More questions on "Our friends in the North" Gender representations

How does 'Mary' change and how does this represent the wider context?

From this clip we can establish that 'Mary has grown more independent and somewhat more mature. Despite being in fear of 'Tosca' (her partner), she seems to retaliate and respond more to what her partner has to say. From her body language we can decipher her role within the clip. She acts unresponsive as though not paying attention to 'Tosca' however this could also be portrayed as fear, her fearing 'Tosca'.
Her character represents the wider context rather well to the female population this in turn proves that women's rights are still thought of today, however in contrast to the set time (1970's) the rights of women were developing.

What signs are there that 'Tosca' and 'Mary' hold different ideologies?

The gender convention within the clip is challenged from both perspectives of each gender. 'Mary's' ideology is that of starting to believe in the moral rights of women. The audience are able to tell that the female character is growing in confidence and is debating her viewpoint more with her partner. In contrast 'Tosca', like the previous clip, sees his role within the household as the supplier. He claims that he pays the bills and brings in financial support to his family.
He comes a across as more violent and tense.

Who is struggling with the shift in hegemony?

From the clip it is clear 'Tosca' appears to be the character who is struggling to come to terms with the shift in hegemony. He is reluctant to believe that his partner is growing in power. As their relationship worsen he is threatened by leaving the house which takes the wrong way.

How the camera work and editing is used to emphasise differences in the clip from "Our friends in the North"?

The clip on which we are analysing from "Our Friends In The North"




The clip begins with he master shot of 'Helen' and partner 'Nicky'. This shot features again later in the clip.
They appear to be very comfortable in the company of one another despite it being their first date. The female character of 'Helen' is made out to be rather snobbish, her look also gives off this impression. This stereotypical representation of the female character could be down to the idea of being from the southern region of country.

In comparison the couple in the other image (below), that being of 'Tosca' and 'Mary'. The camera work used utilises this couple, the shot is similar to the one above of the other couple, this represents a contrast between them.
These characters like the other male character 'Nicky' represent the Northern region.
'Tosca' is seen wearing a suit like the other male character, however it is known of his occupation. At that point it is possibly known that the suit is the only one owned by "Tosca".

From this screenshot we can determine a form of divide between the couple from the southern sector of the country (the couple on the left) and the couple from up North. It's as though the table represents the country.

The zoom of the camera could also connote argument.

The cold,hard stare from 'Helan' utilises her position in society. The close-up shows a state of more class compared to the image of 'Mary'.

She appears snobbish. It is as though the casters have put her into that role because of her distinctive features

Thriller film audience research

What I want to find out.....
1) The audience expectations of independent/mainstream film
2) If given the choice, what thriller film genre would you prefer to view and why?
3) If you saw a limping character, what would your perception of this person be like?
4) If at a certain location at night, how would you feel if on your own?
5) What attracts you to wanting to view a thriller film?

How I'm going to find out...
1) A written interview
2) Filmed interview
3) Questionnaire
4) Tape recording
5) A screening based around our thriller film idea
6) Mobile recording

What I expect to find out...
1) Peoples opinions on independent/mainstream films
2) Preference on thriller film genre
3) Opinions on viewing a limping character
4) Feelings/emotions on a certain location
5) What attraction thriller films have with people.

The results

I had decided to do tape recording however once i tried putting the recordings onto my blog, but i'm unable to, as videos and images are the only forms of media that can be put onto the blogs. As a result of this i am having to put the recordings into wording...
I had recorded 3 different people, all of which would fit into different age margins.
13+ Harry Jacobs (age 16)
21-40 James Keltie (age 32)
40+ Fiona Simmons (age 48)

Harry Jacob's responses to questions...
1) "I would expect to see moderate violence, weapons and car chases for mainstream films, however for independent films, i wouldn't expect anything to special such as explosions or car chases."
2) "Action, because they always have great storylines and renowned actors playing the roles of gangsters."
3) "It would depend on how they were dressed if they were dress poorly or living on the streets i would feel sorry for them whilst if the were in a suit i wouldn't think of them any different to me" 4) (Picture of dark alleyway shown) " I would feel uneasy, yet intimidated."
5) " I'm not sure, it's likely to have a great cast and a great storyline."

James Keltie's responses to questions...
1) "I would expect creepy, sinister figures in both mainstream and independent films, yet the problem is that the independent films won't have enough funding. Therefore the cast will lack experience and the film will lack special effects."
2) "Psychological as they have so many different contexts and different characters. I like putting myself in the shoes of the person solving the case, it's great fun trying to work out the case."
3) "I would feel lucky for what I've got"
4) (Picture of dark alleyway shown) " I would feel quite concerned and somewhat paranoid, continuously looking over my shoulder"
5) "Depending on what sort of thriller dictates whether or not I'll like it, but for instance in psychological thrillers I can think about the case and try and solve."

Fiona Simmons responses to questions...
1) "In a traditional thriller films, I would hope to see good acting, a puzzling plot which causes tension"
"I haven't watched any independent films before as they don't have enough publicity which is poor. If they were shown in cinemas i wouldn't mind watching them."
2) "I'm not to fussed. I enjoy Noir thrillers for there sinister settings and storylines however i don't mind watching any type of thriller."
3) "At my age I would certainly feel sorry for the person."
4) (Picture of dark alleyway shown)
"If i was there alone i would certainly have my handbag ready in such a creepy place. I would feel rather alone and vulnerable."
5) "I like how the film's suspense builds up, that's what makes a great thriller film."

Analysis

Overall I found out from the different the age groups that certain thriller films are suitable for a certain age groups. Of course my results are not conclusive as the survey was carried out by only 3 people.

From my results I can concur that the older viewers of thrillers, (those who were surveyed over the age of 21) prefer either Noir or psychological thrillers compared to the younger audience preference of action thrillers.
Question 1 was answered and the people predominatly said they preffered mainstream however they were open to the idea of watching an independent film.
All 3 people questioned said a similar answer. That being them saying that they would feel sorry for the person suffering from a limp.

the image shown to the people. It was shot off of Ber Street, behind Toni and Guy barbers' shop.

Youtube video of "The Walk"

If this video doesn't load then alternatively enter the below URL http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPF2ookmazc

Answers to Questions:

1) What camera and editing techniques and codes did you use in your film and how do they influence the audience’s understanding of the film? (e.g. camera angles and shot types etc; Match on action, Shot/ reverse shot , 180 degree rule)

When filming we used a variety of different shots in order to capture different aspects of the person within the film which develops the understanding of the film the film to capture different aspects of what the film is based on. Techniques in filming used such as the 18o degree rule which was used for the conversation between the two characters. Close-ups of the main character emphasise the storyline of "The Walk".

When it came to the editing we added transitions which added the effect of cutting to a different of where the filming took place eg: From pathway to door handle of entrance. Also the overlay of music (Paulo Nutuni- New Shoes) worked well as it fitted to the tempo of clip and fitted the storyline when it came to the conversation.

2) How did you use new technologies in your construction, planning and evaluation (e.g. digital cameras; non-linear editing software; YouTube and blog) and what skills do you have at using this technology? (Strengths and weaknesses. e.g. steady/ shakey camera; variety of shot types; smooth/ clumsy transitions; independence when using technologies…)

When it came to the filming of the clip we used tri-pods in order to keep the camera steady to keep a clean shot this was done for the conversation, however we used scruffy shots to make it look authentic for instance the shot where the camera is on the shoulder of the character. The non-linear editing software was easy to grow accustom to. the software was used to cut clips, add the soundtrack and fading out shots and adding transitions in order to crop the clip to the required 2 mins (max.). Once completed we uploaded the finished version of the prelim task onto Youtube and embedded the clip onto our blogs.

3) How successfully does your final product meet the brief?
Original Brief: “Continuity task involving filming and editing a character opening a door, crossing a room and sitting down in a chair opposite another character, with whom she/he then exchanges a couple of lines of dialogue. This task should demonstrate match on action, shot/reverse shot and the 180-degree rule.”

In my opinion the film fits the brief really well except from the point in which the dialogue between the characters cannot be heard. Therefore we added sub-titles which fit over the dialogue really well. The film features the above( in the question) of a character opening a door which features twice within the continuity task, the character crossing a room, sitting down and being involved in a conversation. The task also features the techniques of the 180 degree rule, action shots and reverse shots when it comes to the conversation.

Powerpoint on British Film Industry

Thriller film - Costume Ideas

Limping Man

• Casual clothing - making character look simple
• Black shoes/ possible smart clothing
• jumper
• possible suit for hitman look
• gloves/balaclava/ hat

Murdered Figure

• White hoodie
• Jeans/tracksuit bottoms
• Trainers
• entire outfit corressponds to character profile (later post)

Photographer

• Black Waistcoat
• Grey Trousers
• Grey Shirt
• Black Shoes

Forensic Scientist (1)

• White Overalls
• Face Masks

Forensic Scientist (2)

• White Overalls
• Face Masks

Qualitive questionnaire on audience research with answers.

This questionnaire like the previous one (The one on was sent to the 20 people like before however only half of them replied with their answers), they again were the 6 girls to 4 boys.

1) How do you prefer to view film?

At home
Through the internet
At the cinema

2) How do you hear about films?

Through teletext
Magazines
Trailers
On the radio
On the television

3) When going to the cinema who do you prefere to go with?

Family
Friends
On your own
With your girlfriend/Boyfriend

4) Which cinema do you prefere?

Odeon (Riverside)
Vue (Castle Mall)
Hollywood Cinema (Anglia Square)
Cinema City (St. Andrews Street)

4) i) Reasoning for cinema preference

It's cheaper
Better food
Better seating
Better quality of sound within cinema screening


Answers to the questions

1)
At home 3
Through the internet 2
At the cinema 5

2)
Through teletext 0
Magazines 1
Trailers 3
On the radio 1
On the television 5

3)
Family 2
Friends 5
On your own 1
With your girlfriend/boyfriend 2

4)
Odeon (Riverside) 4
Vue (Castle Mall) 4
Hollywood Cinema (Anglia Square) 1
Cinema City (St. Andrews Street) 1

4) i)
It's Cheaper 3
Better Food 3
Better Seating 3
Better quality of sound within Screening 1...

"The Usual Suspects" (Independent Research)

"The Usual Suspects" (25 August 1995) director-'Bryan Singer'

The opening credits features entire darkness, which appears to be the darkness of the sky, this is established when a sliver of white light is seen (chiaroscuro lighting, light on dark). The sliver of light is a reflection on the water from the moon, in the night sky. Just from this the audience can sense that the unnerving credits represent that the film is going to be a thriller film. After 36 seconds the title of the film appears. The music also cuts in, it connotes anticipation from the fast tempo it has.
After the credits, "San Pedro" appears at the bottom of the screen, to engage the audience.

The film starts with the ending. A close-up of an incineration of a match is seen as the first shot, which connotes danger. A character is seen. The camera then follows a stream of flowing petrol from the barrel which it came from. From the shots already seen, it appears that the character is in some form of engine room. The trickling of the liquid creates danger especially after seeing match being lit. The character drops the match on to the liquid.
The camera follows the trail of the flame which arose from the liquid. The flame is brought to an abrupt end when a liquid from above puts the flame out. The camera scrolls up to balcony where another character is seen, however this characters face can't be seen connoting mystery. The camera then reverts to the first character.
The unseen character is seen progressing down a small flight of steps. Then a close-up of his feet walking passed a dead body connotes mystery as the dead body is not known. Close-up of chest of unknown figure, the characters voice is heard for the first time. Still this characters face isn't seen despite the dialect with the first character.
The shadowy figure draws a gun, the camera emphasises the dominance of the armed character as it's pointed at the first character.
It then cuts to the location which hasn't previously been seen. The non-diagetic sound of gunshots is heard. After the second shot, music cuts in connoting death. Images from different sections of the boats are seen (non-ambient lighting). It then cuts back to the action where barrels are shot with the contents of them leaking. A slow-motion shot is used to emphasise the potential danger of the unknown figure dropping a lit cigarette onto the running liquid, like previously the camera tracks the flame. The figure is seen running up the small flight of steps, fleeing the scene. It then cuts to a shot of the location then suddenly a giant inferno is seen(sound of explosion, diagetic).

Cuts to point of view shot of a police interview.
A flashback is used to bring other characters who feature in film. During this sequence of filming this characters the establishing shots of them see get arrested in corresponding to voice over. The sound of a machine is used in one of the flashbacks represents gunfire, which connotes violence.

A close-up of the feet of a character suffering from a limp diagetic sound of footsteps is heard.
All 5 of the characters('Kint', 'Keaton', 'Hockney', 'Fenster', 'McMannus') that were shown is the flashback are then seen in a police line-up. As they step forward to say a statement. Each time a close-up is used, this sequence connotes imprisonment, as though convicted.
Again the voice over starts. During the course of the interviewing of the characters the voice over is used over the top of the dialect, telling of the characters previous convictions. This used on 2 other characters interviews.

Cuts to shot of 'Keaton' in front of jail bars as though imprisoned (close-up). This shot connotes what the future for the character could be, "a life behind bars". He is then lead into the cell where the other characters also are.
From the sequence in the jail cell the audience establish that 'McMannus' appears to be the ring-leader in the group, the alpha-male somewhat, from the shot of him from a low angle, looking down at 'Keaton'.
The voice over is used to engage audience, the story is being told from the perspective of 'Kint'.

Cuts back to San Pedro, the day after the incident. Close-up of dead body is seen. The camera then zooms out gradually to reveal more burnt bodies which are being covered by body bags. A new character is introduced 'Inspector Baer' ('Baer'). He is introduced by viewing the dead bodies(over the shoulder shot). The music used connotes anticipation. The camera then draws away from 'Baer' and rises to show the wreckage of the cargo ship where the explosion took place.
A body is then seen floating a fair distance away from the ship, close-up from behind body.

Cuts back to police station to show 2 new characters. 'Dave' and 'Jeffery' are the new characters introduced in a tracking two-shot.

After seeing a survivor from the inferno (Hungarian character), 'Kint' is seen speaking to one of the detectives, 'Dave'. 'Verbal Kint' doesn't look like a potential dangerman. The camera then zooms into his eyes (extreme close-up).
This transition leads the plot back to the restaurant the place where 'Keaton' was arrested. 'Kint' walks past 'Keates' and his partner and glares directly at the camera which connotes intimidation this is seen from the perspective of 'Keates'.
The title music cuts in to connote tension.
Cuts to a two shot which is used to portray 'Keates' dominance and power over 'Kint' when pinning him against a wall. Having discussed a heist the sound of ticking occurs, perhaps the ticking of a clock connoting a countdown to something, tension.

An aeroplane is seen taking off and landing. The voice over tells of what is taking place to involve the audience with what is happening. A point of view shot is used to show one of the characters point of view of the heist. First off a character is seen entering a police car (secret taxi service for crooked criminals). The car follows the police car.
32 minutes into the film, having pinned in the vehicle, the gang seize the police car. A close-up of one of the gang members is seen from the perspective of one of the policemen, smashing the windscreen of the car in. A gun is pointed at the character with the money this connotes the gangs dominance.
Having poured petrol over the vehicle, 'Keates' is seen spectating the action through the car wing-mirror(close-up). The gang then sets the vehicle alight.
It then cuts to what occurs after the incident, it shows news crews, firemen and policemen at the scene. A birds-eye view shot captures the burnt vehicle being seized by emergency vehicles.

Cuts to landscape shot of a large city, which appears to be 'New York city' at dusk. In the gang's hideout they are seen discussing there heist. Close-up shot of emeralds upon table next to stack of money.
It then reverts back to 'Kint' explaining what took place in interview with 'Jeffery', the diagetic sound of the tape recorder rotating and clicking can be heard.
Scene 15 of the film sees a trade, at a promenade under the noir lighting. The trade is with 'Red Foot'. the generic signifier of a briefcase is seen as part of the trade, the contents inside of the briefcase can't be seen to connote mystery.

Cut's to low angle shot of a large skyscraper building of a large corporation. On one of the levels is a carpark. The carpark has a damp and dingy look to it (generic signifier), the green non-ambient lighting makes the carpark an unnerving place.
4 Men are seen entering the carpark, and as soon as they get into the car the gang use violence in order to get what they want. The music used creates tension.

In a retreat the characters are seen celebrating their latest heist. However lingering in the shadows (noir lighting) is a mysterious character, 'Mr Kobayashi'. 'Kobayashi' delivers a briefcase to the gang (generic signifier) after giving them a brief on a heist what they help in, a heist on a drug-smuggling, Argentine cargo ship.
Within the briefcase are separate documents with the names of each of the 5 gang members on. Inside are the details on previous offences that they have caused.

Back at the policestation, 'Kint' tells of 'Sozai' having been asked who he is by the detective. He tells him of who he is. In the mise-en-scene the story of the 'Sozai' is told in motion, whilst 'Kint' tells the tale.
He then refers back to the night of when the gang found 'Fenster' dead in a dark and claustrophobic cave on the shoreline. The noir lighting creates fear, the light comes behind the characters from a rotating signal beam from a lighthouse.

In revenge for 'Fenster's' death the remaining gang members go after 'Kobayashi' who they believe killed 'Fenster'.
In the elevator shaft the camera looks down at an approaching elevator, which 'Kobayashi' is in along with his security guards. The elevator is an enclosed space/claustrophobic which connotes entrapment. When the power failure kicks in, the darkness within the closed space connote fear. When the lights are turned back on 'Kobayashi' sees that both men in the lift with him are dead.

At the port(1hr13mins)'Keaton' walks on the wooden footpath, lit by small lamps (noir lighting) could connote a path to death when walking towards the ship. 'McMannus' is seen on a roof, armed with a sniper rifle. When aiming, the close-up of his eye against the scope of the sniper connotes tension, whilst the sweat upon his forehead connotes pressure.
Having seized a car full of full of wooden crates, he lifts the lid on them to reveal money, however he is then shot from behind by an unknown figure (reference back to start of film). The close-up of the bullet wound through his waist connotes violence.

In the cargo ship, a point of view shot is used to show a creeping shadow in the background. A handle on a door being turned connotes mystery and anticipation.
The camera draws away from a cabin window the spray of blood on the window is seen whilst the sound of gun fire occurs.
'McMannus' is stabbed right before the eyes of 'Keaton' before he is then meleed. From 'Kint's' perspective he witnesses 'Keaton' being shot, by the unknown figure.
He then sees the figure drop the cigarette which causes the inferno.

It then cuts to the police department again with 'Kint' explaining to 'Jeffery' that the unknown figure is that of 'Kaizer Souzai'.
Yet when when told by the policemen that 'Keaton' is 'Souzai', then 'Keaton' can't be dead as audience have just viewed death of 'Keaton' being shot from 'Kint's' perspective.

He then lets 'Kint' walk free, having not being able to get sufficient information needed to push the case forward.
However moments after letting the crippled character walk free, 'Jeffery' is able to piece together the evidence. Slow-motion close-up of him dropping cup.

'Kint is seen walking free outside then suddenly he loses his limp and walks normally. A car stops by to pick him up. In the car is 'Kobayashi'.The sound of 'Kint's voice is heard as 'Jeffery' gives chase to him. But as he steps outside in the background 'Kint' is seen getting into the car.

Possible title names for thriller film.

This is the list for possible title names which could be used for the name of the thriller film which we are creating.
They are listed in order of my preference.

- Crippling Intentions
- Distorted Shadows
- Crooked Shadows
- The One With The Limp
- The Terrace
- Murder In The Dark
- Addressed To You
- No Need For Introductions
- Murderous Memoirs
- Usual Shadows
- It Was Written In Blood
- Secret Shade Of Shadow
- Cruel Intentions
- Blood Red Sky At Night, Murderers Delight
- Stranglehold
- Red Knife,Blue Heart
- Fluxation Of Shadows
- The Comedown
- Cold Case
- From Dusk Til' Dawn
- Shadow Sneak
- Chasing Shadows
- Chasing Chances
- Tracker
- Crippled Knife
- The Block
- The Scene
- On The Edge

Narrative structure for Thriller film

Shot 1

A limping figure is seen progressing up an alleyway, coming towards the camera. The character leaves the poorly lit alleyway to come out onto a roadside.

Shot 2

The character removes a piece of paper from his pocket (close up action). Close-up of face looking down at paper,Camera focuses on face of character. Only parts of face can be seen due to dull lit street (flickering street lights, noir lighting).

Shot 3

The character is seen stumbling up a sloped street heading towards a block of flats. Noir lighting shot taken from other side of street. (Noir lighting used to show faded effect of character outline.)

Shot 4

Like in shot 2, the character looks once again at the piece of paper (close-up) the camera sees a number which appears to be part of an address.
The camera then rotates to view the block of flats which were seen in the foreground in one of the previous shots(2). The camera then shows a close-up of a street name sign.

Shot 5

Cuts to the block of flats, where the shady, limping figure is seen from a different personnel's perspective. This character is located on the flat balcony footpath. The camera angle is an over the shoulder shot which also features the other character below him showing dominance.

Shot 6

The character retreats into a flat, the camera follows him up until the point were the door is basically shut in the face of you (engaging audience,Point of view). The camera is then looking straight at the door number of the flat, which relates to the piece of paper that the limping man has.

Shot 7

Tracking shot of the limping man, staggering up the flights of stairs during this sequence of filming there will be close-ups of the characters feet and waist upwards except face.
Poor lighting in stair well. Eerie feel to place connoting tension.

Shot 8

Have ascended the flights of stairs the character limps towards the camera like with first shot except the location has changed, he is this time on the flat walkway.
Extreme close-up of eyes, suddenly looks at the door number (extreme close up), then reverts back to eyes.
The character places the his hand on the door knob/handle and twists. Having then opened the door the character progresses through the door(pitch black nothing can be seen).
The door closes.

Shot 9

Transition of a strong flash from a camera. The camera then films from the inside of the flat, The camera immediately shows a slurred bloody hand print on the glass window Paine connoting struggle and violence). The camera then draws back to reveal the state in which the flat is in, Broken objects lay on the floor (eg: flowerpots). Forensic scientists can also be seen searching the crime scene.
When the camera has drawn back enough it starts to lower and a body can be seen(close-up) however the face of the murdered victim can't be seen connoting suspicion mystery.

Shot 10

Again a flash transition is used to return to the night of the murder.The door is pulled closed and the bloody hand print is seen.(close-up).
To end the filming the camera catches a glimpse of a shadow leaving the scene of the crime connoting suspicion and mystery.
This cliffhanger also makes a great ending for the ending of the thriller film opening.

Tip:FAKE BLOOD (by the bucket full)

This i believe would be helpful for the thriller film which i have been developing on. This is for creating a bucket full of fake blood.

This is what is needed in order to create the red stuff.

Mix the following:

1 Litre of honey
5 litres of water
3 tablespoons of red food colouring
1/2 a teaspoon of blue food colouring
1/2 a cup of milk (for density)

Research into audiences-Research findings

Here are the answers to the questionnaire which i had produced. Out of the possible 20 people that the questionnaire was e-mailed to, only 10 people replied with their results.
From these results i can hopefully find the distinctives between certain areas in which i have asked.
The questionnaire was sent to 10 females and 10 males however 6 out of the 10 females had replied in contrast to the 4 out of 10 males who had replied to the e-mail.

Question 1
This question was rather daft however this was answered by those who had replied.
Answer:
6 Male
4 Female

Question 2
Answer:
At the cinema 2Females 2Males
At home 4 Females 2Males
On the Internet 0

Question 3
Answer:
Action 2 males 0 female
Horror 3 females 1 male
Romantic 1 female 1 male
Animation 0
Other 1 male 2 females

Question 4
Answer:
jobs
Waiter
ICT
Gymnastics coach
Student
Student
Student
Student
Sales assistant
Sales assistant
Sales assistant

Question 5
Answer:
Topman
Atticus
New Look
New Look
Topshop
H&M
Primark
Criminal Damage
Primark
Topshop

Question 6
Answer:
Yes 6 people
No 4 people

Question 7
Answer:
Pop 2
Indie 3
Alternative 1
Rock 2
R'n'B 4

Question 8
Answer:
Yes 0
No 10

Question 9
Answer:
Yes 7
N0 3
7 people wouldn't state what they had downloaded
whilst 3 people did.

Question 10
Answer:
1 No
9 Yes

Initial research into the habits of British film audiences.

This is the questionarre i have produced, which will be used to see if the audiences view specific film genres from my results that will be collected.
The questionarre produced will be given out to people in order to collect my data.

Proposal for initial research into the habits of British Film Audiences

For my research I shall be focusing on audience segmentations, by getting people in my tutor group to fill out a 10 question questionnaire based on many different questions. All of these questions vary and are closed questions; this will then hopefully give significant data for me to conclude my research.

The questionnaire

Name

1) What gender are you?
□Male □Female

2) How do prefer to watch films?
□At the cinema □At home □On the Internet

3) What is your favourite genre of film?
□Action □Horror □Romantic □Animation □Other
If you ticked other, please state preferred genre

4) What job do you have? Please state.

5) What is your favourite brand of clothing? Please State.

6) Do have a girlfriend/boyfriend?
□Yes □No

7) What is your favourite genre of music? Please State.

8) Are you Religious? If so which faith do you believe in?
Please State.

9) Have you ever downloaded anything illegally?
□Yes □No
If you ticked yes please state what it was you downloaded?

10) Do you stick to the age restrictions on films?
□Yes □No

(Independent Research) "Psycho"

"Psycho" (4 August 1960) Director-'Alfred Hitchcock'

"Psycho" is a noir thriller. The entire film is filmed in black and white.
The opening credits of the film features a blinds effect. The credits sequence is long to build up tension and create hype.The music used connotes a sense of of fear and suspicion.
After viewing the opening title sequence, the audience view a panning shot of a large, recognisable city, this shot engages the audience as it could be seen as a point of view shot.

The first character encountered is a stylish, seductive blond women, who in many ways could be seen as a femme fatale. Along side her in the bed is male character 'Tom' who the audience then find out through the dialogue between both characters is having an affair with the femme fatale
(an irresistibly attractive woman, esp. one who leads men into difficult, dangerous, or disastrous situations.)
The engaging shot of the camera rotating involves the audience with the going on. Music cuts in when the couple discuss their future, it connotes sorrow. The next shot shows the man looking through a window which appears to be opaque, this shot could represent him looking into the future, a future between himself and the lady she is having an affair with.

After the opening film sequence, it cuts to the female character at her workplace. At this point the female characters name is established, 'Marian'. Her boss and a property developer ('Tom'). There is a over the shoulder shot of himself and 'Marian' when involved in conversation. This shot also portrays the gender convention which perhaps during the time in which the film is set,(1950/60's) would of been seen as.The property tycoon takes a liking to the femme fatale character. Transition of from workplace to bedroom where main character establishing shots take place. Tracking shot of femme fatale around the bedroom looking in the closets suspiciously. On the camera cuts to the character placing money from a briefcase(Generic signifier of thriller films) into her handbag, this sequence is shot as a close-up. She then slips her passport into her purse (close-up of action). The music connotes suspicion.

Cuts to 'Marian' (femme fatale) inside of a car as she pulls away from her household she hears voices. Those being her lover's, boss's and Tom's telling of what they said to her, this connotes confusion. At a set of traffic lights she pulls away in fear at the sight of seeing her boss.

The next sequence of shots begin with 'Marian' awakening in the car having pulled over to sleep. She awakes to see a policemen walking towards her vehicle through her wing mirror.
In a rush she is seen gathering up her documents when being spoken to (two shot of Femme fatale and policemen). Dramatic music cuts in connoting anticipation. As the policemen draws away from the car, close-up of 'Marian' pulling away. Cuts to a mirror shot of policemen gaining in rear-view mirror. The car chase is a generic signifier of a thriller film.

She arrives at a car sale's garage. After seeing the policeman pull over on the other side of the road, 'Marian' is eager to conceal her identity she does this by buying a newspaper which she puts in front of her face connoting mystery. In order to outwit the cops she decides to buy a new car to replace her old one. The use of the over the shoulder shot captures the conversation between the car dealer and 'Marian'.

Tracking shot of femme fatale walking towards the toilet. Whilst in the toilet she pulls out the needed money from her handbag(close-up). The cop car drives into the car sale's garage just as the transaction of money from 'Marian' to the car dealer,connotes tension. She hurry's into her purchased vehicle and drives off.

Having drove off, she again hears voices, this connotes confusion and anxiety. Close-up of 'Marian's' face. She appears somewhat possessed as the driving rain hits the windscreen (sound of rain hitting window). Due to the vast amount of rain she decides to pull over at a motel. The lighting from the motel sign reflects off of the characters face.

Having acquired a room she is seen signing her name on to a booking register (close-up of signature). She is shown to her room by an eager member of staff who appears to take a liking to the femme fatale character.

'Marian' opens the window of the room in which she is staying in,room 1, it is still raining heavily at this point in the film. The staff member asks 'Marian' up to his house which is on the top of the hill along side the motel. The house an eerie feel to it. It looks more like something out of a horror film with it's gothic look. Upon being asked 'Marian' accepts.

She is then seen storing the stolen money in the newspaper,the moonlight from outside beams through the open window (noir lighting). The male staff member leads 'Marian' into his office for the arranged meal. On the walls there are male different species of dead birds placed on stands. The close-ups of the birds connote death, anxiety is seen in the face of the female character as though stressed.

When seen signing the sheet of paper, it reads 'Marian Crane'. Her name is a notion of the dead birds upon the walls of the office.

"Psycho" is famous for it's shower scene and soundtrack. At this point in the film the music is used to create tension and anticiapation. The camera shots used in the sequence are taking from a point of view of the murder which engages the audience. The shot of the shadow on the wall showing the stabbing of the victim is genius as it connotes mystery by not allowing the audience to see who has commited the offence.

Understand the purpose of camera angles,lighting and in "The Third Man"

"The Third Man" 1946 Director -'Carol Reed'

"The Third Man" is a black and white film more commonly known as a 'Noir' film.

The soundtrack called the 'Harry Lime' theme is played during the opening credits. The soundtrack connotes one of the characters in the film, 'Harry Lime'. It indicates from it's jolly melody, that the character 'Harry Lime' is cheerful, clever and somewhat of a comedian. However this music doesn't bide well with the thriller genre.
The film is set in Vienna, Austria just after the war. The soundtrack played over the shot of the city portrays that Vienna is glamorous and easy on the eye which connotes 'Harry Lime's' charm.
After the opening credits a voice is heard. The use of the voice over engages the audience.
This voice tells of the black market trade which is taking place within Vienna. The shot of the briefcase which is a generic signifier of thriller films, is shot on a slight tilt angle. When opened the camera catches the items within the case by using a close-up shot. all of these shots are simple to show the audience what is taking place.

The landscape shot of Vienna shows a sunken ship, along side it lays a dead person washed a shore. This connotes violence from the war.

The establishing shot of 'Holly Martins' is that of a close-up before he he leaves the train he is on. The voice over is that of his voice. His costume is similar to that worn by the lead character in "Once upon a time in America".
After leaving the train station 'Martins heads towards a hotel which is owned by his good friend 'Harry Lime'. The shot of him walking under a ladder connotes superstition and bad luck.
Upon entering the hotel, he walks up a stair well, however the shot shows his shadow from a different angle to what it should, perhaps the shadow is somebody Else's, this shot connotes mystery and illusion.

After hearing the news of the tragic death of his best friend, a high angle, close-up is used to show the dispair upon 'Martin's' face.
He travels to the graveyard where the funeral for 'Lime' is taking place. He runs into a British policemen named 'Callaway' who directs him to the funeral service.

At the burial, there is a two-shot of two suspicious looking men. Also at the funeral is that of widow of the deceased, 'Anna' who is made out to look like a femme fatale from her glamorous dress. From the close-up of her face she appears to be Enigmatic (difficult to understand) and inscrutable (hard to read) from her solome facial expressions. Despite being a femme fatale she is not depicted in any sexual way.
The transition shot relates to 'Anna's' sadness which catches the attention of 'Holly'.
All of the shots that feature within the sequence of filming for the funeral shots are all taken using close-ups.

After the funeral, 'Martin's' is seen in a bar. The tilt shot of him with 'Callaway' in the background represents the way 'Martin's' is feeling, drunk. Seating on his own makes 'Holly' seem Vulnerable.
He is then made to look like a fool by 'Callaway' teasing and mocking him, this could be a stereotypical viewpoint to make it look as though Americans aren't as clever as British.
'Holly' then claims that he will solve 'Limes' murder.

The next scene starts with the audience viewing 'Anna' acting, perhaps with her acting skills she isn't made out to be whom she seems, connotes disguise and split personality.
This then leads to 'Holly' starting his enquiries with 'Anna' at her apartment. The low-angle tilt shot of the butler and 'Martin's' cuts Anna out of the image this connotes suspicion. Then suddenly she is seen removing a photograph from 'Lime's' dressing table of her at the funeral of her dead partner however this can' t be possible, upon seeing the image there is a sense of suspicion.
Throughout the film there are no subtitles for when the Austrian natives are speaking so neither the audience or 'Martin's' can understand what is being said.
Whilst talking to 'Anna' at the window of the apartment a cat can be seen beyond both characters, 'Anna' and 'Holly'.

Having seen 'Callaway' search the apartment of 'Anna's', and having her fake passport taken away from her she is then depicted through a window as though framed.
'Martin's' and 'Anna' are then seen fleeing from a building and down some steps escaping from angry mob, this shot is taken from a low angle.

At the circular stair case the camera shows 'Martin's' face looking up showing the many flights of stairs. The stair well connotes confusion and 'Martin's' incapability to solve the case of 'Lime's' murder. (52 minutes into film)
After leaving the there the is a shot of him running through many streets, the Austrian streets are like a labyrinth that 'Martin's' is unable escape from.
Yet when he catches his breathe he spots a cat, (seen in a earlier apartment window 30 minutes in film). There is a close-up shot of the cat playing with the shoe strings of a disguised man lingering in the shadows. A light from an above apartment shines upon the face. The close up of the non-ambient lighting shining on the character connotes unanswered questions. This character turns out to be 'Harry Limes'.
After dialogue between the two male characters, 'Lime's' flees with 'Martin's' in hot pursuit.
He leads 'Martin's' into the Vienna sewers. The police get involved (1hr 35mins). They to are chasing 'Lime'. The sewers are a claustrophobic space which connote imprisonment.

The vanishing point of the tunnel which 'Lime' dashes for signifies freedom, "light at the end of the tunnel".
Footsteps can be heard in the sewage water(non-diagetic) however the character cannot be seen, not until a search light catches him running (Chiascruro lighting).
The amazing shot of 'Lime' surrounded by different sewage paths in an empty part of the sewer, is drowned out by the calling echos of the police hunting him. this connotes paranoia and anxiety.

Having been shot 'Lime's' makes one last effort to escape however his escape route is blocked by metal grills. there is then a close-up of his fingers through the grills which connotes being trapped.
'Martin's' then shoots 'Lime'.

the film ends where it started, at the funeral of 'Harry Lime'. The 'Harry Lime' theme starts to play again like it did at the start.

Aspire, Reach (My perfume advert)

perfume Picture main.psd
Originally uploaded by Craig V-CNS Media

My perfume advert would be aimed at Men between the ages of of 18 and maximum aged 30. It would appeal to them if they believe that they can see themselves in the image reaching for something, aspiring some what. It would be aimed at those who are deem themselves to be either 'Mainstreamer's', 'Aspirers/Social climbers' or 'Esteem seekers'.

The above type of people strive towards excellence, with their desire to succeed in life through ambition.

The camera angle used for the image was a slight low angle shot of the model reaching up, this gives the impression of aspiring and ambition. Having then placed the models image onto the background I then moved the image of him, to make it look as though he is reaching over the balcony.

The font I used for the brand name of my perfume relates to the image and also how the font is simply and delicate, looking as though in a dream.

The image was created using the programme "photoshop". In my opinion the programme was fairly simple to use, the tools that you are able to use in order for the Creator of the image to make certain effects. The fonts used on the image where downloaded from "Dafont", being able to get a font which suits the perfume brand and name was key. Having got the font i then edited them in "photoshop" to change the font outline and colour.
The image created represents the male social group rather well in my opinion. The model used in the image captures different aspects within the social group, claiming that all men are ambitious and brave. The use of a younger model in the picture means that it is aimed towards the age group of the model, which therefore is saying that the younger generation of males have more desire and ambition in order to succeed.

How does 'Quentin Tarantino' challenge the covention of the thriller genre in "Jackie Brown".

"Jackie Brown" (20 March 1998) Director- 'Quentin Tarantino'

In the film "Jackie Brown", 'Tarantino' has used a female character for the lead role in the film. The character is middle aged, black women whom from her outfit appears to be an airline stewardess.

During the opening sequence the camera is always at a low angle and continually tracking this female character, this shows 'Tarantino's' admiration for this actress.
The use of close-ups show her dominant pose as she strolls towards where she is going. The low angle also connotes dominance.
At one point in this sequence their is a young child (holding a balloon)who appears to be looking at this character in awe, the camera angles used make her seem like role-model.

Scene 2

Other characters are introduced 'Ordell' (Samuel L. Jackson) and 'Louis' (Robert De Niro) in establishing shots. Both characters are introduced viewing a television programme, the programme which is called "girls with guns".During the opening titles of that programme the audience see a animated 'Statue of Liberty' with a weapon this connotes that America is a violent place.Again this perceived when a women wearing a 'stars and strips' (American flag) bikini is shown holding a weapon. Women are objectified in this programme which the 2 characters are viewing.
Later in the scene 'Ordell's' girlfriend/wife does whatever he asks her to do these connotes the typical gender convention of men being dominant over women.

'Ordell' has some business to take care of later that night. He visits some worn down apartments which appear to part of a motel, the use of noir lighting in this setting connotes theres something sinister about to occur.
In this apartment is the character, 'Beaumont' who when asked agrees to aid 'Ordell' with the job that needs to be done. He accepts are some debating.

The next shot shows both of them behind the boot of the car,the boot opens. The camera angle used is a low angle shot showing 'Ordell' holding a guy before 'beaumont'. 'Ordell's' position and stance connote strengh and dominance over the unarmed 'Beaumont'.
The boot which 'Beaumont' is then forced into is a generic signifier of a thriller film as you don't know what may be in it, not knowing connotes a sense of mystery. Through this sequence of shooting the noir lighting is non-ambient so that the characters can just be seen.

The next shot of 'Ordell' is a straight shot of him through the windscreen of the car. a close-up of his hands show him opening the glove compartment, to reveal a gun and a pair of gloves. 'Ordell' is then seen putting the gloves on.
He drives off to a remote area with 'Beaumont' shouting as he is still locked within the claustrophobic confinements of the boot.
When he pulls up (21 minutes into film) he is surrounded by an undeveloped urban area.

'Ordell' picks up the gun, steps out of the car. However not much can be seen due to the use of chiaroscuro lighting which connotes a sense of danger and suspense. The boot is opened, the gun which was is the glove compartment is heard. 'Beuamont' is shot dead in case he medels with 'Ordell's' plans.
The extreme long shot from which the action takes place suggests detachment and cold hearted emotion which correspond with Ordell's character.

The murder of 'Harlem'-"Thelma and Louise" ,Understanding element's of Thrillers.

Thelma And Louise (12 July 1991) Director- 'Ridley Scott'

This sequence of film from 'Ridley Scott's', "Thelma and Louise" shows certain aspects and techniques used in thriller films.

After the introduction to the film and establishing the main characters, 'Thelma' and 'Louise' set off on their planned trip. The part on the film which i shall be focusing on is the sequence of film, stretching from the entrance of the Country/Western dance bar to the escape of our characters.
After stopping off at a bar the characters, let there hair down to enjoy the lively, party atmosphere. This setting of the bar is crowded and isn't where you expect violence to occur.
Having consumed a vast amount of alcohol 'Thelma' eventually becomes drunk. Whilst dancing she finds an interest in a male character named 'Harlen'.
Fellow character 'Louise' having guarded her friend from the attention of men, she visits the toilet and leaves a vulnerable 'Thelma' on her own. The fellow she has caught the eye of 'Harlem' takes her outside to get some air as she feels unwell from drinking.

The change in the mise-en-scene is quick. A panning shot of the dark carpark is seen, this shot takes the engaged audience to the action which is about to unfold. The carpark is damp, urban and unnerving from the use of noir lighting, this connotes a sense of fear and anticipates that something violent may occur. The emptiness of the carpark which 'Thelma' is in, connotes exposure and vulnerability.

The audience then view 'Harlem' trying to take advantage of 'Thelma'. The continual use of action engages the audience to make them see what struggle and torment she is going through. The close-up of 'Thelma' slapping 'Harlem', then shows the anxiety and frustration upon his face. He them slaps her in retaliation.
He then forces her over the bonnet of the car and attempts to rape her, the camera catches both characters emotions using close-ups. 'Thelma' is traumatised by what is going on however 'Harlem' aggressiveness is shown through his straining face.

Suddenly a non-diagetic sound of a gun is heard, the camera scrolls slightly towards the right to reveal 'Louise' holding a gun. With gun in hand the convention of the males power and dominance is challenged.
Having threatened 'Harlem' with the gun pressed against his head, he backs away from 'Thelma'.
'Harlem' then claims whilst the girls backs are turned, "B***h. I should have gone ahead and f***ed her." 'Louise' pulls the trigger and shoots 'Harlem'.

In some ways both Thelma and Louise are "Femme Fatales"(dictionary definition-an irresistibly attractive woman, especially one who leads men into difficult, dangerous, or disastrous situations). In a sense 'Thelma's' costume and generally "pretty" appearance makes her bait for men such as 'Harlem', it also connotes objectification. On the other hand 'Louise's' costume connotes strength as her costume is more masculine than 'Thelma's' clothing.

How does Terry Windsor utilises the forms and conventions of the Thriller genre in "Essex Boys".

"Essex Boys" (14 July 2000) Director- Terry Windsor

The black background behind the opening credits/titles immediately suggest a dark and dangerous story, the soundtrack playing in the background suggests suspense.
The first shot of the movie is generic. The chiaroscuro lighting(light upon darkness technique) injects the mise-en-scene with a sense of illusion whilst the enclosed space suggests claustrophobia and vulnerability as well as intimidation.
When the door of the garage is opened the lighting shows a unused car surrounds in cobwebs. The cobwebs add a sense of fear, which is usually associated more with the horror genre. Meanwhile the car seen in the image is a representative of one of the main characters,'Jason' who has been locked up in prison, like the car being imprisoned in the garage.

The diagetic sound gives the mise-en-scene a realistic or authentic tone as the story of the film is based on true events. The non-ambient lighting indicates a stylish interpretation of these events that occurred. Within the opening sequence, the camera is always still and focused on the characters in the garage.
The voice over is based on the young male character. The use of the voice over makes the story more realistic this in turn engages the audience bringing them into the story as the character is directly speaking to the audience, giving them his perspective on the story.

The establishing shot of 'Jason Locke' takes up 2 thirds of the camera lense. the close-up of his face and shoulders shows culture and lifestyle from the shirt that he is wearing, the image also shows the stern emotion upon 'Jason's' face.

The next scene shows the characters setting off in the car. one shot during this sequence is a point of view shot following the vehicle into a tunnel. The tunnel is shaped like a barrel of shotgun symbolizing the end or start of something such as an era. The gloomy lit tunnel connotes suspense, the lights also lead into a vanishing point.
The streams of light reflecting off of the car windscreen resemble the bars of a prison cell,as though representing that the young character is trapped or imprisoned in the car with 'Jason'. Again the vanishing point could connote that the road leads to prison just as long as he's with 'Jason'.
As the vehicle exits the tunnel the camera angle reverts back a point of view shot(just like whats seen when the car enters the tunnel), this shot engages the audience, tracking the movement of the other vehicle and 'Jason'. Within the mise-en-scene the audience can see that the roads are sodden damp this convention fits into the thriller genre, a bridge can also be seen it could connote that the young character has chosen the wrong route.

After arriving at the destination which 'Jason' wanted to go to, he rushes out of the vehicle to take care of someone who caused him to go to prison. The strong violence and throwing of acid into this mans eyes is typical of a thriller film, during this sequence there is a rapid interchange between shots. The shot of the Young boy witnessing the violence through the car wing mirror enables the audience to see what he does from his angle.
'Jason' then chucks the man into the back of a white van. A white van is a generic signifier of thriller films.
After the scene of violence, the characters take the man(who is temporarily blind from having acid thrown into his face) is taken to a remote part of the 'Essex Marshes'. Having opened the latched door of the van, the man jumps out of the vehicle to find himself lost unknowing where he is. 'Jason' and his protoche then leave the man to die in the uninhabited marshland.
The featureless, uninhabited and dull marshland suggests/connotes 'Jason's' morality and emotions.

Once upon a time in America-How does Sergio Leoni utilise generic conventions in the 'mise-en-scene' in the film

The establishing shot of the 'Eve', is a close up(silhouette) of her in the frame of the doorway. This shot gives of the impression as though she has been set up, as though framed.This establishing shot instantly suggests that the genre of this film is a Thriller because of the light
("Chiaroscuro Lighting", light on dark) reflecting off of her pearl necklace that she is wearing it also shines upon some of her face.


As she progresses through the the door into the living room there is the non-diagetic sound (Aural signifier) outside the mise-en-scene, one of which being the charactors footsteps. The other playing in the background. The song, "God Bless America" is being played.This somewhat is ironic, as 'Leoni' is portaying that the era in which the film is set (1930's) tells of the poor condition 'New York' was in after prohabition was legalised. Another film this used in the film "The Deer Hunter". It could also represent the action that takes place within the next few shots. Both of these non-diagetic sounds connote a form of anxiety.

There is a shot of 'Eve' through a close-up of a glass chandelier, from this shot the audience are able to tell that there is an eerie feeling to the room, this creates a sense of tension.

Eve's face is seen for the first time from the bright light of the lampshade, the shot of her is a close-up showing her facial features and expressions. The Exteme close-up of Eve's face is utilised to involve the audience.


The shocking, high angle tilt image of the bed, connotes a symbol of death, it also is used for the theme of murder.After view this shot the audience are able to gain an idea of what may be about to occur.After this shot there is a scrolling shot following 3 policemen into the room. One of the men is seen with a gun, all policemen are dressed rather typically of the era,they look as though they could be part of some form of mafia or secret police.
The sound of the click of the gun is heard whilst the camera focuses on 'Eve'. A close-up of the gun is then seen this shows that the policemen with the weapon is more dominant than the female character.'Eve' is then shot.
Her dead body lays on the bed. There is a close-up of 'Eve's' face. The policemen stand behind the dead body, this connotes stength and dominance.

Cuts to Scene 2

To start off with the audience are thrown into the action, viewing a extreme close up from over the shoulder of one of the policemen. What's happening is that a man is being beaten up whilst being hung from a nuse.
The audience don't know who is character is, but this established later on in the film. This violence is typical of what would be seen in a thriller film.

Perfume advert-Ghost(Deep Night)

Perfume advert-Ghost(Deep Night)
Originally uploaded by Craig-CNS Media

Please click on image to view notes

Key Terms

Mise En Scene-Everything in the picture seen by the audience EG: -Costume, lighting, props.

Connotation-Metaphorical/Symbolic meaning of something.

Denotation-What something is.

1st entry

I'm Craig Vargerson and this my blog all my work will be on.this features all Media AS level work at CNS.


The purpose of the blog i've created is so i can put all completed work pieces into it