A Review written about the certificate given for This is England

An 18 for This is England? This is an outrage
My new film has been landed with a certificate which will mean those who need to see it most will not be able to.

Personal film... This is England
It's almost two years since we started shooting This is England and at last the film is nearly out, hitting cinemas here this weekend. I suppose it's my most personal film to date as the main character, Shaun Fields is loosely based upon me at a time in my childhood.
Shaun is a 12 year-old growing up in Thatcher's England when Rubik's Cubes, Doc Martens and political upheaval were all the rage. Shaun gets involved with a local skinhead gang after his father dies in the Falklands war and This is England tells of the repercussions that follow.
Everything has been going brilliantly. Last autumn the film won the special jury prize at the Rome Film Festival and best film at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs), beating BAFTA winner The Queen. Thomas Turgoose, who plays Shaun, won the best newcomer award at the BIFAs too. We've had some amazing press and great reviews and everything was looking really positive.
Then, earlier this year, we heard that the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) had decided to give the film an 18 certificate for its use of "realistic violence and racist language". This means that the film is now unavailable to the audience it will benefit the most.
It's like I've somehow overachieved. By having one piece of violence and one piece of really acute verbal violence I've managed to get an 18 certificate, whereas someone else can slay thousands of people in a single film and that's OK. To be honest I don't understand it because, yes, the film is affecting but I think it's something that someone of 15 can cope with. It's not like it's a film about the 80s that has no value; it's incredibly relevant politically. It's as much about Iraq as it is about the Falklands. It's as much as about England in 2007 as it is about England in 1983.
The good news is that Bristol city council has overturned the BBFC's decision, giving the film a 15 certificate. We're hoping that more councils will follow shortly as there is a lot of support for the movie and incredulity at the BBFC verdict. Whether or not it will be accessible to the audience who need to see it the most remains to be seen.
As for me, I have a new deal with Warp Films, the production company behind This is England and my last film Dead Man's Shoes. My producer Mark Herbert and I have just had a great meeting with Film4 and EM Media about future projects. There are lots in the pipeline and we're all looking forward to getting started on the next one.
The Guardian

Thriller Evaluation

In what ways does your media product use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?
The Mise-en-scene in our thriller was influenced by a variety of films including: miller’s crossing, Football Factory, Adulthood and Kidulthood and Layercake. The urban setting in Adulthood has recognisable locations in the film as it is set in a modern environment; the reason for the setting is to emphasis the feeling of everyday life. Our entire thriller is set in darkness including many of the inside scenes, using street light and faint light bulb to add the effects of mystery and suspense by allowing the audience to see small amounts of detail, leaving them expectation of what is to come. The use of guns and smoking is common in all the thrillers that influenced us in the making of our film. Stairs also play a highly influential role in our thriller which was used very successfully in Kidulthood and Millers crossing, it is used to emphasis the feeling of becoming trapped or trying to escape from something or someone. There were some typical thriller signifiers we used in effect in our film. There is a perfect example of mystery and intrigue which was influenced by Layercake were actor Daniel Craig’s characters name is hidden, known as “XXXX” in the credits, whereas the old man’s name or face is revealed in our opening. The feeling of being trapped is portrayed in our film using the claustrophobic space, when Simon is trapped in the bedroom, this is similar Chinatown with the main character is scared of heights.

The soundtrack used in our film played a highly influential role in creating tension and was selected due to the success of similar soundtracks within that genre, especially in the films Adulthood, Kidulthood and Layer Cake. The music genre in our film we decided to use was Dubstep Electronica genre; this was chosen due to its success in creating tension in some of the influencing thriller’s Layer Cake and Adulthood. Our soundtrack was a contrast of pace between the soundtracks of Adulthood and Layercake this helps us to achieve our aims in creating an opening to our thriller which gradually builds tension as the music’s pace and tone reaches a climax at the end of the film.

The editing of the film was reasonably basic, using simple short cuts, to emphasize the quick pace of the opening sequence; this is achieved by lots of cuts of footage changing the location and character in shot, to attempt to build tension within the audience. This is similar to a scene in particular from Kidulthood where Sam is returning to his home where he finds to find some unexpected guests, as he moves up the stairs, it cuts between him and the people in his house. Camera shots and angles were also a very effective way of putting an emphasis on a particular scene. We tried to use a full range of interesting camera techniques, the most interesting technique we used was positioning the camera to not reveal the identity of the man, and this was adapted from Layercake where you don’t see the Russian hit man Draken. We used some interesting camera techniques, including the shot on the stairs of both characters, shot behind the characters legs. This shot was inspired from a shot in Millers Crossing, when two assassinators. There is a close up of a phone showing the phone call warning from Jitmal failed to reach Simon, this idea was used to put fear into his friends waiting outside.


How does your media product represent particular social groups?
There are four main characters in our thriller and they all feature in the opening of our film. The entire cast is male, which shows complete domination of the male sex in our film, with a femme fatale not even being featured, this suited our film though as it is based around predominantly young male gangs roaming the streets. The cast are predominantly white, however Jitmal a member of the gang is mixed race, and this helps show that there is little if no racism between the gang. There are three young male gang members in the opening sequence each of similar age around their late teens. There social class of the group is lower class, come from a quite a poor upbringing, financially and the way they were treated by their parents, this has a direct effect to why they may be drawn to crime. Brought up on a council estate where they are around many people similar to them, so they will be influenced by the friends they make and the lack of responsibility and guidance given towards them. This fits the stereotype for young adults from this social group and the actions of crime using guns is an example giving evidence for this stereotype. The classy gangster in the film, whose age, is around late 30’s, early 40’s, is of slightly higher class than the young gang, but still counted as lower class as his wealth displayed through big house and BMW is believed and stereotypically gained through illegal means an example being drug dealing.


What kind of media institution might distribute your media product and why?
The thriller film we made I believe would attract a reasonably large audience so would be appropriate to distribute it in mainstream cinemas across the UK. I believe it would be classed as a mainstream thriller due to the success of other British films which vastly influenced our thriller including Kidulthood and Adulthood. I would use an English distribution company for the distribution of the film in the UK; Pathe Pictures International is an example of a company I could use, known for its distribution of films such as Adulthood, which is a similar film to ours so they will have experience working with this genre. The next distribution method I would be looking at for our film would be releasing it on DVD and making it available to watch on the internet, focusing primarily on the UK as our film would not be mainstream enough to be successful in the US. The internet is used on a worldwide basis with a huge audience, making it one of the best methods for attracting an audience.


Who would be the audience for your media product?
The audience for our film would be a group between the ages of 15-25, because of the Certificate I believe our thriller would receive would be 15 due to use of violence and explicit content, these are the standards set by the BBFC. I believe that males will be more attracted to the film due to the complete dominance of male actors in our thriller; also i believe the audience will be similar to the audience of Kidulthood and Adulthood with 2031 out of 2313 viewers on IMDB being male and 1545 of them being between the ages of 18-29. The reason for the decision on the target audience of the film is based on research carried out around the thriller, investigating specifically what the selected target audience for our thriller views and opinions about thrillers, media platforms and the British film industry. The real-life scenario in our film will give any audience especially those of similar age to the gang, something to relate to and may find its gritty realism an attractive trait of our film. Also the subgenre of this Thriller is action thriller with the use of Guns, fight scenes, murder, drug abuse etc. These are all stereotypically linked to teenage boys and especially feature around gang culture, this will attract young male adults to our thriller as it interests them and films with similar traits have attracted large young male audiences.


How did you attract/address your audience?
The audience in the thriller was attracted and addressed through a variety of different ways using the mise-en-scene, characters, narrative and plot. The main way the target audience was attracted through being able to relate to the issues the charcters have to experience throughout the film and the actions taken to deal with them. The gang get caught up in a robbery in particular the main character Simon, his fear and anxiety through the scenes keep the audience hooked and anticipating what the fate of his actions will result in. The use of guns will attract the audience to our film as they are a signal of power; in that guns can potentially kill someone will intrigue the audience to how the plot will unfold and the way in which these dangerous weapons will be used to shape the storyline. The fact that the members of the gang are of similar age to the target audience will attract them as they will be able to relate to them, for example the style of clothes they wear. The setting of the film in urban streets, similar to area where the viewers may live, can relate to the area. The loyalty and betrayal featured between the gang members, showing the close-knit relationship of the gang, however there is the opposite feeling in the way the gang leave Simon trapped in the house, the viewers can relate to friends and loyalty with them, if not the crime side of the plot. The final gun shot at the end of the opening, will leave the audience hooked and the quick pace editing keeps the audience waiting in anticipation.


What have you learnt about technologies from the process of constructing this product?
Over the course of creating our thriller we were introduced to a variety of different media technologies and my knowledge of camera work and using editing software has vastly improved. I only got a chance to do camera work on a practice for my preliminary task, as I was willing to perform as an actor in both the preliminary task and the thriller opening itself, although I do believe I still have reasonably good knowledge of the camera and its software. By the end of our second run at filming our groups’ camera and editing skills, were at a much higher level than our attempts first time round, this enabled us to create a better quality of film using experience we had gained throughout the process. The editing process was the hardest part of the media construction of our film and at first we struggled with getting the footage at the right speed and linking the different parts after cutting it down. After the first difficult stage, we began to get to grips with the software and it was interesting linking up the sequence of various shots. Another hard part of this stage was linking the cut scenes, to keep the narrative readable and also changing the volume of soundtrack to be able to hear the dialogue and build tension within the film itself.


Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to the full product?
How were prelim and thiller tasks different/ harder/ more challenging? Skills/ understanding/ knowledge
Preliminary task was the first opportunity we had to practice filming and using the various types of equipment, we based the tasks we each did on what we would most likely be doing in the construction of our thriller opening. The tasks we got when creating our thriller are as follows: I did acting, writing (script), and helped with some editing, Roxy took control of filming and editing and Caroline did planning and editing. The preliminary task also taught us how to perform all the necessaries to then go on to create our thriller film, with experience we had gained. We had to set up a YouTube account to export our file to get feedback and allow an audience to see both our Preliminary task and more importantly our Thriller. There were two specific filming rules we learnt in the preliminary task that were vitally important we understood at this stage so we could go on to use them successfully in our thriller, these were the rule of thirds, the 180 degrees rule and reverse shot We had to borrow the filming equipment from school, this involved a process of signing the equipment in and out at the library, this was in fact a good learning curb as it improved our punctuality by making sure we returned equipment at the right time and date. The editing was the final process we went through, the first part of editing was cutting down the large amount of footage we had filmed, this involved cutting out unneeded parts and sequencing what we had left to make sure the film flowed smoothly and looked professional. We also got better at using the premiere elements software so when it came to filming our film we were more skilful, this involved using tools, timelines, cutting (editing) and rendering to prevent the recurring the blurry and jumpy parts.

Audience feedback
We gave a variety of evaluation sheets out to peers in my media group and a couple to our media teachers and asked them to evaluate our film, in a number of categories.
Holding the shot steady were the first category and the average score we achieved came out at 8.3 out of 10 with some of the comments being: Very good camera work in last shot, variety of steady shots and finally shakey in parts.
Framing shots and including what to include in shot we scored an average of 7.9/10 and some of the comments being: Great shots of guys in the sunset and the important points were shown, some stuff could have been left out.
Using a Variety of shot distances we scored an average of 7.6/10 an the comments from our audience were: -, yes, I think there was quite a few, could use more variety, not much variety (long and ECU), all similar distances.
Shooting material that is appropriate to the opening of a thriller film was an important catergory to do well in and we scored 8 out of 10 with one member of our audience giving us a 10, some of the feedback comments included: Good signifiers, Nice dark shots but some in night and daylight .
Selecting mise-en-scene to create particular effects was a category we didn't score as well in but there was still some high scores achieved of 10 and 9 with the average being 6.5. a few of comments from audience feedback included: Good realistic mise-en-scene, Chiaroscuro lighting and too dark to see all the detail at times.
Editing so that the meaning is clear to the viewer links well with shooting appropriate material and one helps to reflect upon the other and we averaged a score of 8/10 with feedback comments including: Good quick editing, very clear what was going on.
Using sound with images and editing sound effectively we scored an average of 8.1o out 10 we some of the audience feedback including: LOVED the music and Some actions went very well with music but gun shot not very realistic.
Any other points?(representational issues, effectiveness of characters, did the opening hook you?) we scored an average of 8.5 with some audience feedback comments being: good hook and good acting and could have been clearer who the male protagonist was.

Method 4- This is England Research

Case Study: This is England (2006) Shane Meadows

Certification: UK:18, Australia: 15, Ireland:18, USA: Unrated, Sweden:11, Finland:K-15, France: U, Germany:12, Netherlands:16.
Reasons for certification: Racism, Strong Language, Strong violence, extreme political views, mild sexual scenes and drugs/ alcohol content.
Locations: Grimsby, Lincolnshire, England, UK (ending credits) - Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England, UK- RAF Newton, Nottinghamshire, England, UK (abandoned Houses).


Company Credits:
Ÿ Big Arty Productions
Ÿ EM Media
Ÿ Film4
Ÿ Optimum Releasing
Ÿ Screen Yorkshire
Ÿ UK Film Council
Ÿ Warp Films.

Warp films is another project of Warp Records. It was set up in 1999, is based in Sheffield and has 3 full-time staff; including Shane Meadows.“Warp Films is an independent film production company which aims to mirror the ethos of its partner music label Warp Records. By keeping the creative process at the core of our approach to filmmaking, Warp Films aims to create fresh and innovative feature length and short films to be viewed by a wide audience. Our current priorities are nurturing and developing existing talent, as well as discovering new exciting filmmakers.”

The UK Film Council (UKFC) was set up in 2000 by the Labour Government as a Non-Departmental Public Body to develop and promote the film industry in the UK. It is constituted as a private company limited by guarantee governed by a board of 15 directors and is funded through sources including The National Lottery. John Woodward is the Chief Executive of the UK Film Council.
In its own words, the aim of UKFC is: To stimulate a competitive, successful and vibrant UK film industry and culture, and to promote the widest possible enjoyment and understanding of cinema throughout the nations and regions of the UK.
Film 4 productions are owned by channel 4 and create and show films which are displayed for audiences worldwide predominately in the UK. A large majority of the films they create are British.



Distribution:
This is England was distributed in the UK, by the British company Optimum Releasing (in 2006).
In the US, the film was distributed by IFC Films. An American film distribution company based in New York and owned by Rainbow Media. It distributes independent films and documentaries.The other Distributors were:
Madman Entertainment - Australia,
NonStop Entertainment - Sweden,
Sandrew Metronome Distribution - Finland.



Reviews:
Humor and an easy intimacy with actors have always been British director Shane Meadows’s hallmarks. Even as his defiantly regional material has threatened to clam up with sentiment (sometimes as thick as the Midlands accents), he sees it through to an appealing vulnerability, especially in his tough guys; his last feature, 2004’s revenger Dead Man’s Shoes, sharpened the storytelling to a stoic minimum. He will one day make an essential film, perhaps about a boxer.
If his latest, This Is England, doesn’t quite elevate Meadows to the next level, it still delivers everything we’ve grown accustomed to. Most notable are the excellent, unshowy performances, especially from young Thomas Turgoose as Shaun, an early-’80s teen looking for surrogate love—Daddy’s fallen in the Falklands—and finding it in two competing skinheads, one of them a foot soldier in the ugly National Front. (Meadows cops to an autobiographical impulse.) Against Nottingham’s gray, silty skies, we see Shaun grow into a pugnacious youngster, becoming vicious against his own better judgment.
Anyone who’s gone to the Walter Reade lately and tasted its Woodfall series—filled to bursting with angry young Brits swaddled in 1960s angst—will recognize such struggles as a hallowed tradition of U.K. cinema. Meadows is the real deal, and even though he lays on his period nostalgia a little too thick (clips of Duran Duran, Princess Diana and KITT, the talking car?), he knows to ground the proceedings in primo ska music: lilting, propulsive, a hair’s breadth from a sucker punch.
Author: Joshua Rothkopf (External USA Reviewer)
Time Out New York Issue 617: July 26–August 1, 2007




It's hard to describe Shane Meadows' latest film without making it appear a great deal less interesting than it actually is. It's a semi-autobiographical tale of a young boy adopted by a gang of skinheads in a grey seaside town. And on that basis, This Is England sounds, in short, like typical grimesville British filmmaking - concrete, rain and misery. This couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, the film is fizzing with energy and humour, powered by brilliantly engaging performances.
Chief among these is newcomer Thomas Turgoose as Sean, a put-upon 12-year old who finds unexpected friendship with a group of local skinheads led by the sweet natured Woody (Joseph Gilgun, another stand-out performance). These skins are a far cry from the image of racist thuggery that the movement became known for in the 80s. It's all about the music, and of course the clothes - although Sean is too small for Doc Marten boots, he still gets the haircut, the plaid shirt and the braces. For a while, everything is sweet in Sean's world. He even shares his first kiss with a Boy George lookalike with the charming name of Smell.
"A FUNNY AND DEEPLY MOVING PORTRAIT"
But soon, conflict arrives in the form of Combo (Stephen Graham, also superb), an old mate of the gang whose time in prison has left him with a strong sympathy for the National Front. Combo's racist agenda splits the gang and Sean, tragically, finds himself turning to Combo as a substitute for the father he lost in the Falklands. Meadows is an exhilarating filmmaker and This Is England is his best film to date - an honest, emotional, funny and deeply moving portrait of growing up. Don't miss it.
Reviewed by Paul Adrent (British Reviewer) BBC - 27 April 2007



User comments:
Best film of the Berlin Film Festival 2007, 14 February 2007Author: dePaoli from Berlin, Germany
I just saw "This Is England" at the Berlin Film Festival where it was screened in the section "Generation 14P". This section is an extension of the former "Kinderfilmfest" for teenagers between 14 and 18 - dealing with more mature issues.
I had no clue about it, just that it would be about skinheads in England and that it takes place in the 80s. I wasn't expecting much, hoping for something like a British version of "American History X" - I got a lot more.When I left the theater I was absolutely stunned! Cast and script were outstanding. I loved the rough editing and grainy camera style that made the movie look a real 80s flick! And last but not least: the soundtrack is a blast! And coming from a director who used to be part of the real scene, it might be the most authentic picture about skinheads ever made.Although it didn't get as much attention as the Hollywood films that had their premiere at the Berlinale Palast, it's a lot stronger than almost all the films in competition.I hope it will make its way the movies and not end up as a direct-to-video-flick... 10/10

This is England - The very best British cinema has to offer., 5 November 2006 Author: just_hamish from United Kingdom
Fellow Midlander Shane Meadows has produced not only his finest work to date but one of the very best films to come out of Britain that I have ever had the pleasure of viewing. Just as the effectively chilling, bloody (yet arguably flawed) "Dead Man's Shoes" showcased a passionate return to low budget, focused film making, "This Is England" sees him perfect his technique. It is a seemingly effortless achievement that matches a warm, humorous portrayal of a young lad growing up with his experience of the cold brutality that came with the 80s skinhead culture. The way in which Shane blends these two aspects together without compromising on either is most impressive.Delivering a surprising, enchanting performance in the lead role as Shaun, Thomas Turgoose portrays a youngster of incredible warmth and charisma. He is befriended by a relatively harmless gang skirting with the skinhead culture rife at the time. His strength of character in the face of the adversity life throws his way is truly unforgettable, a credit to both Shane as the writer and Thomas as the performer. As Shaun discovers the joy of "belonging" in the gang, the viewer takes a similar journey. Through sublime use of another excellent soundtrack (an ear for music in relation to visuals is one of Shane's most loved and respected trademarks) the joy of youth and life literally springs from the screen.What is particularly successful is Shane's restraint where it comes to grounding the film in reality. It would have been all too easy to escalate these events above and beyond the core group of characters, creating a power struggle on a much bigger, thrill friendly scale. Instead the film remains focused and convincing, not once do you doubt the likelihood of events. The canvas may be smaller but emotionally "This Is England" resonates more powerfully than ever before, taking the harsh, greys of a story like "Dead Man's Shoes" and enlightening it with a central character full of warmth and honesty. In the end this serves to engage the viewer on a much greater level.It is in comedy that "This Is England" truly surprises, not the usual splash of dark humour but humour of much broader appeal. Thomas' performance brings the sharp dialogue to life with a wonderful physical range, the first half the film is crammed with delightful comic moments that really draw you in to the character, making future events all the more affecting. Much is made of Shaun's romance with a much older girl, the scenes are tear-jerking in their tender, wonderfully observed realism. There is much in the film that will trigger moments of recognition in the viewer, especially (but not exclusively) those who were young in the 80s.As big time skinhead Combo (the other stand out performance of the piece from Scouser Stephen Graham) comes out of jail the film takes a U-Turn, presenting a troubling, unrestrained view on racism through extreme nationalism, getting deep under the skin to question the source and nature of such hatred. It is in this that we realise this is a study of human nature as Shaun is presented with more extreme acts that drive him to question the moral behind such irrational prejudices.Book ending the film is real news footage of the political climate surrounding the events depicted, prominent among which is Maggie Thatcher's invasion of the Falklands (a conflict that's consequences prove key to the central narrative) When asked "Will we ever talk to the Argentines again?" on a radio interview Thatcher purrs "No… I don't think so" The parallels are fitting and thoroughly engaging. Inspired, shaped and formed by Shane's own childhood, "This Is England" is ultimately an honest, confident piece of film making right from the heart. The film is a wonderful example of what British cinema has to offer the world. The film may be grounded in period authenticity, but the narrative is ultimately applicable to all of us, having experienced the inescapable process of growing up. Shaun's quality shines through, his experienced may be unique but the messages conveyed are most certainly universal.

Just seen it at the 50th BFI festival, 2 November 2006Author: stevegogger from Hampshire,United Kingdom
Congratulations to Shane Meadows for capturing the sights, sounds and smells of the 1980's. It was spellbinding to watch the audience reaction as the set up of the film had its share of laughs for the youthful abandonment and micky taking that made up being a teenager during these times. Switching gear, trouble arrives like a boot to the face, in the shape of Combo. Releasd from prison and seeped in nationalist rhetoric. I found the film made an important distinction between the clans of traditional and neo-nazi skinheads. A point that has been long overdue in film. Focusing on a northern seaside town the setting could be anywhere in the UK, such is the power of the mirror of gang life. a great soundtrack and poignant dialogue when reflecting on the various characters lot...good luck at the awards!


Awards:
Won:
BAFTA Awards 2008- Best British Film, British Independent Film Awards 2006- Best British Independent film and most promising newcomer (Thomas Turgoose), Mons International Festival of love films 2008- Best European Film, Young European Jury award, Newport International Film Festival 2007- Best director Award.
Nominated:
BAFTA Awards 2008, Bangkok International Film Festival 2007, British Independent film awards 2006, Empire Awards 2008, Flanders International Film Festival 2007, London Critics Circle Film awards.


Other Films directed by Shane meadows:
Somers Town (2008) This Is England (2006) The Stairwell (2005) Northern Soul (2004) Dead Man's Shoes (2004) Once Upon a Time in the Midlands (2002) A Room for Romeo Brass (1999) 24 7: Twenty Four Seven (1997) Small Time (1996) Where's the Money, Ronnie? (1996)

Method 5- Warp films

Method 5: Warp Films Research

Warp films was 1 of 7 production companies which invested funds in the creation of Shane Meadows film “This is England”. Warp Films is a British production company which originally started in 2002 as a side project of Warp records, but over the last five years has become one of the leading producers of British films and has received its just reward in numerous awards including 3 BAFTAS.

Warp X is a brand new venture in the British film industry with a sustainable digital studio that is driven by creative talent and a dynamic digital business that rewards everyone involved in the films. Warp x is a sister company of warp films, intending to build on Warp Film’s reputation for combining creative originality with commercial success, with releases like Shane Meadows’ ‘This Is England’ and ‘Dead Mans Shoes’, Chris Cunningham’s ‘Rubber Johnny’ and Chris Morris’ ‘My Wrongs 8245-8249 and 117’. “My Wrongs 8245-8249 and 117” was Warp’s first short film and was directed by Chris Morris. It won the BAFTA in 2003 and for its television premiere on Channel 4, more than one million viewers tuned in to watch it. Warp sold an astounding 22,000 DVDs of My Wrongs and was the first DVD single in the UK market.

Working along side with the UK film council and film 4 and our other key financial backers; EM Media and Screen Yorkshire, Warp films has been a major influence on the British film industry, funding the production of many films. Since 2002, Warp Films have released 6 films:

My Wrongs 8245-8249 and 117, directed by Chris Morris (2003)
Dead Man’s Shoes, directed by Shane Meadows (2004)
Rubber Johnny, directed by Chris Cunningham (2005)
Scummy Man (Arctic Moneys short film/music video)
This Is England, directed by Shane Meadows (2006)
Dog Altogether, directed by Paddy Considine (2007)
Warp films also funded “The Englishman” (2007 funding) directed by Ian Seller, released in 2008.

All of these films are being managed and produced by Warp X for the Low Budget Feature Film Scheme set up by UK Film Council’s New Cinema Fund and Film4 to revitalise the low-budget sector of the British film industry. Optimum Releasing are closely involved in the development process, and will distribute the films theatrically and on DVD in the UK. Channel 4 will take UK television rights.

Chris Cunningham is a established director of films within the country. Cunningham also directed the music video for ‘Afrika shox’ by leftfield. The music video deals with the theme of racism, following a black man walk through New York City as a helpless man. When he reaches out for help from the community, of mostly white males, the cry for help is ignored, casting the black man aside as though he was invisible. As this happens, each time the black man starts to shatter. The shattering of his limbs is a metaphor for how the community makes the man feel. The only person that acknowledges the shattered man is another black man, who then offers him help, only then to enter back into the society and be entirely shattered by the white population. The theme of racism is also dealt with in Shane Meadows film ‘This is England’ both films have been made to exploit the depth of racism within society. Within both of the productions, a sense of prejudice against the lower classes is present. In Afrika shox, it is ambiguous about the real reason for the male being ignored. The main character is also homeless, with ripped clothes and bare feet. In this is England, the cast are all from a lower working class. We see the struggle in society from their points of view, whereas in Afrika shox, the point of view is an outsider, watching the prejudice and racism take place.

Both of the productions are portraying the issues in negative ways. Highlighting them as problems in society nowadays aswell as in the past. The film and music video were created to have an impact on the audience and allow them to make connections to the video or film. Therefore the problems have been chosen to be portrayed as they are still important in our society.

Method 2- Questionnaire

1. What Gender are you? Male Female
2. What age group do you fall into? under 14 15-18 19-25 26-40 40-55 56+
3. On a scale of 1 to 5, how much do enjoy watching films? 1 2 3 4 5
4. What film genres do you like? Action Thriller Comedy Sci-fi Adventure Musical Horror Documentary Rom-Com
5. What us your favourite film genre from above? Genre:..........
6. How often do you watch films in a typical week? 0-1 times 2-3 4-5 5+
7. What attracts you to watch a film? Actor/Actress Director Hear-say Advertising Reviews Other(s):...........
8. What thrillers have you watched? Sin City No Country for Old Men Layer Cake Essex Boys Vertigo Chinatown Rock'n'Rolla Panic Room V for Vendetta The Godfather (trilogy) Other(S):..............
9. What Thriller From Above? Thriller:......................
10. How often do you watch thrillers in a typical Week? 0-1 times 2-3 4-5 5+
11. What thriller signifiers do you enjoy having in thrillers? Plot Twists Mystery Betrayal Urban Areas Femme-Fatal tension Building Jazz Music Internal Monologues good vs. Evil Other(s):...........
12. On a scale of 1 to 5, how much do you like British films? 1 2 3 4 5
13. What british films have you watched ? Rock'n' Rolla Lock Stock 'n' Two Smoking Barrels Snatch Football Factory Essex Boys Green Street Rise of the Footsoldier This is England The full Monty Other:..............
14. What is your favourite type of film from the list below? American Mainstream Hollywood British Foreign
15. The cinema is most full of mainstream hollywood films; this can prevent as many British films from reaching the cinema. Would you liketo see more British films in our cinemas ? Yes No Not sure

Method 2- Questionniare Analysis

James Bond- Casino Royale Madagascar chase scene

Casino Royale
Chase scene: Madagascar

Within the scene, the mise-en-scene, camera work and soundtrack all work together to create a tense and dramatic scene that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
The chase scene is opened effectively with an establishing shot of the surrounding area, allowing the audience to be introduced to the scene where the action is about to take place. The ambient sound of the crowd, supplies the sound for the scene, creating a claustrophobic and disorientation feeling for the audience. As they try to get to grips with the area. Straight away the camera is placed in the middle of the crowd, increasing the feeling of confusion, the camera flashes quickly between shots, explaining to the audience what is happening within the scene. The frantic hands of the people in the crowd create a lot of movement, making it hard to focus on them as individuals. This works well when we are introduced to a new character as all of the extras in the scene are constantly moving. The new character is stiller in movement, allowing the audience to be attracted to him within the crowd. The camera focuses on him, capturing his movements using a range of close ups and medium shots. The focus then changes from the new character to an agent that is also standing in the crowd. With the introduction of the new character, dialogue is used to explain to the audience that the agent is watching the new character. A long shot of Bond is then used to explain who the agent is talking to. As the dialogue from the agent to Bond becomes more tense, the shots flash between close ups of bond and of the agent to show their reactions. When the new character spots the agent, the reactions are captured as point of view shots, allowing the audience to be put in their situation of confrontation. Confrontation creates tension for the audience and gets them involved within the scene, allowing them to be psychologically attached to the scene. As the chase starts, the sudden movement of the new character as he turns to run from the agent is synchronised with a strong drum beat, which has a quick quieter beat that sets the pace of the chase, connecting with the sound of a heartbeat. Whilst the action is still within the crowd the sound of the fear and confusion of the extras in the scene, creates tension.

A long shot of Bond is used to show him overlooking the agent chase the new character. When the agent fails to chase, bond is introduced to the chase. A jungle rhythm is dramatically synchronised with Bonds quick movement into the scene. And with this movement it is clear that the chase has become serious. The beat becomes quicker and like the quick footsteps of the characters. Throughout the chase, the camera tracks the two characters; running along side them and from Aerial shots. The aerial shots establish the distance between the two characters. The point of view of the camera switches between bond and the new character, the audience are involved with Bond’s thoughts when he is deciding what to do next. A long shot of the fork lift is shown and then the camera shows Bond’s response. The audience is then shown a panning point of view shot from the new character’s point of view when looking for Bond. The quick movement of the camera shows the characters anticipation of Bond’s whereabouts. Together the quick camera work and the ever changing soundtrack, controls the pace of the scene to peak at certain points within the scene.

The mise-en-scene within the scene is very important when setting the scene the audience needs to be able to recognise the culture and aspects of the area. The opening scene is in an LEDC area of Madagascar. This is recognisable as a Less Economically Developed Country by the casual and simple clothing worn by the extras in the scene. The undeveloped roads and housing in the area and the sandy and neutral colours of the surrounding. Bond and his co agent are dresses in brighter colours, yet still those of which would be worn in the climate there in. The jungle is used as a natural and safer area within the scene yet a more chaotic and mysterious area, which is soon left to enter a dangerous large building site.
The mise-en-scene for the building site is a dramatic change from the town scenery. With stronger and sharper edges increasing the danger of the scene. The height of the building frames, increases the danger and tension for the characters, making the audience anticipate an accident. As the scene moves on, the height of the buildings increases, so does the danger of the scenes. As it becomes higher, the mise en scene becomes less, with vast open spaces taking the place of dangerous machinery and the building site. Special effects are used within the building site, introducing fire and explosions and gunshots to the chase. Increasing the intensity of the chase. Natural lighting is used throughout the scene with the sun beaming down on the set, creating a hot and intense set for a chase. The strength of the sun also adds to the mise en scene, showing that Bond is in a strange and unfamiliar country.

The soundtrack to the film works with the camera shots to synchronise actions of the characters and important situations in the scene with sound. The sound is used to increase the tension for the audience and connect to their heartbeat. As the tension starts to grow with the action, the soundtrack becomes more alive, becoming faster and louder in the scene. The strings used in the music play the bond tune, which is well recognised by the audience. The beat of the music also quickens, causing the heartbeat of the audience to also quicken. When Bond jumps from the crane, the music suddenly stops. The stopping of the music causes the audience to also stop, and maybe hold their breath because of the sudden intensity and quietness of the shot.

Thriller Synopsis

Synopsis:

Name:The Wrong Move

Genre: Gangster/Thriller.

Blurb:Simon is 15. He got in with the wrong crowd and spends his life getting in trouble and running from it. Until one night, when they step it up a notch, and decide to rob a house. This time, Simon will discover that maybe running from the scene can prove worse than staying put.

Introduction:
Young boy robbing an old man’s house, old man returns home and catches him hiding under the bed. The boy’s friends who were outside have run off in fear of police getting involved.Beginning of movie:Boy has gone missing; police get involved as “missing persons” investigation. Crew members are told by the leader to lie about where they were, say that they weren’t near the old man’s house. Crew member returns to the house to watch the old guy and cover up their tracks of being there. Another crew member returns to the police to tell them what happened, police then question the old man, who claims the boy ran out of the house before he could catch him. The next day the boy turns up dead, and the old man and the leading crew member are arrested.

Middle of movie (4 Points of view):
Boys view: stealing, hiding under the bed, old man catches him, he throws the stuff back at him that he was stealing and runs out the house to walk home. Shadow grabs him and starts beating him, this is in a run down place near a river. Shadow then hides the body.
Polices view: gets a ring from parents, talk to people at the school, getting nowhere with the investigation. Question the old man and are suspicious of crew member as they find out he told everyone to lie about them being there. Arrest both.
Old mans view: returns home from pub to find boy in his house, tries to catch him and yell but boy runs out. He is stirred and starts drinking and falls asleep. Next day Police are asking him about the boy and how the boy is missing. He’s surprised. Answers and tells them what had happened and lets them search the house. He is rude because they suspect him. He gets arrested and is not happy.
Crew leader’s view: Been drinking, goes out to make boy rob a house. Drunk. They run when man returns, he stays and watches as a few minutes later the boy runs out. Angry. Follows boy home, when at river he grabs him and beats him yelling how stupid he is and he will get them caught. When the boy is unresponsive he panics and hides the body, swearing and shaking. Returns home, washes his hands and the next day tells his crew to lie about where they were. When police find out where they were he panics more, and when he is arrested he tries to cover it by swearing at the police.

End of the movie:Police find the weapon that killed the boy and fingerprint it. They tell both man and crew leader what they are doing to shake them. Old man is released and leader is convicted as his prints are found all over the weapon. Movie ends with prison door banging shut and seeing the lad through the letterbox opening, which is also shut. He had his head in his hands.

Perfume analysis

Ralph Lauren Polo Black- I will be analysing this perfume advert by Ralph Lauren.
It is an advert for a males cologne and being called Polo Black it has a very simple theme, with predominately black colour in the background and foreground. This advert is simple but elegant and by not over complicating the advert with colour and other props leaves it looking classy and sophisticated. The background really highlights the flawless look of the male model in this piece showing perfect skin complexion and the his professional business looking attire. Using a simple pin stripe you can make a black suit stand out against the black backdrop with out losing the simple colour scheme in this advert. The stance the model has is very laid back and relaxed and the way her looks out of the picture into the audiences eyes will draw them and attract them to this advert. There is also an overwhelming sense of mystery with this advert, this is brought across by the dark black colour in the advert.

I believe the audience this advert is targeting is the B category of the demographic classification which includes: Intermediate managerial, administrative or professional middle class. In this demographic there are 21.9% of all UK adults (15+) of which for this advert in particular applies to men which is slightly higher percentage of 23.1%. The aspiration model is a similar way of classifying the population, except it focuses on there personal aspiration rather than there class. For this advert i believe the group it will appeal to is Aspirers and social climbers , this groups motivation is status and tend to purchase high-fashion expensive goods which help to give them higher status image. This group have been targeted by Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Dolce and Gabbana, and Armarni.

Conventions of Thrillers

Crime and corruption-

The dark Knight is a prime example of crime and corruption in a film. Throughout the whole film Batman is fighting crime, attempting to take down the Crime leaders of gotham. He works in close contact with the local law enforcements of Gotham and is his own vigilante which are illegal. There are many examples in the film of crime in the Joker and other small time criminals and corruption with the Joker terrorising society therefore affecting society and in a few cases causing normal people to take irrational dangerous actions.

Mystery-

Pan's Labryinth is an extremely mysterious film and from votes of IMDB it got 14th place on the Mystery Genre list. It has many many examples of mystery with nearly the whole film being based around the idea of a small girls(Ofelia's) imagination taking her away from her normal war filled life. The paleman is a character from the film and is one of the many wonderful creatures although it is an evil, dark one created by Ofelia's immagination.

Enclosed Spaces-

Panic Room is a film which main feature is an enclosed space. The basic principle is that Meg Alkman and her daughter Sarah are trapped within the panic room in there own house, as ther house is being burgled. The majority of the film revolves around the enclosed space of the Panic Room and also gives an overwhelming sense of claustrophobia.

Vast Open Spaces- No Country of Old men is a good example of a
thriller that uses vast open spaces. In many parts of the film long shots across a desert land scape are used, in particular one scene when Llewelyn comes across a bloody exchange between to gangs when hunting. The effect open spaces gives in this film are to illustrate the easiness for crime to take place and how difficult an area it is for authorities to enforce.

Thriller Signifiers

Analysing Film-Thriller Signifiers

Plot and Narrative

Mystery and intrigue
Spiralling narrative
A twisting and turning narrative
Narrated by male protagonist

Tone and atmosphere

A sinister of threatening atmosphere
Sexual
Sleaze
Claustrophobia

Mise-en-scene

Bleak settings
Urban
Rain lashed streets
Shadows
Night
Slatted blinds
Slanting Light
Staircases
Enclosed spaces
Chiaroscuro lighting

Characters

Femme fatales
Hardboiled detectives
Flawed heroes
Male protagonist
Women as sex objects
Police

Themes

Corruption
Mystery
Deceit
Sexuality
Women’s sexuality as dangerous and destructive
Moral ambiguity

Cinematography

Tilted camera angles
Use of vanishing points
High angle and low angle shots

Thriller Cast

The cast starring in our thriller are: CHARACTER'S NAME / ACTORS:

Simon --Ben Jones

Reason: We experienced a problem with our casting, someone dropped out at the last minute so we asked Ben to play Simon. He had the suitable look for the role so therefore we were pleased with our choice. He has an innocent face which Simon needs, as he was initially a good, hard working boy (at school). The way he dresses is influenced by the gang, for instance, whilst shooting our film, he wore a coat which was similar to the coat in the prop list. He was wearing a hat- like the one in the picture- which helps to hide his face, therefore hiding his identity. This is appropriate to the story, as they are going to be committing a crime.

Jitmal -- Mark Wright Premachandra

Reason: Mark had the appearance and attitude to suit the character. At first we did not think he would be able to play the role, so we prepared for Jakob to play both roles, as the older guy wasnt going to show his face. Mark suited the role well as he smokes, has darker skin- which will help appeal the film to a wider audience. Mark wears more brighter colours (red) in the film, as we thought he was appropriately dressed in the scenes he was in. The group of young men are all quite unprofessional so this helps by Mark wearing usual and casual wear.







Older guy -- Jakob Montagu-Shaw

Reason: He's tall (which fits the character profile) and we generally thought he would be a good person for this role as he was willing to be in the film- acting and it was a good chance for him to mulit-task. The outfit which we thought of the man wearing was mostly to hide away any thing was most identfiable, for example, his face. We didn't give any information for the description for this character because it gave the character even more mystery- which we wanted to make clear. The questions created by this decision helps add to the sense of the film introduction being a thriller, as mystery is one of the main signifiers in thrillers. Even more, as the character is wearing dark clothes (hiding his identity), these adds to the mysterious.

Thriller location

The setting of our thriller needed to appropriate for the look of a middle-class, middle aged mans' house. The other locations around the house needed to help create mystery this was achieved by using dark secluded areas or busy local streets which created tension between the actors as they have to act more suspicious. The film was filmed in close proximentries as most of the shoting was done in one house.
The two shots above are taken from outside the Mysterious mans house and are used in the planning of Simon's break in to the house with his gang, this is appropriate as stereotypically gangs of teenagers hang around on street corners. Also it used to show the man getting closer to returning to his house.

This shot is of the front of the house, highlighting where the man's bedroom is on the top right with the lights on behind the curtain, this is significant becuase this is where the final scene in the opening takes place.

The door signifiers the man's arrival to the house and the shot from outside looking is straight away draws attention as the light from inside the house, is somewhat welcoming. The hallway also is important in the film as the man walks through it before he is suspicious to the break in to his house. There were a couple of mise-en-scene problems and one in particular we felt was not appropraite for the film and that was the fish mobile, which didnt fit the description of a dangerous Gangsta Man's house. There are also a number of family pictures which we decided we would leave in the shoting of the film becuase it helps to show the contrast between a man who can be a family man and a dangerous man who owns a gun.

Film Process

(Tues. 16th December)Our first attempt at shooting our film went accordingly, however when we had captured it on the editing software and began to watch it back, we noticed a few problems. These included: either the camera or computer had made the film blurry (more in other places) and the camera movements weren't smooth. The film seemed to be jumping making the flow of the film disrupted, which affected the overall piece. Even more, we discussed how "Simon's" outfit didn't look quite right but we rose above this by finding more suitable props for the character to wear. The next shooting of filming was more successful than the last, as we had another chance to re-think and improve our ideas (for shots and so on).

(Late December & Early January)
There was another more serious problem that arouse, a fatal error occured with the main pc we had our thriller filming on the hard drive malfunctioned cuasing us to lose a vast amount of filming. We attempted to retrieve the work we lost, but unfortunately our attempts were unsuccessful, consequently we had to start all of our work from the start, this included filming and editing. Although this put us behind, our teacher gave us an extension to complete our filming editing and the final evalution; this gave us the chance to improve our ideas and learn from our mistakes and hopefully using our experience create a better quality of film.

180 Degree Rule

1. Imagine that the scene you are filming is inside of a large circle. Now imagine that you have drawn a line through the center of the circle, dividing it in half. Always position your camera in the same half of the circle.


2. Shoot reaction shots while keeping the 180-degree rule in mind. Place actors on or near the imaginary line and then shoot reverse angle reaction shots while keeping your camera on the same side of the line. The camera may be positioned almost directly on top of the line--but do not cross the line.


3. Break the 180-degree rule to achieve a specific effect. Rules are made to be broken, but understand the screen dynamics of breaking the 180-degree rule before crossing the line. There are times when breaking the rule may be necessary to achieve your cinematic goal.


4. Recognize that tracking shots and dolly shots, where the camera is in motion during the entire shot, are exceptions to the 180 degree rule because the audience crosses the line (in effect) along with the camera as the shot is made and so they are able to adjust for the change in screen direction.

Continuity Task Storyboard

Shot 1: Shot just outside of the room, where Ben comes into shot. He opens the door and enters the room.

Shot 2: Shot from inside the room, pans around as Ben walks around towards and past the camera, to the desk where Dr. Achmed is sitting.

Shot 3: Over the shoulder shot where we see Ben beginning to explain his problems to Dr. Achmed.

Shot 4: Shot reverse shot- to Dr. Achmed- over the shoulder shot.

Shot 5: When Dr. Achmed doesn't take Ben seriously, the camera zooms every so slightly towards Ben's back and then stays still whilst watching Ben storm angrily out of room.

Prop List Costume

Continuity Task- Script

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."

Script:

Ben opens the door, the shot is from behind.Walks through towards the camera, and over to a desk where DR. Achmed is sitting. He sits down.Over Dr. Achmed’s shoulder shot, viewing Ben as he starts to talk.

BEN: I need your help. It’s my fish.

DR. ACHMED: What’s wrong with it?

BEN: Well I’ve had him for 5 years now, and I’ve grown really attached to him, but he’s ill. I think he is going to die.

Over Ben’s shoulder shot, viewing Dr. Achmed as he suggests a remedy.

DR. ACHMED: I think I can help you with this. We’re making a type of plastic surgery for fish, which allows them to have a fake plastic fin put on.

It returns back to an over the shoulder shot, viewing Ben, as he ponders the idea of a plastic fin.

BEN: A fake plastic fin? It will probably be able to swim a bit easier, and it will probably be able to eat a lot more.

DR. ACHMED: But it may get bullied by the bigger fish.

Returns to over Ben’s shoulder again as Dr. Achmed doesn’t take Ben seriously.

DR. ACHMED: The only problem is, when this fish gets this plastic fin…Dr. Achmed starts laughing.

BEN: Are you laughing at me? At my fish? Because he’ll get a plastic fin? He might die! He was my best friend for five f**king years!Ben angrily stands up and shoves papers off Dr. Achmed’s desk.The camera follows Ben as he starts to walk out, and as he leaves the room, Dr Achmed Speaks:

DR. ACHMED: I’m sorry!Ben slams the door shut, after turning round and yelling:

BEN: F**k you!

Thriller introduction planning: ideas & so on

Initial ideas for film:
Idea 1: Man running down a road, away from something. Empty. Thinks he’s getting chased, but he isn’t actually. Police shows him CCTV of him not being chased, could be a massive conspiracy.
Idea 2: Man in suit walking down a corridor. Bangs into a room and starts searching. Another man in a chair and a woman in another on the other side of the room. After a clear messy search the angry man leaves. The man in the chair says “so where did you hide it?” and the young woman, smoking, just smiles.
Idea 3: Young people robbing an office, running out, one falls over, they all split up and run separate ways. The young one who fell over hides in the shadows. Phone starts vibrating; “Mum” comes up on the screen. A hand slides round the youth’s mouth and he drops the phone. The phone had been answered, lays on the floor with a faint voice calling out to the owner.
Idea 4: FINAL – “Gangsta’s” robbing an old man’s house, but he returns home and they run off except one is left there and gets caught inside the house with the old man, who is a “crazy killer”.

Films that have influenced your group:
1. KiDULTHOOD – Young teenagers, Gangster lifestyle, violence.

2. Layer Cake – Shot types (close up, mid-shot), Watching a particular character (young teen) and following him through the start, Location (urban city landscape), Shots fading out.

3. Sin City – Sound effects (siren’s in the background), Location (urban city landscape), Weather (Raining).

What kind of thriller do you want to make? (Genre and style):

Genre: This film will have a few sub genre’s including; thriller suspense and crime thriller.

Style: The style of the film will be modern “Gangsta”.

What are you trying to achieve? (Themes or ideas you want to explore):

We would like our introduction to capture the audience’s interests and attention, so that it draws them into watching the whole film with interest. We want to explore the “Gangsta” theme along with the innocence of your childhood/teenage years.

What are you trying to achieve?

Themes or ideas you want to explore:We would like our introduction to capture the audience’s interests and attention, so that it draws them into watching the whole film with interest. We want to explore the “Gangsta” theme along with the innocence of your childhood/teenage years, by showing how a young smart innocent teenager can have their life turned around, and become a bad teen/villain, just by the people who he/she hangs out with.

Thriller Storyboard

Story boards for the opening of my groups' thriller...