Studying Film: A Taster
Learn how to evaluate and discuss films while enjoying a working example of a City Lit film studies class.
We will view clips from a wide variety of films, exploring themes and technique in British, European and modern American cinema. There will be a chance to review term two film courses at City Lit (January - July 2026).
Choose a starting date
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 07 Dec 2025End Date: 07 Dec 2025Sun (Daytime): 14:30 - 16:30OnlineFull fee £19.00 Senior fee £15.00 Concession £12.00
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This is a chance to get a taste of what film studies courses are like at City Lit. You also can learn about forthcoming film courses in our programme, starting in January 2026.
Cinema is not only entertainment, it is the art and culture of our time. For anyone interested in history, narrative and images – and how to interpret them – film studies is the ideal course for constructing an argument or practical criticism. We’re surrounded by narratives and pictures; film studies will give you the tools to understand and analyse them.
What will we cover?
There’s a reason why film has become one of the defining art forms of our generation, and created so many iconic images in pop culture. See where film fits into culture, the relationship between film and gender, as well as different styles of writing and directing.
We will explore contemporary cinema and current releases: mainstream, arthouse and world cinema.
We will look at the following:
-Style and technique and the use of music, editing and camera e.g. close-up vs. crane shot.
-Film theory and film history as a valid means to widen your world view.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Demonstrate an awareness of some of the key areas in film studies
- Have a clearer idea of what is involved when studying film
- Begin to think about film critically
- Begin to decide which film courses you might like to take.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is suitable for all levels and you do not require any particular skills - just an enthusiasm for film and discussing film.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Screenings of extracts from films, talks by the tutor, and group discussions.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You will require a pen and paper (or laptop/device). The tutor will provide all other materials.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Look at HF238 How to Read a Film: A Beginner's Guide to Cinema, HF324 Cultureplex Cine-Club and HF151 Reading Images: Exploring Film Studies, but please see other film studies courses on our website at www.citylit.ac.uk/History, Culture and Writing, Film Studies.
Jon Wisbey teaches film at City Lit and Morley College. He was for many years a committee member and vice-chair of Chelmsford Film Club, screening contemporary and classic world cinema releases. He has an MA in Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. His teaching focuses on classical and post-classical Hollywood, European cinema, British cinema, film noir and horror cinema.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.