Even though I was keen in creating a film about our economic crisis, I feel that creating a film about ‘What if you decided to live hub to hub, with nothing, with nobody?" (Quoted by Jason Reitman’s, talking about up in the air) would be a more appealing and attractive film. At the same time I still want to make depression the main focus in the film. Watching up in the air inspired me to create a film which fits both ideas together, a film about a character that has nothing because he’s depressed.
It a film about an adolescent student who suffers from severe depression. He’s inability to overcome the illness forces him to write a suicide note. However inspiration comes, and whilst looking for a book in the library he finds one called ‘how to overcome depression’. He now has to make a choice which he dreads, either to commit suicide or triumph over his depression.
Whilst watching Up in the air, I noted all the characteristic, qualities of the character of Ryan this supported me within the creation of the protagonist character in ‘Why Me’, Mark, there are various correlation between Ryan in ‘Up in the air’ and Mark in ‘Why me’.
Ryan
He chooses to lives an isolated life with the same constant routine, which is travelling around America
Mark
Even though he may have the ability to overcome depression and get support, he chooses the easy option because he believes he can’t overcome it, which is to be a lonely person, who continues a life which he despises which is going to school every day.
Mark
Like Ryan he chooses to accept he’s life, in this case of misery and depression, as he chooses to pick up a notepad which he intends to write he’s suicide note instead of picking up a therapist leaflet.
Ryan
He believes that he’s different, he’s life doesn’t evolve around marriage, love and family.
Mark
Believes that he’s difference, he envies the life of his peers who live a life of happiness.
Ryan
In a casual relationship which is not based on love, it’s a relationship which they have in order to escape their real life.
Mark
Unable to interact with people because he’s a loner, people view him as weird.
Ryan
Inspiration comes when he realizes how much he loves this girl, and he tries to change he’s isolated life by trying to get this girl, but the grim reality is that she’s already in a life based around marriage and family.
Mark
Like Ryan, inspiration comes when he finds a book called how to overcome depression.
Challenged
Up in the air
At the end, he’s looking at a flight board with a list of cities, symbolizing the fact that at the end of the day he’s life of being alone is who he is and he cant escape it.
Why me
At the end he dreams about overcoming depression, however when he wakes up he hears the scribbling which is a reference to suicide.
At the end Ryan chooses to live a life of isolation in the end, however in ‘Why Me’ we never know what happens, does he decide to overcome depression or to commit suicide, the audiences are left to decide.
Saturday, 30 October 2010
Film Inspiration Continued - How up in the air inspire me in my first film idea
The film undoubtedly inspired me within my film idea. This is because of its themes: economic recession, and its philosophical examination of life.
The director is firstly quotes saying that "In one sense, it’s a movie about a man who fires people for a living’.
It’s a movie which explores the economic crisis and the issue of downsizing, and the ways in which technological advances have cut people from their job, as now new technology does it for them.
Watching the film inspired me to create a film which relates to our current society, most particularly the economic recession. My eagerness to create a film about economic issue was developed whilst watching the ‘educators’, a film about revolutionary activist who try to get by in a corrupt capitalist world. Watching both films led to the creation of my first film idea which was about a:
Jobless character, who’s against the capitalist system, he suffers from depression because he’s unemployed. He rebels because of the fact that he is in a subordinate, inferior, working class position in society. He carries a camera; which he in order to get he’s message across, and to inspire other working class people to rebel.
In my film it centers around this rebellious protagonist character, who rebels because he’s been fired despite the fact that he’s been loyal and committed to the company and has being working their for last three years, just like all the character who were fired in up in the air.
I use the issue of depression because Up in the air made me realize and understand the effects of firing people, as it can lead to severe depression, many of character who were stunned by the announcement either said, how am I going to live?, how am I going to provide for my family?, what’s going to happen next.
I began to research the links between depression and being jobless, and I found various sites which supported the argument that there is a close correlation between people who are jobless or can’t get a job and depression, because it can make you feel like you have lost control of your future, you cant provide for your family ect.
The director is firstly quotes saying that "In one sense, it’s a movie about a man who fires people for a living’.
It’s a movie which explores the economic crisis and the issue of downsizing, and the ways in which technological advances have cut people from their job, as now new technology does it for them.
Watching the film inspired me to create a film which relates to our current society, most particularly the economic recession. My eagerness to create a film about economic issue was developed whilst watching the ‘educators’, a film about revolutionary activist who try to get by in a corrupt capitalist world. Watching both films led to the creation of my first film idea which was about a:
Jobless character, who’s against the capitalist system, he suffers from depression because he’s unemployed. He rebels because of the fact that he is in a subordinate, inferior, working class position in society. He carries a camera; which he in order to get he’s message across, and to inspire other working class people to rebel.
In my film it centers around this rebellious protagonist character, who rebels because he’s been fired despite the fact that he’s been loyal and committed to the company and has being working their for last three years, just like all the character who were fired in up in the air.
I use the issue of depression because Up in the air made me realize and understand the effects of firing people, as it can lead to severe depression, many of character who were stunned by the announcement either said, how am I going to live?, how am I going to provide for my family?, what’s going to happen next.
I began to research the links between depression and being jobless, and I found various sites which supported the argument that there is a close correlation between people who are jobless or can’t get a job and depression, because it can make you feel like you have lost control of your future, you cant provide for your family ect.
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
Film Of Inspiration
Up In The Air
Plot
Here’s a plot
Ryan Bingham, makes a living through traveling around America and conducting layoffs for employers unwilling to do it themselves. At the same time he delivers motivational speeches on relieving one's life of excess physical and emotional baggage. He cherishes he’s life of isolation, and yearns to reach he’s goal which is to achieve ten million frequent flyer miles with American Airlines.
He’s isolated life is completely changed when he meets Alex (who is the girl the version of him), they then develop a causal relationship.
We are introduced to Natalie a freshly graduated psychology student, she joins he’s company. She recommends that the company should change the nature of the work by conducting the "firings" through a webcam, so it saves money. Ryan believes that Natalie doesn’t understand the nature of the business, and as such, their boss, Craig Gregory, suggests that she accompany Ryan on a business trip. Once this is over, he decides that instead of leaving he invites Alex to accompany him to his sister's wedding, their relationship develops. However the husband grows cold feet and Ryan is told to deliver he’s inspirational skills to persuade him about the importance of living a life of togetherness, which counters his personal ideals, and the wedding proceeds.
Whilst delivering a speech for his company he’s unable to continue, and decides to run off and leave the stage and he flies to Alex's home in Chicago. When she opens to door he realizes that she’s a married woman with children. She calls him telling him that her family is her real life and he is simply an escape. On he’s return flight he reaches the 10 million mile mark and meets the airlines pilot, and receives a free travel card.
Ryan boss tells him that the employer him and Natalie had fired killed herself and Natalie quits the job.
Natalie attempts to find a job, in San Francisco, at a company that she applied to before taking a job firing people in Omaha. The interviewer is impressed by her qualification and reference fro, Ryan.
The film concludes with Ryan standing in front of the destination board looking up.
Plot
Here’s a plot
Ryan Bingham, makes a living through traveling around America and conducting layoffs for employers unwilling to do it themselves. At the same time he delivers motivational speeches on relieving one's life of excess physical and emotional baggage. He cherishes he’s life of isolation, and yearns to reach he’s goal which is to achieve ten million frequent flyer miles with American Airlines.
He’s isolated life is completely changed when he meets Alex (who is the girl the version of him), they then develop a causal relationship.
We are introduced to Natalie a freshly graduated psychology student, she joins he’s company. She recommends that the company should change the nature of the work by conducting the "firings" through a webcam, so it saves money. Ryan believes that Natalie doesn’t understand the nature of the business, and as such, their boss, Craig Gregory, suggests that she accompany Ryan on a business trip. Once this is over, he decides that instead of leaving he invites Alex to accompany him to his sister's wedding, their relationship develops. However the husband grows cold feet and Ryan is told to deliver he’s inspirational skills to persuade him about the importance of living a life of togetherness, which counters his personal ideals, and the wedding proceeds.
Whilst delivering a speech for his company he’s unable to continue, and decides to run off and leave the stage and he flies to Alex's home in Chicago. When she opens to door he realizes that she’s a married woman with children. She calls him telling him that her family is her real life and he is simply an escape. On he’s return flight he reaches the 10 million mile mark and meets the airlines pilot, and receives a free travel card.
Ryan boss tells him that the employer him and Natalie had fired killed herself and Natalie quits the job.
Natalie attempts to find a job, in San Francisco, at a company that she applied to before taking a job firing people in Omaha. The interviewer is impressed by her qualification and reference fro, Ryan.
The film concludes with Ryan standing in front of the destination board looking up.
Tuesday, 26 October 2010
A Day In The Life
A day in the life
Story
A film about the life of a lonely, isolated and deprived teenager, he’s fed up of the constant bullying and isolation he experiences everyday, and now intends to commit suicide, however for some reason he believes that he can overcome he’s inner feeling and decides to not to pull the trigger on himself and the live abother life.
Genre
We can easily tell it’s a social realist. This is shown through how the film addreesses an issue which is constand covnetion in social realist, and in this case the issue of suicide, this is reinforced by the end were the film ends in a quote, depicting the importance of life.
Location
The genre is also reinforced through the location. It depicts a typical everyday location like a school, police station and neighborhood, there’s nothing fancy about these locations. The neighborhood looks to be working class, and we see a police car and station. This clearly stays in touch with the conventions of social reralsit, as we always ee a working class location, and sometimes a police station which is typically used in order to show how the protagonist character rebels against the capitalist system, and is now in prison as a result of committing crime.
Character
The character is the focus of the film, the film therefore explores he’s life and explores he’s journey suicide. He’s school life is grim, he has no friends and he even gets bullied and laughed at. He sleeps during lessons, as he feels bored and maybe depressed.
Camera shots, techniques and post production
Voice over – is used in the opening to express he’s inner feelings, and allows us to get to know the character
Zoom out of the character in his room, depicting he’s loneliness.
360 degree shot of him at school during lunch shot – emphasizing he’s lonely nature, through the 360 we see nothing but just him sitting on a chair by himself.
2 shot mid close up, he’s peers are laughing at him because he’s alone.
Close up of him with gun showing how he’s fed up with life, however he’s taking his time because he’s considering the possibility of living
All these shots and techniques are used in order to highlight the characters isolation and misery and to cerate a sense of pity towards him.
Monday, 25 October 2010
Visit to MediaMagazine Student Conference 21 Oct 2010
On the 21s7 of October my media class attended the MediaMagazine Student Conference, it was opportunity to gain a real understanding of the subject ‘media studies’, and what is needed in order to succeed I the course. We were firstly given a lecture by Professor David Buckingham, who lectured about ‘why people talk so much rubbish about Media Studies’, he expressed the difference views, and why many such education/political leaders view it’s as a pointless subject which brainwashes students into believing unintelligent students into believing that if they take up the subject they could get into the media industry.
Dr Julian McDougall was next in the line. He explained the importance of media convergence, and expressed the impact of more interactive media on politics. In his view he argued that talent shows like X factor were the audiences have the power to vote has influence people into taking more interest in politics, as the power people (audiences) have to choose a winner in talent shows have motivated them to do the same in politics.
The most invaluable lecture was the next one, by chief examiner Pete Fraiser whose lecture titled ‘perfecting your production work’. Pete’s talk was the most useful as it realties to what I’m doing now. Firstly he talked about the significance of research, he continued to emphasis the importance of research, through giving real examples, and researching every single angle including conventions, audiences and institutions. The lecture made me realize the importance of research something which I lack. Through the blogger, he urged us to develop our journey through the blogger by uploading links, ideas and inspiration. Planning and having workable concept with realistic plans were also expressed by Pete, he spoke about the importance of planning were student s show plan for all eventualities. He also claimed that the ‘more ideas and character used the more complicated’ the film the likelihood of failure and mistakes.
The last lecture was about how to achieve in media studies, the editor of Media Magazine spoke of the need to be diverse and moving out of confront zone. We also lucky enough to be listening to people who were actually in the media industry, a director, games writer and photography, who expressed the importance of first hand experience something more valuable then education.
Dr Julian McDougall was next in the line. He explained the importance of media convergence, and expressed the impact of more interactive media on politics. In his view he argued that talent shows like X factor were the audiences have the power to vote has influence people into taking more interest in politics, as the power people (audiences) have to choose a winner in talent shows have motivated them to do the same in politics.
The most invaluable lecture was the next one, by chief examiner Pete Fraiser whose lecture titled ‘perfecting your production work’. Pete’s talk was the most useful as it realties to what I’m doing now. Firstly he talked about the significance of research, he continued to emphasis the importance of research, through giving real examples, and researching every single angle including conventions, audiences and institutions. The lecture made me realize the importance of research something which I lack. Through the blogger, he urged us to develop our journey through the blogger by uploading links, ideas and inspiration. Planning and having workable concept with realistic plans were also expressed by Pete, he spoke about the importance of planning were student s show plan for all eventualities. He also claimed that the ‘more ideas and character used the more complicated’ the film the likelihood of failure and mistakes.
The last lecture was about how to achieve in media studies, the editor of Media Magazine spoke of the need to be diverse and moving out of confront zone. We also lucky enough to be listening to people who were actually in the media industry, a director, games writer and photography, who expressed the importance of first hand experience something more valuable then education.
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Costumes
A costume plays an integral role in film. It contributes significantly to the film, by reflecting the person of the character, he/her lifestyle and personality. It has acts as an instrument of communicating the character to the audiences. Furthermore it is said that in film actors don’t feel like the character until they have found or wear the right costumes.
As you can see in the film I use this thin long sleeved black jumper and black jeans. Instead of using a colourful sleeved shirt which reveals the colourful, open, smart and likeable nature of the individual I use dull, gloomy and dark clothing. This is valuable since it reinforces the pessimistic, boring and depressed inner feelings of the character. The use of this costume prevents the outside world as well as the audiences from gaining any real knowledge and understanding of the character, for example if someone is wearing a smart looking suit you would assume their smart or if their wearing a bright blue t shirt you would assume their bright and colourful. The fact that he doesn’t have any real stylish clothing, the audiences as well at the people around him will view him as a dull grey blank individual. And so the costume acts as a barrier preventing people from approaching and interacting with him. This deepens his depressed feeling, as he feels that the world hates him, however in reality he’s loneliness is due to the way he chooses to present himself.
As you can see in the film I use this thin long sleeved black jumper and black jeans. Instead of using a colourful sleeved shirt which reveals the colourful, open, smart and likeable nature of the individual I use dull, gloomy and dark clothing. This is valuable since it reinforces the pessimistic, boring and depressed inner feelings of the character. The use of this costume prevents the outside world as well as the audiences from gaining any real knowledge and understanding of the character, for example if someone is wearing a smart looking suit you would assume their smart or if their wearing a bright blue t shirt you would assume their bright and colourful. The fact that he doesn’t have any real stylish clothing, the audiences as well at the people around him will view him as a dull grey blank individual. And so the costume acts as a barrier preventing people from approaching and interacting with him. This deepens his depressed feeling, as he feels that the world hates him, however in reality he’s loneliness is due to the way he chooses to present himself.
Researcg into Depression
I intend to make a film about teen depression, before I do this I need to understand and educate myself about depression, what it is, why it occurs, its symptons and gain information about teen depression.
What is depression
Depression is the feeling of extreme sadness, which can last for a long time. These feeling can be so severe it can then interfere and affect your daily life, and can last for weeks, months or even years.
Depression is an illness which involves your body, mood and thoughts. It can affect the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. Its not the same as a bad mood, its not a sign of a personal weakness and it cannot be wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years.
It is characterized by a pessimistic attitude, a lack of interest in activities normally enjoyed. Changes in weight and sleep, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of death and suicide call all occur.
Causes of depression can be divided into three broad groups - psychological, physical and social.
• Psychological - this is where a stressful or upsetting life event causes a persistent low mood, low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness about the future.
• Physical or chemical - depression is caused by changes in levels of chemicals in the brain. For example, your mood can change as hormone levels go up and down. This is often seen in women as it is associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, miscarriage, childbirth and the menopause.
• Social - doing fewer activities or having fewer interests can cause depression, or may happen because of depression.
Other causes of depression include:
• Family History - If you have a family history of depression, you are more likely to get depression yourself.
• drinking excess alcohol
• using recreational drugs - such as cannabis and cocaine, and
• taking some types of prescription medication - for example, propranolol can occasionally cause depression.
Symptoms of Depression include:
• Being unable to gain pleasure from activities that normally would be pleasurable.
• Losing interest in normal activities, hobbies and everyday life.
• Feeling tired all of the time and having no energy.
• Difficulty sleeping or waking early in the morning
• Having a poor appetite, no interest in food and losing weight (though some people overeat and put on weight – 'comfort eating').
• Losing interest in sex.
• Finding it difficult to concentrate and think straight.
• Feeling restless, tense and anxious.
• Being irritable.
• Losing self-confidence.
• Avoiding other people.
• Finding it harder than usual to make decisions.
• Feeling useless
• Feeling guilty about who you are and what you have done.
• Feeling hopeless – that nothing will make things better.
• Thinking about suicide – this is very common.
• Being unable to do simple things like read a book or watch TV
Teen Depression
Teenage depression isn’t just bad moods and being occasionally miserable. Depression is a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, homicidal violence or suicide.
There are many misconceptions about teenage depression, the teenage years are undoubtedly tough, but most teens are able to overcome it with good friendships, success at school or be involved in outside activities. However depression is something different it can destroy the very essence of a teenager’s personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Teenage depression is in fact increasing, despite the fact that it can be treated experts say only 20% of depressed teens ever receive help.
Effects of teenage depression.
Problems at school
Depression can cause low energy and concentration difficulties. At school, this may lead to poor attendance, a drop in grades, or frustration with schoolwork in a formerly good student.
Running away
Many depressed teens run away from home or talk about running away. Such attempts are usually a cry for help.
Substance abuse
Teens may use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to “self-medicate” their depression. Unfortunately, substance abuse only makes things worse.
Low self-esteem
Depression can trigger and intensify feelings of ugliness, shame, failure, and unworthiness.
Eating disorders
Anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and yo-yo dieting are often signs of unrecognized depression.
Internet addiction
Teens may go online to escape from their problems. But excessive computer use only increases their isolation and makes them more depressed.
Self-injury
Cutting, burning, and other kinds of self-mutilation are almost always associated with depression.
Reckless behavior
Depressed teens may engage in dangerous or high-risk behaviors, such as reckless driving, out-of-control drinking, and unsafe sex.
Violence
Some depressed teens (usually boys who are the victims of bullying) become violent. As in the case of the Columbine school massacre, self-hatred and a wish to die can erupt into violence and homicidal rage.
Suicide
Teens who are seriously depressed often think, speak, or make "attention-getting" attempts at suicide. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors should always be taken very seriously
What is depression
Depression is the feeling of extreme sadness, which can last for a long time. These feeling can be so severe it can then interfere and affect your daily life, and can last for weeks, months or even years.
Depression is an illness which involves your body, mood and thoughts. It can affect the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. Its not the same as a bad mood, its not a sign of a personal weakness and it cannot be wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years.
It is characterized by a pessimistic attitude, a lack of interest in activities normally enjoyed. Changes in weight and sleep, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of death and suicide call all occur.
Causes of depression can be divided into three broad groups - psychological, physical and social.
• Psychological - this is where a stressful or upsetting life event causes a persistent low mood, low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness about the future.
• Physical or chemical - depression is caused by changes in levels of chemicals in the brain. For example, your mood can change as hormone levels go up and down. This is often seen in women as it is associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, miscarriage, childbirth and the menopause.
• Social - doing fewer activities or having fewer interests can cause depression, or may happen because of depression.
Other causes of depression include:
• Family History - If you have a family history of depression, you are more likely to get depression yourself.
• drinking excess alcohol
• using recreational drugs - such as cannabis and cocaine, and
• taking some types of prescription medication - for example, propranolol can occasionally cause depression.
Symptoms of Depression include:
• Being unable to gain pleasure from activities that normally would be pleasurable.
• Losing interest in normal activities, hobbies and everyday life.
• Feeling tired all of the time and having no energy.
• Difficulty sleeping or waking early in the morning
• Having a poor appetite, no interest in food and losing weight (though some people overeat and put on weight – 'comfort eating').
• Losing interest in sex.
• Finding it difficult to concentrate and think straight.
• Feeling restless, tense and anxious.
• Being irritable.
• Losing self-confidence.
• Avoiding other people.
• Finding it harder than usual to make decisions.
• Feeling useless
• Feeling guilty about who you are and what you have done.
• Feeling hopeless – that nothing will make things better.
• Thinking about suicide – this is very common.
• Being unable to do simple things like read a book or watch TV
Teen Depression
Teenage depression isn’t just bad moods and being occasionally miserable. Depression is a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, homicidal violence or suicide.
There are many misconceptions about teenage depression, the teenage years are undoubtedly tough, but most teens are able to overcome it with good friendships, success at school or be involved in outside activities. However depression is something different it can destroy the very essence of a teenager’s personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Teenage depression is in fact increasing, despite the fact that it can be treated experts say only 20% of depressed teens ever receive help.
Effects of teenage depression.
Problems at school
Depression can cause low energy and concentration difficulties. At school, this may lead to poor attendance, a drop in grades, or frustration with schoolwork in a formerly good student.
Running away
Many depressed teens run away from home or talk about running away. Such attempts are usually a cry for help.
Substance abuse
Teens may use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to “self-medicate” their depression. Unfortunately, substance abuse only makes things worse.
Low self-esteem
Depression can trigger and intensify feelings of ugliness, shame, failure, and unworthiness.
Eating disorders
Anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and yo-yo dieting are often signs of unrecognized depression.
Internet addiction
Teens may go online to escape from their problems. But excessive computer use only increases their isolation and makes them more depressed.
Self-injury
Cutting, burning, and other kinds of self-mutilation are almost always associated with depression.
Reckless behavior
Depressed teens may engage in dangerous or high-risk behaviors, such as reckless driving, out-of-control drinking, and unsafe sex.
Violence
Some depressed teens (usually boys who are the victims of bullying) become violent. As in the case of the Columbine school massacre, self-hatred and a wish to die can erupt into violence and homicidal rage.
Suicide
Teens who are seriously depressed often think, speak, or make "attention-getting" attempts at suicide. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors should always be taken very seriously
Sunday, 10 October 2010
The Edukators
Set in Germany, a Berlin student Jule is in immense debt as a result of an accident she had caused, which was hitting the Mercedes Benz owned by a powerful execute called Hardenberg, and she now has pay almost 100,000 Euros along eight years. When she gets evicted she is forced to move with her boyfriend peter and his introverted roommate Jan. She finds out about Jan and Peters secret identity. They are revolutionary activist calling themselves the ‘Educators’. They break into luxurious mansion at nights, and instead of stealing and vandalizing they carefully rearrange furniture and valuables and leave a message saying ‘you have too much money’. As Peter travels to Spain, Jan has to look after her and he helps pain her house, they both form an intimate, loving relationship. Jan after Jule, and he convinces her to visit Hardenberg’s mansion for revenge, but the executive unexpectedly returns, this shocks them and they forced them kidnap him. They now have to decide the destiny of Hardenberg. The Educators presents three people trying to get by in a corrupt world.
Social Realist: Codes and Conventions
Codes and conventions in social realist films
The Social realist film genre is the only type of fiction film which depicts real life. And it typically portrays the issues of class inequality and the struggles faced by the working class, and the situations and experiences they come across and which confront them. The purpose of social realist film is to convey a message it could be of political protest, creating awareness or even creating sympathy.
Therefore we typically expect to see these codes and convention within this genre:
- Explore issue of drug, street violence, crime and murder
- Always reflects life of 21 century, were sex is currency, drugs are easy to come by and violence is a way of life
- Characters experiencing extreme poverty, and are unable to provide for family
- Characters in debt
- Majority of characters working class
- Live in poor environments and houses – typically set in council houses, and areas where crime , drugs and violence are rife
- Sons and daughters are usually influenced by example set by parents
- Camera angles and shot are usually hand held
- As the are realistic fictional film’s there’s usually no special effects or CGI
- Protagonist characters are usually rebels and are against the capitalist system.
The Social realist film genre is the only type of fiction film which depicts real life. And it typically portrays the issues of class inequality and the struggles faced by the working class, and the situations and experiences they come across and which confront them. The purpose of social realist film is to convey a message it could be of political protest, creating awareness or even creating sympathy.
Therefore we typically expect to see these codes and convention within this genre:
- Explore issue of drug, street violence, crime and murder
- Always reflects life of 21 century, were sex is currency, drugs are easy to come by and violence is a way of life
- Characters experiencing extreme poverty, and are unable to provide for family
- Characters in debt
- Majority of characters working class
- Live in poor environments and houses – typically set in council houses, and areas where crime , drugs and violence are rife
- Sons and daughters are usually influenced by example set by parents
- Camera angles and shot are usually hand held
- As the are realistic fictional film’s there’s usually no special effects or CGI
- Protagonist characters are usually rebels and are against the capitalist system.
Thursday, 7 October 2010
The Lord Is My Shotgun
A robbery had just gone wrong, and these four goons now come in contact with a violent, cruel and vengeful cop at the car park exit.
The protagonist character followers the stereotypes of many action hero, he’s a casual person this is reinforced by his clothing where he’s wearing a suit and jacket – making him appear profession and business like, he also smokes whilst he’s is the process of killing the criminal. All of this followers many heroic stenotypes as his style, manner and facial expression all reflect his disregard to the situation his in and his unconcern of being in danger. He acts as if killing is a norm and part of his everyday life.
This short film clearly uses many of the codes and convention is the action film genre
Examples include
- Props, the gun
- Criminals wearing masks
- Slow tempo music, which creates an tense atmosphere as we are anticipating something to happen
- Stunts of character flying back when he gets shot
- Blood
- POV shot – which puts us in the protagonist character perspective
- Fighting scene
- Dramatic twist where the hero gets unexpectedly gets knocked by a criminal from behind.
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
Action/Adventure film Codes and Conventions
Action adventure films are films where the hero(s) is put in a position where he/she have to overcome and defeat a series of challenges. These challenges require strength physically and mentally. The adventure elements in reinforced when the hero has to find hidden treasures or battle individuals in spectacular, unusual and adventurous setting ect.
There are a range of codes and convention within an action adventure film, they always have:
- Chase scenes
- Extended Fights
- Physical stunts
- Rescues, Battles and Martial arts
- Destructive disasters such as floods, explosions, natural disasters, fires, etc.
- The main action centers around a male action hero or protagonist
- always have a resourceful hero(ine) struggling against incredible odds
- life-threatening circumstance
- Evil villain
- victory or resolution attained by the end after strenuous physical feats and violence
- Hero always wins
All these convention which are always reinforced in action/adventure films are all designed for pure audience escapism with the action sequences at the core of the film.
Action films usually acts as a hybrid genre for various genres, such as sci fi, thriller, war, horror and western film genres. Action films have traditionally been aimed at male audiences, ages 13 to the mid-30s in the world-wide markets.
There are a range of codes and convention within an action adventure film, they always have:
- Chase scenes
- Extended Fights
- Physical stunts
- Rescues, Battles and Martial arts
- Destructive disasters such as floods, explosions, natural disasters, fires, etc.
- The main action centers around a male action hero or protagonist
- always have a resourceful hero(ine) struggling against incredible odds
- life-threatening circumstance
- Evil villain
- victory or resolution attained by the end after strenuous physical feats and violence
- Hero always wins
All these convention which are always reinforced in action/adventure films are all designed for pure audience escapism with the action sequences at the core of the film.
Action films usually acts as a hybrid genre for various genres, such as sci fi, thriller, war, horror and western film genres. Action films have traditionally been aimed at male audiences, ages 13 to the mid-30s in the world-wide markets.
Sunday, 3 October 2010
Comedy Films
In a comedy film people expect to laugh. The comedy film genre belongs to the groups of films that evoke laughter/humor from the audience. It centered around humor and typically has a happy ending. They are bright, optimistic and light hearted storied with no intent other than to amuse. Furthermore the plot is generally less important that its witty dialogue.
There are various hybrids genres which fall under the comedy genre such as:
Action comedy
Action comedy films combine comedy and action where the film stars combine wit and one-liners with a thrilling plot and daring stunts.
Example include
Rush Hour
Plot - About two cops Detective Lee and Detective James Carter FBI, two cops who share two different cultures and are from different worlds discover that they cant stand each other, however they most overcome the culture clash and thier relationship in order to catch the criminals and save the eleven-year-old Chinese girl.
Comedy horror is a type of horror film in which the usual dark themes are treated with a humorous approach.
Example Shaun of the Dead
Shaun of the dead – about a man decides to turn his life around by winning back his ex-girlfriend, reconciling his relationship with his mother, and dealing with an entire community that has returned from the dead to eat the living.
Fantasy comedy films are types of films that use magic, supernatural and or mythological figures for comic purposes. Most fantasy comedy includes an element of parody, or satire, turning many of the fantasy conventions on their head.
Night at the Muesum
A newly recruited night security guard at the Museum of Natural History discovers that an ancient curse causes the animals and exhibits on display to come to life and wreak havoc.
Sci-fi comedy films, like most hybrid genre of comedy use the elements of science fiction films to over the top extremes and exaggerated science fiction stereotypical characters.
Men in black
Two men who keep an eye on aliens in New York City must try to save the world after the aliens threaten to blow it up.
Military comedy films, involve comic situations in a military setting
Tropic Thunder
A group of actors shooting a big-budget war movie are forced to become the soldiers they are portraying.
There are various hybrids genres which fall under the comedy genre such as:
Action comedy
Action comedy films combine comedy and action where the film stars combine wit and one-liners with a thrilling plot and daring stunts.
Example include
Rush Hour
Plot - About two cops Detective Lee and Detective James Carter FBI, two cops who share two different cultures and are from different worlds discover that they cant stand each other, however they most overcome the culture clash and thier relationship in order to catch the criminals and save the eleven-year-old Chinese girl.
Comedy horror is a type of horror film in which the usual dark themes are treated with a humorous approach.
Example Shaun of the Dead
Shaun of the dead – about a man decides to turn his life around by winning back his ex-girlfriend, reconciling his relationship with his mother, and dealing with an entire community that has returned from the dead to eat the living.
Fantasy comedy films are types of films that use magic, supernatural and or mythological figures for comic purposes. Most fantasy comedy includes an element of parody, or satire, turning many of the fantasy conventions on their head.
Night at the Muesum
A newly recruited night security guard at the Museum of Natural History discovers that an ancient curse causes the animals and exhibits on display to come to life and wreak havoc.
Sci-fi comedy films, like most hybrid genre of comedy use the elements of science fiction films to over the top extremes and exaggerated science fiction stereotypical characters.
Men in black
Two men who keep an eye on aliens in New York City must try to save the world after the aliens threaten to blow it up.
Military comedy films, involve comic situations in a military setting
Tropic Thunder
A group of actors shooting a big-budget war movie are forced to become the soldiers they are portraying.
Saturday, 2 October 2010
Science Fiction Films - Codes and Conventions
Science fiction films uses speculative and science based depictions of phenomena’s that are not necessarily accepted by mainstream science, such as extraterrestrial life, often alongside with futuristic elements such as spacecrafts and robots.
Therefore the codes and conventions within science fiction films would undoubtedly included science and technology. Science fiction films often focuses on political and social issues (examples include alive in joburg and district 9), and explore philosophical issues like the human condition (example yellow by Neil Blokamp).
Codes and Convention in science fiction
- Set in future
- Aliens worlds
- Time travels- travelling backwards and forwards through time has always been a popular in science fiction film
- Spacecrafts and robots
- Imaginative settings
- Alien abductions
- Galactic Empires that oppress everything
- Rebel(s) going against the empire
- Conflicts between alien and human
- The concept of extraterrestrial life is a popular convention in science fiction films, where the aliens are seen as a threat to the human race
The science fiction film genre has long been a tool for discussing controversial topics and issues, and providing us with thoughtful social commentary on potential unforeseen future issues.
The presentation of issues that are disturbing to an audience can be made more acceptable when they are explored in a future setting or on a different earth like world, and by keeping us entertained by using advanced technology such as CGI and special effects.
The altered context can allow for deeper examination and reflection of the ideas presented, with the perspective of a viewer watching remote events.
Most controversial issues in science fiction films tend to fall into two general story lines, Utopian or dystopian. Either a society will become better or worse in the future.
Therefore the codes and conventions within science fiction films would undoubtedly included science and technology. Science fiction films often focuses on political and social issues (examples include alive in joburg and district 9), and explore philosophical issues like the human condition (example yellow by Neil Blokamp).
Codes and Convention in science fiction
- Set in future
- Aliens worlds
- Time travels- travelling backwards and forwards through time has always been a popular in science fiction film
- Spacecrafts and robots
- Imaginative settings
- Alien abductions
- Galactic Empires that oppress everything
- Rebel(s) going against the empire
- Conflicts between alien and human
- The concept of extraterrestrial life is a popular convention in science fiction films, where the aliens are seen as a threat to the human race
The science fiction film genre has long been a tool for discussing controversial topics and issues, and providing us with thoughtful social commentary on potential unforeseen future issues.
The presentation of issues that are disturbing to an audience can be made more acceptable when they are explored in a future setting or on a different earth like world, and by keeping us entertained by using advanced technology such as CGI and special effects.
The altered context can allow for deeper examination and reflection of the ideas presented, with the perspective of a viewer watching remote events.
Most controversial issues in science fiction films tend to fall into two general story lines, Utopian or dystopian. Either a society will become better or worse in the future.
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