I'm feeling fairly well prepared, there's not an awful lot you can do, other than as previously stated;
- For the essay question; Have a wide knowledge of sci-fi films you can refer to in your answers, (influential ones, that contribute to the genre). It's not needed to have watched the whole film, but maybe read a synopsis and dip into a few to get an idea, try to think of some points you could make about them. Some examples of films I was told would be useful are;
- 2001 Space Odyssey (1968)
- Blade Runner (1971)
- A.I (2001)
- Interstellar (2015)
- Star wars (1977)
- Planet of the apes (1968)
(I have a long list if anyone wants them let me know).
You will need to mention at least 3 case studies/films in your answer, giving multiple points about each, in a structured form in order to push for them top grades.
Example of points you could make;
Interstellar - Family based Sci-Fi, it takes a while for the film to properly start, and sets the scene for about 60 mins, familiarizing the audience with the family, allowing them to adopt a mental connection, feeling similarities in their own family, and this allows for the audience to feel empathy and become more immersed in the film. (It is useful to use quotes from the films as well if your pushing for that top grade).
A.I - This film really pushes the boundaries of what it means to be human, which is challenged in many Sci-Fi films. The young robot "David", explores what it takes to make him a human, and by the end of the film, it is left to the audience to decide whether his qualities deem himself a human. Through the portrayal of "Gigolo Joe", we see that he sees himself as lifelike, as he existed, and this satisfies him enough. The last words we hear him say are; "I was, I am", suggesting he understands that he existed, so therefore he mattered and always will. This is a key value to life that Spielberg explores, and has had the audience questioning it since. Some people say this very scene has inspired a lot more directors to explore a similar theme. (What it means to be human/alive).
-For the Creative Section, I have been advised that it is likely to be based on a website design, possibly designing a website for a film/film company. If this is the case, I would recommend brainstorming some ideas regarding a website as you don't want to be stuck without any. To push for them higher grades, try to explore creative ideas, possibly an interactive website, or themed/tailored to the genre. E.g. If the question is; Design a website for a family Christmas film, it would be a better idea to theme it on a Christmas tree where the user opens different pages from clicking on presents or bawballs, rather than a classic, simple website. Also, think of any conventions of a modern website.
Good luck in the exam guys, bit late with this post, but hopefully it can help some of you!