The examination is two hours and students need to answer 3 questions in total. In Section A there is an option of two questions while in Section B students must answer two questions.
Section A requires students to understand seven macro features of two films, underpinned by micro analysis. The films must not be more than 10 years old with one of the macro frameworks being the basis for the questions.
The seven frameworks are Representation, Messages and Values, Genre, Narrative, Theme, Style and Authorship.
A grid format is an excellent planning system for comparative studies; it is useful to state key areas you may need to refer to regarding each film down the far left column so that you do not miss anything out. Then you should write everything you can including as much theory and film language in each box, making sure you make reference to the macro elements: genre, narrative, themes and the production context. After you have written your plan, select the 2 or 3 key ideas you want to discuss for each film. Make you sure you noted a key scene you use to illustrate each idea and number these in your plan, in the order you will discuss them in your essay.
Your introduction should refer to the title, name both of your films and briefly mention the 2 or 3 key points you are going to make in terms of comparing them. The essay notes below should serve as a good starting point for developing an essay, you may need to be selective on which paragraphs or rows you refer to depending on the essay question.
