lots of useful guides. RocketJump Film School has a series of playlists covering different elements of film production and includes helpful guides to a range of techniques.

Indie Film Hustle have lots of blogs on practical techniques and key filmmakers and film movements. Screen Skills have a range of job profiles and information to help students research potential career paths.

General media and film resources

For more general activities both Into Film and Film Education have a wide range of guides and suggested tasks. The BBFC website has a student guide and range of activities (including rate your own trailer!) which will help students understand film regulation.

Future Learn have a number of online courses which could be used as independent learning or transition projects. Their courses include Film Distribution , Gender Representation in the Media  and Games Development Careers .

There are lots of online platforms, apps and free to download software which students can use to develop their media production skills. Options for image editing include:

https://www.gimp.org/ https://www.photopea.com/ https://glimpse-editor.org/ https://www.getpaint.net/ https://pixlr.com/

Stay connected

Let us know if you can add any suggested distance learning resources to the comments section below. If you have any questions please do email us at [email protected] or call us 01223 553998. You can also follow and tweet us @OCR_Media_Film where we’ll be sharing any other useful resources we come across.

About the author

John Hibbert – Media and Film Studies Subject Advisor John Hibbert has worked at OCR since April 2018 as Subject Advisor for Media and Film Studies. Prior to joining OCR John taught a range of Media and Film Studies qualifications in secondary schools, and was a head of department for the last eight years. Predictably, in his spare time he is a keen filmgoer, and in addition enjoys reading and miserable indie music.

By the same author

• Assessing the Media Studies NEA component at GCSE and A Level
• A Level Media Studies - Get smart with academic ideas and arguments

Film Studies Unit 2b - Documentary

Week 1 -unit overview and key theories, lesson powerpoint.

The powerpoint used in this week 's lessons is to the right.  You can look through this on this page or you can download it to your computer.

Scroll down for lesson resources and homework details.

Lesson Content

This week's lessons covered the following key areas:

Unit overview

Documentary overview

Michael Moore's Theory

Kim Longinottos' Theory

Scroll down the page for information on the homework task and resources used in the lessons.

Homework 

Watch a documentary film of your choice.  Use the worksheet (linked below) to take notes of how typical this film is of the documentary genre and whether it conforms to the ideas of Michael Moore or Kim Longinotto. Be prepared to feedback in your next lesson.

Lesson Resources

Techniques of documentary film.

A list of the commonly used techniques in documentary film (with explanations)

Documentary Research Worksheet

Use this worksheet to help you take notes on the film you watch for your homework task.

Back to Unit Hub

Go to week 2.

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Articles & Advice > Performing and Visual Arts > Blog

So You Want to Go to Film School

We asked Barbara Freedman Doyle, author of Make Your Movie: What You Need to Know About the Business and Politics of Filmmaking, to explain what the world of crane shots and red carpets is like.

by Barbara Freedman Doyle Author, Film Industry Professional, Educator at Chapman University

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: May 11, 2012

Do you have what it takes to survive film school—and carve your niche in such a competitive industry? We asked Barbara Freedman Doyle, author of Make Your Movie: What You Need to Know About the Business and Politics of Filmmaking , to explain what the world of crane shots and red carpets is like. She also breaks down exactly what you need to consider when searching for the film school that fits you!    

Dustin has been standing in the dark alley for three hours. He’s shivering in his parka. He’s set the lights so that the alley looks more threatening than it actually is. Samantha and Beth are spraying graffiti on the cement wall behind them. They’re using paint that will wash off—that’s the agreement that Jen, the producer, made with the landlord before he’d allow them to shoot behind his building. Ryan, the director, confers with Gavin, the cinematographer. The assistant director calls for quiet on the set. Everyone freezes. The team has been there since 6:00 p.m. and they’ll be there until sunrise, breaking only at midnight for “lunch.” It is 10:00 p.m. They have to make the most of the darkness. Their homework assignment is to tell a story that is fresh and authentic, and that will make the audience—their production class—care about the plight of the protagonist. As they shoot the scene over and over, determined to get it right, Jen turns to her sister Ali, who has come along to help out. “Welcome to film school,” she says with a smile. Ali, who has a degree in film studies, is incredulous. “You think this is fun?”

Related: Find colleges with film, theater, and other related majors here

Ali loves watching and reading about films as much as her sister’s production team loves making them. Nothing makes Ali happier than discovering a little-known cinematic gem and introducing it to her friends. Jen, on the other hand, loves the life of the set. She’s a “people person” with a lot of energy and organizational skills. She’s interested in finding great scripts, but also in the entrepreneurial and operational aspects of getting those scripts to the screen. She’s combining her film major with a minor in business. Her school offers a “Semester in Hollywood” and the existence of that internship program was key in her choice of colleges. Gavin, the cinematographer, started as a photography major, then became obsessed with cinematography. Although he is required to take film history and aesthetics classes, he really doesn’t care for them. His personal goal is to hone his skills on all shooting formats (film and digital) and on as many cameras as he possibly can. And Ryan, the director, is interested in everything about film but what he really wants to do is write and direct. Do any of these students sound like you?

Film programs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some programs emphasize production while others focus on the study of film as an academic discipline. It is unusual to find a film program that will fulfill every future filmmaker or film scholar’s expectation. If you are thinking about applying to a film school or program, here are some factors you will want to take into consideration:

Are you absolutely passionate about film or are you thinking about film just because you like movies? There’s nothing wrong with studying something you like, but film majors tend to be hardcore. They love film. They eat, drink, and sleep movies. Although they certainly take part in on-campus life, they tend to hang out together doing what film students do best: watching and making films. If this doesn’t sound like your idea of paradise, or it sounds a little extreme, perhaps you’ll want to re-think the idea of majoring in favor of finding a college or university that offers film minors or more general media and communications programs.

Don’t go by “brand names”

The best film school for you may not be the most well known. You have to look at each school’s individual programs and departments. Check the websites, and read the online catalogues. Do the research necessary with any college search, but through the lens of a soon-to-be filmmaker. (This article, “ Starting the College Search ,” can help get you started!)

Also keep in mind that program titles can be deceiving. Will you earn a B.F.A. in film studies or film production, or in a specific discipline, such as screenwriting? How much variety and/or focus in your studies do you want? If you’re a writer and that’s pretty much all you want to do, how happy will you be taking editing and production design? If you want to make films but aren’t sure of an area of specialization, will you chafe at the restrictions of a program where you are required to select an emphasis and stick to it? How quickly do you want to dive in? Some schools prefer that students acquire a solid liberal arts foundation before even beginning their major classes. If you are on the fence about these majors, that may be a great option for you, but if you know exactly what you’re interested in and are anxious to get involved, you might not enjoy it.

What is film school really like?

The truth is, film schools vary, and to figure out what you’ll encounter—and if it’s right for you—you’ll need to do some research and ask a lot of questions…

Is it an artsy school with a lot of freedom? Are the film courses just enhancements to the English or theatre department or is it a separate entity? What’s the atmosphere like—loose, social, and collaborative, or ambitious and driven? Which feels best for you? 

What’s the course availability like? Are the courses that most interest you offered only once per year or every semester? Are the courses available only to majors or to students in other disciplines? Who has registration priority? How does the film program fit in with the rest of the college or university? Is it seen as separate and somehow less serious than the English or political science departments? (This may affect the budget of the department, which in turn affects the resources available, the student-faculty ratio, etc.)

Size matters

Other than a few lecture classes, you should look for small classes (20 students or fewer). Film school is all about workshops: throwing around ideas, the execution of creative work, and the cycle of critique, revision, and more critique. You need individual mentorship. You’re not going to get that if your professor sees you as just a face in the crowd.

Experience matters too

Who will your professors be? If you are interested in a scholarly approach to film, you will want to see where your potential teachers were educated and whether their work is frequently published. If you want to be a screenwriter, director, producer, editor, or production designer, you’ll want the people teaching to have actually done the professional work to which you aspire. The film industry is highly competitive, and if you want to break in, you’ll need to learn from those who have successfully navigated the creative, political, and logistical obstacles themselves. Usually the schools in close proximity to the production centers of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago make a point of creating bonds with people from the industry to serve as faculty or to at least supplement their faculty, whether as mentors, panelists, or guest lecturers.

Life after film school

What happens to your potential film school’s alumni? Are they out there doing what you want to do? Most film schools have active alumni offices that can help you with this kind of information. You’ll want to have a sense of whether the undergraduate film studies alumni were accepted into the best graduate programs, and whether the undergrad film production majors are now working in the industry.

The currency of being current

What are the school’s facilities like? A program doesn’t necessarily need a warehouse full of top-of-the-line, state-of-the-art equipment to give you a solid understanding of historical, current, and future film practices. However, media is constantly evolving and your classes, faculty, and equipment should be up-to-date on current industry standards. This means you should do some research so you’re up-to-date on current industry standards too.

What kind of extracurricular activities does your prospective program offer? Are there travel opportunities? Does the school have an active internship office aimed at helping students gain relevant professional experience and make professional connections? These things will not only enhance your college experience but your future job search as well.

People like you

It’s important to speak with a wide variety of students enrolled in the program you’re exploring, not just the one or two names you get from the admission office. If you don’t know anyone currently enrolled, ask your friends, neighbors, and college counselors if they do. Ask the admission representatives for a few additional names and then, when you e-mail those students, ask them for a couple more students they think might be of help. You may get 10 different impressions from 10 different students—but a pattern will often emerge.

There are hundreds of film schools and film departments out there. If you do just a little research, you can find the best fit for you. Maybe there will be surprises. And maybe you’ll find that although you thought you wanted to study one area, when you actually see the course choice, a different area looks better.

College is not just about the degree; it’s about opportunities. By researching carefully and stopping yourself from being locked in to preconceptions, you will expand your world and your chance to find a school where you’ll truly thrive—and how to get there.

PS You can search for scholarships for film school here too! 

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About Barbara Freedman Doyle

Barbara Freedman Doyle began her career as Assistant to the Senior VP of Worldwide Production at Tri-Star Pictures and continued as Coordinator/Production Supervisor on projects for CBS, NBC, Disney, TNT, Showtime, Hearst Entertainment, Hallmark, 20th Century Fox, and more. Doyle is currently Chair of the Film Division of Chapman University and author of the new book,  Make Your Movie: What You Need to Know About the Business and Politics of Filmmaking .

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Intro to Film Studies: Five Elements of Film

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City of God A-Level Film Studies guide, textbook, guidebook, revision guide

Subject: Media studies

Age range: 16+

Resource type: Unit of work

Last updated

22 January 2023

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Thanks for taking a look at my resource. This resource is a 60 page, 18,000 word guide to the A-Level Film studies film City of God for the WJEC/Eduqas board.

This guide is designed so that it can be printed out and students simply work straight onto it and therefore works brilliantly as a workbook for individual lessons, a whole half-term, for homework, revision, distance learning or for taking the material and turning into other formats such as creating your own PowerPoints.

There is so much in this guide that it’s almost impossible to list, but some key aspects include context, a detailed analysis of the film, examinations of Third Cinema and Cinema Novo as well as work on representation and aesthetics. For a full preview of the booklet, PLEASE FIND A PREVIEW AT THIS LINK:

This will save you not hours of work, but WEEKS worth of work and preparation and I guarantee will be worth the download. Your download includes both an editable Word version AND a high quality PDF, ready for printing or sharing immediately.

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HOW EDUCATORS CAN USE TEACHWITHMOVIES.ORG

Table of Contents

Introduction | Social-Emotional Learning | History/Social Studies Science | Drama | Literature/Language Arts Foreign Languages | Music | ESL

Introduction

• The historical and artistic merit of each recommended film has been carefully assessed.
• The TeachWithMovies.org Subject Matter Index lists films by area of the curriculum. We also index films by appropriate age, title, social-emotional learning topic, etc. The best way to navigate the site is through our list of indexes.
• Learning Guides for each film describe its benefits and possible problems. Helpful background, discussion questions, projects, and links to the internet are also provided.
• Lesson plans can easily be adapted from the Learning Guides. For example:
• Discussion questions, class projects (or other portions of the Learning Guide) can be copied from the Internet and pasted onto word processing files, edited to suit the needs of the class, and then reproduced as an assignment sheet or classroom handout;
• Information from the Helpful Background section can be used to stimulate class discussions or as the basis for lectures;
• Vocabulary and spelling lists can be developed from the “Building Vocabulary” section.

Films can be used to effectively extend the class period. All of the films on TeachWithMovies.org were designed to entertain a mass audience by some of the best minds in the movie industry. Most students will enjoy watching them.

Assign films to be viewed outside of class, either at home with students’ families, or with groups of other students. Focus on one particular film or, at the beginning of a grading period, give students four or five choices and require that they watch and report on one or more of them. In the lower grades, parents can be asked to watch and discuss films with their children. The Learning Guides can be printed out from the Net and sent home for that purpose. The written work required of the students can be a few sentences, a journal kept throughout the school year or a major report.

Movies can also be shown in class as an entertaining alternative educational experience and serve as the focus for class discussions and assignments.

Your creativity is the only limit to the educational use of selected films. In 2004 TeachWithMovies.org plans to publish online a comprehensive list of lesson plans and suggestions for using feature-length films as educational tools. Send us your suggestions.

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Social-Emotional Learning

The teachers at Canyon Charter Elementary School in Los Angeles used TeachWithMovies to involve parents in the school’s focus on Social-Emotional Learning. Each month the school emphasized a different value, such as sportsmanship, friendship, respect or honesty. The teachers selected several movies from the Social-Emotional Learning Index that related to the monthly topic. Printed Learning Guides were made available for students as necessary. The films chosen were available at local video stores or could be inexpensively purchased on the Internet. To obtain extra credit, students would watch one of the movies with their families, talk briefly about the film, and submit a written response to one of three discussion questions posed by the teachers. Sample assignments were: (1) Sportsmanship and Friendship: Cool Runnings, Brian’s Song, and Angels in the Outfield; (2) Respect: Captains Courageous, Boystown, and To Kill A Mockingbird; and (3) Character growth through taking responsibility for your own actions: Quiz Show, The Miracle Worker and A Christmas Carol. Teachers reported that the children were excited about the project and talked about the films with each other.

The concept of using films to teach Social-Emotional Learning or ethics can be adapted to any age group, only the emphasis changes. See the topics listed in the Social-Emotional Learning Index and the Ethical Emphasis Index. (TeachWithMovies.org is associated with Character Counts and uses The Six Pillars of Character to organize ethical principles.)

History/Social Studies

TeachWithMovies.org recommends more than a hundred popular feature-length films which contain reasonably accurate portrayals of events in American history. Simply go to the U.S. History and Culture section of the TeachWithMovies.org Subject Matter Index and select several films which relate to the period being studied in class. We have Learning Guides for at least another 50 films on topics relating to World History and Other Cultures. At the beginning of the semester, you can give students a list of films and ask them to watch and critique some of the films on the list. Students can also be asked to keep a journal on the films they have watched. Discussion questions or projects can be taken from the Learning Guides and assigned.

TWM features more than 30 films on science, technology, aviation, space exploration, and medicine. If you want to inspire girls to become scientists, tell them that a woman was the first person to win two Nobel Prizes in science. Then suggest that they watch the classic, Madame Curie. (Boys love this film, too.) For 4th – 9th grades, have students watch Galileo: On the Shoulders of Giants, which is crammed with delightful physics lessons. Extra credit homework assignments can easily be adapted from the Learning Guides for these films.

There are many excellent and accessible renditions of Shakespeare on film. We offer Learning Guides to Twelfth Night, or As You Like It, Much Ado About Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Julius Caesar. Al Pacino’s entertaining and informative film-lecture, Looking For Richard, will make Shakespeare’s Richard III meaningful and introduce students to the play’s historical context. TWM also provides Learning Guides to modern dramatic works from Oscar Wilde to Arthur Miller. They include: An Ideal Husband; The Importance of Being Earnest; A Man for All Seasons; Pygmalion; All My Sons; The Crucible; The Glass Menagerie; A Raisin in the Sun and Cyrano de Bergerac Each of these films are dramatic works of art and can be studied, compared to the play, or serve as a reward for work well done.

One high school teacher introduces her students to Walt Whitman by showing the film Beautiful Dreamers. This is a charming story about Whitman’s friendship with a Canadian physician and his visit to the mental hospital supervised by his friend. The teacher tells us that seeing the film motivates her students, even students in average classes, to tackle Whitman’s poetry.

Many classics of literature have been made into movies. See the Literature Section of the Subject Index. After the class has read the book, you can ask students to watch the film at home, individually or in groups, and then write an essay on the differences between the film and the book, what new understanding of the story they came to after watching the film, etc.

Some literature is difficult for modern readers. Movie renditions can introduce and help students comprehend these works. For example, many teachers contend that watching films based on Jane Austen novels enables their students to better understand, appreciate and enjoy the books. See e.g., the Learning Guide to Pride and Prejudice. Showing the film before reading the book can help poor readers comprehend challenging texts boosting them to a higher level of critical thinking and language analysis.

Foreign Languages

Many foreign language films are sold or rented with subtitles. Teachers of foreign languages treasure these films for their ability to introduce students to the culture and attitudes of foreign countries. Moreover, the accent and inflection of native speakers will also be presented by films. To focus students on the foreign language while they watch the film, teachers can ask them to spell and obtain the definitions of ten or twenty words used in the film.

Music, Band and Orchestra

Twenty-two films dealing with all aspects of music and spanning all grades are recommended by TeachWithMovies.org. For example, the documentary Small Wonders entrances students ages 6 – 8 by showing children their own age practicing the violin, taking class and performing. This film will be interesting to older students for the same reason. Its Hollywood counterpart, Music of the Heart, is suitable for ages 12 – 16. Elementary school students will be thrilled with the “Composers Series,” films on the model of Beethoven Lives Upstairs, which combine actual events from the lives of great classical composers with a fictional child character. These films are filled with the music of the composer that they feature. The interest of older children can be sparked with The Buddy Holly Story, Thirty-Two Short Films About Glenn Gould, Amadeus, etc. For an assignment, simply select some of the discussion questions or projects listed for the film. Alternatively, you can ask students to read the Learning Guide and respond to one of the Discussion Questions.

Musicals are also favorites of children in all age groups. We offer Learning Guides to 15 musicals from films like West Side Story. See the Drama/Musicals Section of the Subject Index.

English as a Second Language

Students studying English as a second language can be assigned a number of films with themes relating to words they are expected to learn. This will broaden their understanding of the words. They will also hear contemporary English and its inflection.

DO YOU KNOW?

Each and every film director, maker, editor, crew should know about 8 Elements of a Film. Do you know?

Film Studies Movie List – 15 Best Movies To Study

Watching movies is a great way to learn about film and film studies. But which movie is best for learning? This blog aims to answer this question by providing a film studies movie list. Each movie has been selected based on the specific features that make it ideal for film studies, such as its historical significance, its aesthetic value, or its film-making techniques. So what are you waiting for? Start watching these movies and see how much easier film studies become!

Table of Contents

How To Choose The Best Film For Film Studies?

Studying film can be fun and rewarding, but it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why it’s important to choose something that will challenge your viewing habits and allow you to explore different aspects of film theory. When choosing a movie for film studies, it’s important to consider the elements of cinema. These include the camera, sound, editing, and motion.

When it comes to choosing the best film for film studies, you have a lot of options. There are classic films that are highly popular and timeless, as well as more recent works that might be more relevant to your interests. And then there are independent films that may not receive the same recognition or exposure but often hold greater artistic value.

To start, it is important to decide what type of filmmaker you admire most. Are you interested in famous directors like Steven Spielberg or Martin Scorsese? Or do you prefer lesser-known masters such as David Lynch or Pedro Almodóvar? Once you have an idea of who inspires you, consider looking at their entire body of work rather than just one particular movie. This way, you can get a sense of how they approach filmmaking and whether their style would be compatible with yours.

Additionally, it is helpful to consider what themes or messages the movie might contain. This can help inform your filmmaking projects in the future. So, whether you’re a beginner or a film enthusiast, there’s always room for another great movie!

Best Time To Study A Movie For Film Studies

The best time to study a movie for film studies is typical during the week when classes are not in session. This is because class loads can often interfere with your ability to focus and study, which can impact your grade.

Furthermore, you will have more uninterrupted time to review the material and apply it to future assignments.

Of course, there are times when studying at other times of the day may be more beneficial. If you’re struggling with understanding specific concepts or challenges while watching a movie, then breaking up the studying into smaller chunks may help better absorb what you’re watching.

And finally, don’t forget that practicing makes perfect! So if possible, take some time each night after finishing homework or during breaks between classes to watch one or two movies from your course selection list and analyze them critically.

15 Worth Watching Movies To Study For Film Studies

Watching movies can be a great way to learn about different cultures, learn history, and even learn some new skills. And if you’re planning on studying film for your film studies courses, then you’re going to want to watch some of the best films out there. Here are 15 worth watching, all of which are prolific for film studies.

1. Space Odyssey

Many film critics would say that Space Odyssey is one of the best movies for film studies, and there are a few good reasons why. Firstly, it was directed by two-time Academy Award winner Stanley Kubrick, who used innovative visual effects to create an atmospheric and visually captivating movie experience. Secondly, the storyline is rich with symbolism and nods to classic mythology which can provide teachers and students with clues about how films work as art forms.

In addition, Space Odyssey features some of the most memorable characters in movie history including HAL 9000 (a computer that becomes sentient), David Bowman (the protagonist), Monolith (an alien artifact related to evolution), Dr. Heywood Floyd (the scientist who helps Bowman escape from Atlantis), and Teldar Chase (a rival astronaut). All these elements make space Odyssey a great choice for film study classes or general interest screenings alike!

2. Double Identity

If you’re looking for an exciting, thought-provoking film to watch, then Double Identity may be a perfect choice. It is a thriller that takes place in both the present day and the 1960s and asks critical questions about freedom of expression, identity politics, race relations, and violence.

The cast includes Academy Award winner Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady), David Oyelowo (Selma), Chris O’Dowd (Bridesmaids), Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live), Michael Stuhlbarg (A Serious Man), Richard Jenkins( Mud ), Stanly Phillips( Boyz n The Hood ), Simu Liu( Moonlight ), Amala Ratna Zandile Dlaminjo () …to name just a few!

Double Identity was directed by Billy Wilder who has earned several awards for his previous films. If you’re looking to add another gripping movie to your viewing list – one that will leave you thinking long after it’s over – then make sure to check out Double Identity!

3. Godfather

While many great films can be studied in film school, it is hard to argue against Godfather as one of the best. It is a complex and sophisticated masterpiece that has been critically acclaimed by audiences and filmmakers for over 40 years.

The story follows Michael Corleone as he rises from small-time criminal boss to Hollywood tycoon, all while remaining loyal to his family’s mafia empire. The acting performances are legendary, the cinematography stunning, and the screenplay is jaw-droppingly well written. In addition, it offers a unique look into 1970s American society and culture that cannot be found in any other movie.

If you’re interested in studying cinema or drama at the university level then Godfather should be on your list of movies to watch!

4. The Searchers

The Searchers is without a doubt one of the most iconic and critically acclaimed movies ever made. It has been praised for its tense, atmospheric scenes, nuanced character development, and powerful storytelling. Whether you are a student studying film or an enthusiast just looking to enjoy some good entertainment, The Searchers is definitely worth watching.

While The Searchers may not be everyone’s favorite movie, it is certainly a worthy addition to any film studies curriculum. This classic Western was directed by John Ford and stars Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. It tells the story of Ethan Edwards (Roy Rogers), who searches for his niece who has been kidnapped by Comanche warriors.

The plot is suspenseful and the acting superb, making this one movie that you don’t want to miss when studying cinema!

5. Citizen Kane

Citizen Kane is often regarded as one of the best movies for film studies. It has depth, symbolism, and a complex story that can be dissected and analyzed endlessly. Aside from being an excellent movie to watch, it also offers many opportunities for classroom discussion and debate.

Citizen Kane was directed by Orson Welles in 1941 and is based on the life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The screenplay was written by Orson Welles with Joseph Cotten in mind for the role of Charles Foster Kane.

The story follows Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles), who undergoes a dramatic transformation after he loses his status as governor of California and nearly all his money due to bad investments.”

Aspects such as flashbacks, dream sequences, deep dialogue scenes, and multiple plot lines layered upon each other make Citizen Kane a rich source material for Film Studies classes at universities around the world.

6. Breathless

Breathless is one of the best movies for film studies. It was directed by Jean-Luc Godard and it features a star-studded cast that includes Audrey Tautou, Brigitte Bardot, Alain Delon, and Omar Sy.

The movie follows two friends who rebel against the French culture of conformity during the early 1960s. They experiment with new styles and modes of living that are banned by society at large. This includes dressing in unusual clothes, exploration of drug use, and sexual liberation, as well as a general disregard for conventional morality.

Although Breathless is primarily an entertainment vehicle with a certain level of artistry involved (e.g., cinematography), its themes are nevertheless richly provocative and deserving of scholarly analysis due to their unique social context within France at the time made. So if you’re looking for a thrilling cinematic experience combined with deep insights into cinema history, then look no further than Breathless!

7. Raging Bull

Some viewers may find Raging Bull to be a challenging and intense film, while others might find it more approachable. Regardless of your feelings, there is no doubt that this movie is worth watching for film studies.

Raging Bull was directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta, one of the most celebrated prizefighters in history.

The story follows La Motta’s career from his early days fighting on the streets of New York to his time at the top of his game. The fight scenes are visceral and exciting, and you will never look at boxing in the same way again after watching this masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned student or new to cinema study altogether, Raging Bull is an essential addition to your collection!

8. Seven Samurai

9. pulp fiction.

While many people might agree that Pulp Fiction is one of the greatest movies ever made, it’s not without its critics. For those who are new to film studies or have never watched it, it can be difficult to know what all the hype is about.

This iconic 1995 crime drama is without a doubt one of the most fascinating films for film studies. It has been used as an inspiration for countless movies and TV shows, and its dense narrative scenes and tight dialogue are sure to fascinate students.

So, should you watch Pulp Fiction? If you’re looking for a movie that will transport you into another world and make you laugh out loud (and sometimes cry), then yes, absolutely! Quentin Tarantino masterfully weaves together violence with comedy in an intricate plot full of twists and turns. Whether viewing it as a standalone film or part of a film study curriculum, you won’t regret watching this masterpiece.

10. Open City

Open City is a gripping drama that takes place in the aftermath of World War II. It tells the story of two friends, one Jewish and one Catholic, who are forced to live side-by-side after the Nazis take over their city. Despite their differences, they must work together to survive and protect what remains of their community.

The plot is intricately woven and flows seamlessly between scenes with compelling storytelling that will keep you on your toes until the end. The acting is top-notch, making Open City an excellent choice for film studies courses or general entertainment purposes. And when it comes to historical dramas, few can compare with this title!

Additionally, the acting skills of the cast are fantastic and will inspire students to take on roles in their filmmaking projects.

11. Battleship Potemkin

If you’re a fan of classic movies and enjoy exploring different films, Battleship Potemkin may be the perfect candidate for you. It is one of the most iconic films ever made and has been dubbed as one of the best movies for film studies.

Battleship Potemkin is set during World War II, and it tells the story of soldiers who are forced to fight on board a battleship that is captained by Captain Nikita Khrushchev (Stanislavski). The ship arrives at their destination only to find out that their enemy was hoaxed – everyone was deceived into thinking that an attack was imminent. As a result, morale decreases among the troops aboard the ship, and chaos ensues.

This movie offers viewers an interesting insight into war fever and propaganda techniques used in Stalin’s Soviet Union. Additionally, it features some striking visual effects that have never been replicated before or since. If you’re looking for something special to add to your film collection or want to explore cinema from another perspective, Battleship Potemkin should be on your list!

12. 12 Angry Men

While there are many great films for film studies, 12 Angry Men is one of the best. The screenplay by Archibald MacLeish is thought-provoking and suspenseful, making it a perfect choice to use in a college course on cinema. Whether you’re studying narrative structure or screenwriting techniques, this movie will be an invaluable resource.

In addition, the acting (particularly that of Henry Fonda) is top-notch, so you won’t miss any important details while watching it.

13. Nosferatu

While there are many great movies for film studies, Nosferatu may be one of the most underrated. This 1922 drama was directed by F.W. Murnau and stars Max Schreck as Count Dracula. It is considered to be a classic horror movie that has been influential in shaping the genre later on.

Several factors make Nosferatu an excellent choice for film studies students: it is well-acted, atmospheric, and suspenseful (from start to finish). Additionally, its macabre storyline provides plenty of fodder for discussion and analysis.

Finally, the cinematography is impeccable (especially considering it was made over 100 years ago!). If you’re looking for a truly classic Hollywood movie experience, then look no further than Nosferatu!

14. Metropolis

Metropolis is one of the most critically acclaimed and beloved movies for film studies, and it has a lot to offer any student of the art form. First, Metropolis is an expertly made science fiction movie that was released in 1927. It employs unique techniques such as cymatics, which were often used in advertising at the time to create an immersive experience for its viewers.

Additionally, Metropolis also stars some of Hollywood’s top actors including Rudolph Valentino and Emil Jannings who give amazing performances that are still admired by cinema lovers today. And last but not least, Metropolis has a strong narrative that flows smoothly from start to finish making it easy for students to follow along and understand everything that is happening onscreen.

15. Shadows

If you’re a film lover, then Shadows is one of the best movies for your curriculum. This movie is directed by John Cassavetes and tells the story of an American painter who travels to Mexico in search of his muse.

Along the way, he meets sinister characters that may have left their mark on him psychologically and physically.

The visuals are stunning and will leave you spellbound as you explore Tally Hall Mansion and other locations in Mexican Gothic splendor.

And while this isn’t a particularly easy watch due to its complex plot line, it is well worth your time when finishing up your film studies course!

Read more: 6 Best Books On Documentary Filmmaking

FAQs About Film Studies Movie List

Here are some common questions about the best books on documentary filmmaking. People frequently want to know the answers to these questions. Take a glance at the brief answers to learn more within a short time.

Which degree is best for the film?

A degree in film may be the best option for you if your goal is to work as a cinematographer. Cinematography requires an understanding of camera operation and lighting, which can only be acquired through intensive coursework.

Additionally, many cinematographers start their careers by working on smaller projects before moving on to bigger ones. So, while it might not be the quickest route to success, a degree in the film could ultimately lead you to a successful career in movie making.

What should be included in a film study?

A film study is a critical component of any filmmaking program and should be tailored to the individual student. A film study should include an analysis of the film’s plot, characters, and cinematography.

However, some general guidelines can help in developing an effective film study. This includes studying the technical aspects of cinema (cinematography, editing, sound), understanding storytelling principles, and analyzing core theatrical genres (comedy, drama). Additionally, you may want to focus on specific films or directors to understand their approach to cinematography or story-telling better.

Moreover, it’s important to keep up with current trends in filmmaking by watching world premieres and attending industry events where you can network with other filmmakers. And finally, make use of online resources like YouTube videos and blogs to supplement your learning experience.

Should I finish high school to pursue filmmaking?

The best way to pursue filmmaking may vary depending on your individual goals and skills. However, if you are interested in pursuing filmmaking as a career, it is generally advised that you graduate from high school. This will give you a solid foundation upon which to build and help improve your chances of success.

Once you have graduated from high school, there are many resources available to help you become a successful filmmaker. Some of the most important include taking classes at film schools or participating in workshops led by professionals. It’s also beneficial to take part in festivals and market your films through online platforms like social media or cinema halls.

Ultimately, becoming a filmmaker requires hard work and dedication but can be immensely rewarding when it pays off.

How can I become a professional film director like Orson Welles or Francis Ford Coppola?

It might be a little tough to become a professional film director like Orson Welles or Francis Ford Coppola, but it is not impossible. There are many different paths that you can take, and the most important thing is to start your journey by developing a good portfolio. This should consist of both short and long-form films that are creative and well-made.

Once you have successfully developed your portfolio, it is time to begin networking with industry professionals. Attend film festivals, meet people at industry events, and build relationships with other filmmakers. When the time comes for you to make your first movie submission, be sure to polish up your presentation skills so that producers see how great of an idea this could be for their company/production slate.

Are there any good documentaries in film studies that I should watch?

There are many great documentaries in film studies, but some of the most popular include “The Act of Killing” and “20 Feet from Stardom.” Both films explore human trafficking and the severe exploitation that takes place around the world. They provide a unique perspective on humanity and shed light on issues that are often left unseen.

Additionally, both movies have been widely praised for their compelling storytelling techniques.

Other great documentaries to watch include “We Are What We Eat,” which explores our relationship with food, and “Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of Hollywood Film.”

This documentary investigates how filmmakers use mass media to construct representations of society, politics, and global events. It is an essential resource for any student interested in cinema as it provides insight into how Hollywood functions as a propaganda machine.

Which is better: classic or contemporary movies in film studies?

While both have their merits, classic movies might be better for those who are looking to learn about film history and how different periods of filmmaking influence the way we think about cinema today. Additionally, classic movies often offer a more immersive experience that is difficult to imitate in contemporary films.

On the other hand, contemporary filmmakers are constantly experimenting with new techniques and creating refreshingly original works that can appeal to all types of moviegoers. So while there may not be one clear winner here, overall it would seem that classics continue to hold up well over time.

What is the best silent film recommendation for film students?

Many great films are perfect for film students, and it can be difficult to choose just one. However, if we were to recommend a particular movie, it would be The Shape of Water. This dark fantasy is filled with rich visuals and an emotionally captivating story that will engage your senses from start to finish.

Plus, the lush soundtrack provides a vivid backdrop for the events on the screen which makes this film even more special.

What are some of the most underrated film noir to study in film studies?

Some of the most underrated and overlooked film noirs are classics that deserve greater recognition. These films often explore criminal underworlds, espionage, and psychological thriller genres with a style that is Machine Gun Kelly meets Taxi Driver.

Which Stanley Kubrick movies should I watch before attending a film school?

Some of Stanley Kubrick’s best-known movies include “A Clockwork Orange,” “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb,” and “The Shining.” All three of these films are dark psychological dramas that can provide valuable insights into film school learning.

Additionally, Kubrick was a master at creating suspenseful scenes that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat during film class!

Which Hitchcock movies should all film majors watch?

When it comes to Hitchcock movies, there are many that every film major should watch. Some of the classics include The Lodger, Psycho, Rear Window, and Vertigo. These films showcase Hitchcock’s unique ability to create suspenseful stories with unforgettable characters.

In addition to his well-known thriller movies, Hitchcock is also known for directing some critically acclaimed dramas like To Kill a Mockingbird and His Girl Friday. Both of these films explore the human condition in rewarding ways and are sure to fascinate film majors alike.

If you’re looking for recommendations that focus on contemporary filmmaking styles or themes, then check out such titles as Blue Valentine or Don’t Tell Mom the Perks of Being a Wallflower. Either way, by watching some of Hitchcock’s classic masterpieces you’ll soon be able to put your spin on cinematic storytelling!

Film Studies Movie List- Final Thought

Studying the greatest films can be a great way to learn about cinematography, screenwriting, and other film-related concepts.

Hopefully, this blog has outlined some of the best movies for film studies, as well as the best time to study them. Make sure to check out our other blogs based on the film industry to get the most out of popular movie studies!

Happy reading!

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I am a dedicated and passionate researcher, writer and tutor. Research, writing and tutoring are not just ways of making money but rather things I love to do.

I am a knowledge-oriented writer with a knack for creativity and a keen eye for exceptional grammar and sentence construction. I switch between American, British, and Canadian as well as Australian English with ease. This grants me the leverage to write for a wide range of global audiences. Getting the tone right is a skill that I have learned over the years. Subsequently, I can deliver both formal and informal write-ups with an authoritative and captivating flare.

Subjects : Ethnic Studies, European History, Exam & Study Mentoring, Family and Consumer Sciences, Film Studies, History, Human Resources, Humanities, International Studies, Logistics, Macroeconomics, Management, Management Communications, proofreading, research papers

English , Spanish

Homestead , United States

USD $ 15 /hr

Anna Carolyne A.

Florida State University

University Honors Student who enjoys watch knowledge spark

I am a Junior at Florida State University majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience and minoring in English Literature. I adore watching others grow a passion for writing and analyzing literature. I have knowledge in research, context, writing, film media, and plays.

Subjects : AP Literature, College Essays, Elementary Science, English, English Language Arts, English Literature, English as Second Language, English as a Second Language (ESL), Essay Writing, Film Studies, Literature, Psychology, Reading, Reading Literacy, Spanish

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