History vs. Hollywood - Unit 1 Test Flashcards
1
Q
Film as a reflection of society
Learning focus:
A
Visual media such as film and television, have the power to influence people in many different ways.
2
Q
Films have the power to influence society
On a surface level,
A
..films have influenced fashion and catchphrases
Ie. Breakfast at Tiffany’s, 7 Year Itch, Saturday Night Fever, Clueless, Friends
3
Q
Films have the power to influence society
This also means that …
A
film has the power to influence how we view people
Ie. Indigenous Stereotypes
4
Q
Noble Savage
A
In literature and film, the noble savage is an idealized concept of an uncivilized man, who symbolizes the innate goodness of one not exposed to the corrupting influences of civilization.
The Noble Savage was a dominant theme of the 18th and 19th centuries when colonialism was at its height.
5
Q
The Ecological Indian
A
Ecological Indian is a stereotype often applied to Indigenous cultures as being idealistic and living in perfect harmony with nature, having a genetic disposition to mystical ecological knowledge, and feeling remorse for the necessities of life such as hunting due to a spiritual Interconnectivity of all things.
Today, we understand Indigenous knowledge relationships to the land and environment better as being shared through story, tradition, and spiritual practice as traditional ecological knowledge.
6
Q
There are 5 common types of Indigenous Stereotypes in film and television
A
- Beautiful Maidens
- Stoic Indians
- Medicine Men
- Bloodthirsty Warriors
- Wild and on the Rez
7
Q
- Beautiful Maidens
A
ie. Pochahontas
8
Q
Beautiful Maidens
How might the way Indigenous women are depicted in these clips impact the way in which non-Indigenous peoples perceive Indigenous peoples?
A
Non-indigenous people may get the impression that indigenous women freely live outdoors like “savages” and are always dressed that way and appear provocative to European settlers
9
Q
How might they impact the way in which Indigenous peoples perceive themselves and how society views them?
A
Society as a whole may believe that Indigenous peoples are always dressed are such and “forage” for food and etc, in the wild
Indigenous people may struggle to grapple with the dissonance between their own perceptions (regular human beings who do live in homes etc) and how society views them
Potentially leading to Indigenous people feeling disconnected from who they are “supposed” to be
10
Q
- Stoic Indians
A
Unsmiling Indigenous peoples who speak few words can be found in classical cinema as well as in cinema of the 21st century.
This representation of Indigenous tribal members paints them as one-dimensional people who lack the ability to experience or display a similar range of emotions as other racial groups.
11
Q
- Medicine Men
A
Indigenous males are often portrayed in film and television shows as wise men with magical powers. Usually performing as medicine men of some kind, these characters have little function other than to guide White characters in the right direction.
12
Q
- Bloodthirsty Warriors
A
Hollywood has traditionally portrayed Indigenous peoples as tomahawk-wielding savages, ready to attack White characters and their families. These problematic representations also often have Indigenous characters engage in barbaric practices such as scalping people they have killed and sexually violating White women.
13
Q
- Wild and on the Rez
A
In Hollywood films, Indigenous peoples are typically portrayed as living in the wilderness and on reservations. In reality, considerable numbers of tribal members peoples live off reservations, including major cities and just about everywhere else across Canada and around the globe.
14
Q
What is authentic representation?
A
Like what we talked about with other misrepresentations in film and television, authentic representation involves people from the culture - actors, directors and writers who know and are a part of the filmmaking process.
15
Q
The lack of gender and racial diversity in Hollywood, as highlighted by zero female director nominations at the 2020 Oscars and the dominance of white male perspectives, contributes to …
A
societal inequalities by perpetuating stereotypes and limiting representation.
16
Q
This imbalance not only affects how women and minorities perceive themselves but also influences …
A
broader societal attitudes and behaviours.
17
Q
Efforts to address these inequities include promoting inclusion riders, implementing policy solutions, focusing on off-screen roles, and advocating for gender-balanced representation in film scripts to …
A
create a more equitable and inclusive industry
18
Q
Women
How are they represented?
A
Dumb Blondes
Man Stealer
Attractive Secretary
Love-obsessed best friend
Damsel in distress(when women are portrayed as needing a man to come and save them)
Women with kids are just seen as mothers(made to seem that they need to give up their lives for their children.
Used as sexual objects(gain attention)
19
Q
Women
What is dangerous about this representation?
A
These representations create flawed ideas about what women are/can do/etc
The “dumb blonde” narrative makes it difficult for women to be taken seriously and obtain an education
Representing women as needy and eager to be in relationships creates beliefs that suggest women’s only role is to be defined by their relationship with a man
Sexualizes a woman down to merely an object
20
Q
Women
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
A
The narratives presented by these representations of women perpetuate patriarchal ideologies, reinforcing male superiority and female inferiority. They depict women as subservient, intellectually inferior, and dependent on men for validation. These narratives serve to justify existing power imbalances and restrict women’s autonomy, reinforcing traditional gender roles and hindering progress toward gender equality.
21
Q
Men
How are they represented?
A
Films presented in today’s society depict men as being strong, self-sufficient, emotionless, and physically capable people.
22
Q
Men
What is dangerous about this representation?
A
Men who don’t fall into these categories placed on them by society question themselves as being “true men”. This can lead to many mental health issues that arise from the feeling of being an outcast, as well as Body Dysmophria, negatively reinforced gender roles and stereotypes, and alexithymia (difficulty expressing emotions, inability to recognize them).
23
Q
Men
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
A
The narrative presented by the representation of men as strong, self-sufficient, emotionless, and physically capable individuals in today’s films reinforces traditional gender norms and stereotypes. It suggests that men must conform to narrow standards of masculinity, prioritizing traits like strength and stoicism while devaluing vulnerability and emotional expression. This narrative persists due to societal expectations of what it means to be a “real man,” but it can be damaging by limiting men’s emotional expression and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
24
Q
Asian
How are they represented?
A
Asians in film are commonly represented as…
weak, incompetent, impolite etc. or geeky, arrogant, sly etc.
Model minority
Tiger mom
25
Asian
What is dangerous about this representation?
The model minority stereotype is dangerous because it oversimplifies Asian experiences, ignoring diversity and systemic barriers. By portraying Asians as universally successful and hardworking, it erases issues like poverty, educational inequities, and racism, potentially pitting Asians against other minority groups and undermining solidarity.
The tiger mom stereotype is harmful as it reinforces rigid parenting expectations and pressures Asian children to excel academically at the expense of their emotional well-being. This can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, perpetuating intergenerational trauma within Asian families. Additionally, it overlooks diverse parenting styles within Asian cultures and perpetuates the stereotype of Asians as overly strict and controlling.
26
Asian
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
Both the model minority and tiger mom stereotypes idealize certain aspects of Asian culture like academic achievement and discipline, while oversimplifying individual experiences.
This narrative suggests that Asian success stems solely from hard work and obedience, ignoring systemic factors and downplaying individual contributions.
27
Relationships
How are they represented?
Heterosexual Relationships
Damsel in distress - The female character is portrayed as weak and in need of saving by a strong man. Women in these movies are not shown as dependable or strong willed
The makeover - The protagonist goes through a big transformation and is suddenly viewed as desirable by the people around them
The Love Triangle - Two people fighting for the love of the same person
LGBTQ+ Relationships in Film
Purely Sexual - There are never two Gay people in a movie or show that are depicted as having a purely platonic relationship with each other
Depicted as Impure or Satanic - Often shown as something that people should fear, especially in older films
Something to be Hidden - Queer relationships are usually shown to be something that the couple in question is hiding from the world around them
28
Relationships
What is dangerous about this representation?
In heterosexual relationships, portraying the female character as a damsel in distress perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes, suggesting that women are weak and dependent on men for their well-being. This reinforces patriarchal notions of male dominance and female passivity, undermining the agency and strength of women. Additionally, the makeover trope reinforces shallow beauty standards and suggests that a person's worth is tied to their physical appearance, promoting unrealistic expectations and insecurities.
In LGBTQ+ relationships, depicting queer individuals as purely sexual or impure reinforces harmful stereotypes and contributes to stigma and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. It promotes the idea that queer relationships are deviant or abnormal, fostering fear and prejudice towards LGBTQ+ individuals. Furthermore, portraying queer relationships as something to be hidden perpetuates the marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals and undermines their right to openly express their identities and love.
29
Relationships
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
In heterosexual relationships, these representations often present a narrative of traditional gender roles and romanticized ideals, where women are passive recipients of male protection and validation. This narrative reinforces patriarchal power dynamics and suggests that women's worth is tied to their ability to attract and be saved by a man. It also promotes the notion that physical transformation is necessary for romantic success, perpetuating shallow beauty standards and insecurity.
In LGBTQ+ relationships, these representations often present a narrative of otherness and fear, where queer individuals are depicted as outsiders or threats to societal norms. This narrative reinforces heteronormative standards and suggests that queer relationships are abnormal or deviant. It also promotes the idea that queer individuals must hide their identities to avoid discrimination and persecution, perpetuating the marginalization and invisibility of LGBTQ+ experiences.
30
Arabs
How are they represented?
Arabs in film are often represented as the villain such as Jafar in the film Aladdin.
Arabs have also been portrayed negatively in films after 9/11. They are portrayed as terrorists, oil seekers, and overall evil people.
Even before 9/11, Arabs were seen in films as barbaric and violent.
31
Arabs
What is dangerous about this representation?
Portraying Arabs as villains, terrorists, and inherently evil perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fosters xenophobia and Islamophobia. It creates a narrative that demonizes an entire ethnic and cultural group, leading to prejudice, discrimination, and hate crimes against Arab individuals and communities.
32
Arabs
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
The representation of Arabs as villains and terrorists presents a narrative of Othering and fear, where Arab individuals are depicted as outsiders and threats to Western society. This narrative aligns with historical and political contexts, such as the aftermath of 9/11 and Western imperialism in the Middle East, which have contributed to the demonization and dehumanization of Arab people. By portraying Arabs as inherently violent or barbaric, these representations justify Western intervention and perpetuate stereotypes of Arab inferiority, serving to maintain power imbalances and justify discrimination against Arab individuals and communities.
33
Italians
How are they represented?
Italians are seen as members of the Mafia as opposed to your average everyday citizen
Showcased as people who participate in a lot of organized crime which has become a common stereotype for Italians in the media
Italian people are seen as having very low patience and to the point
Represented groups together in gangs
Lots of organized crime is showcased which has become a common stereotype among Italians
Large criminal underworld
34
Italians
What is dangerous about this representation?
Portraying Italians predominantly as members of the Mafia or involved in organized crime perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fosters prejudice and discrimination against Italian individuals and communities. This representation not only distorts reality but also erases the diversity of Italian identities and experiences. It can lead to the stigmatization of Italians as inherently criminal or untrustworthy, contributing to bias and hostility towards Italian people.
35
Italians
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
The representation of Italians as members of the Mafia or involved in organized crime presents a narrative of criminality and danger, where Italian individuals are depicted as threats to law and order. This narrative aligns with historical and cultural contexts, such as the prominence of organized crime in certain Italian-American communities, which have contributed to the perpetuation of stereotypes about Italian people. By focusing predominantly on criminality, these representations overlook the contributions and achievements of Italian individuals and communities, reinforcing negative stereotypes and perpetuating discrimination against Italians.
36
Teenagers
How are they represented?
Nerd: Stereotyped to wear Glasses, have Braces, have Acne.
Jock: Stereotyped to Play Sports, Get hot girls (cheerleaders), Popular, cocky, full of themselves and bad grades.
Cheerleader: Normally dating the star football player (Jock), the hottest girl in school, Dumb, blonde, snooty and social media obsessed.
Bully: Stereotyped to have Family Problems, Anger issues, picks on the nerds, and being self-conscious.
37
Teenagers
What is dangerous about this representation?
Portraying teenagers through stereotypes like the nerd, jock, cheerleader, and bully can be harmful as it oversimplifies their identities and reinforces harmful stereotypes. This can lead to individuals being unfairly judged and marginalized based on superficial characteristics or perceived social roles. It also perpetuates divisions and hierarchies within teenage communities, fostering a culture of exclusion and discrimination.
38
Teenagers
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
The representation of teenagers through these stereotypes presents a narrative of conformity and social hierarchy, where individuals are categorized based on superficial traits and social roles. This narrative reinforces the idea that people must fit into predetermined boxes or labels, limiting their individuality and potential. Additionally, it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about intelligence, athleticism, beauty, and social status, creating unrealistic expectations and perpetuating social inequalities. Overall, these representations fail to capture the complexity and diversity of teenage experiences and can contribute to negative self-image and social alienation among teenagers.
39
Russain Soviets
How are they represented?
Russians were stereotyped as the villains in film
It started after the Cold War as films started showing Western fears because Russians were seemed to be the bad guys during the war
Soviets were also stereotyped as the villains after the Cold War
Russian Women were stereotyped as prostitutes in Hollywood film
40
Russain Soviets
What is dangerous about this representation?
Russians are shown to be evil, and bad people due to the Cold War
This creates a stereotype for Russians which makes them feel less than due to something that happened in the past
Hollywood films still use Russians to represent the villains
These stereotypes could impact Russians' mental health as they can cause a form of discrimination against them due to the representation
41
Russain Soviets
What narrative are they presenting? Why?
The representation of Russians and Soviets as villains, spies, or prostitutes presents a narrative of Othering and fear, where Russian individuals are depicted as threats to Western society. This narrative aligns with historical and political contexts, such as the Cold War, which have contributed to the demonization and dehumanization of Russian people.
Additionally, these stereotypes are often used as convenient plot devices in Hollywood films, exploiting Cold War tensions and perpetuating sensationalized narratives for entertainment purposes. Overall, the narrative presented in these representations reinforces harmful biases and prejudices, contributing to the marginalization and discrimination of Russian individuals and communities.
42
Pre-1920s Film History
Early Cinematic Origins, the Infancy of Film
43
Pre-1920s Film History
Magic Lanterns
Had been around for decades before movies: simply were projectors of one image at a time.
44
Pre-1920s
Phenakistoscope
Like a flip book, but in a strip or circle. Disc spun in front of the light source to produce an illusion of a moving image. From 1832.
45
Pre-1920s
Thomas Edison
Famous American inventor (who also invented the phonograph). 1888: patented the IDEA of a motion-picture machine; had not made it yet. Kinetoscope debuted in 1891 (“peephole” – the box ran the film through rollers). The first copyrighted “film” that survived is Edison “Sneeze” from 1894
46
Pre-1920s
Nickelodeons
This means “Nickel” theatres. Would play continuously; people came into a storefront to watch. 8, 000 nickelodeons in the USA by 1908.
47
Pre-1920s
First 35mm Film
This was filmed by a camera mounted on the front of a cable car in 1906. It was lost but has been found.
48
Pre-1920s Film History
Early Movie Milestones
The Great Train Robbery (1903)
Told a story
Edited images from simultaneous
10 minutes; 14 scenes
D.W. Griffith: first great “artist” of film as director (made 3-hour epic “Birth of a Nation” in 1915 about KKK)
Charlie Chaplin: “The Little Tramp” character established by the mid-1910s
Movies were silent; accompanied in theatres by a live piano player
49
Pre-1920s
Film Studios***
Making “Hollywood;” made the film business a big business
Big 5 were: Warner, Famous Players, RKO, Loews (MGM), Fox
Smaller studios didn’t own their own theatre chains (Universal, Columbia)
United Artists was formed in 1919 by Douglas Fairbanks (action star), Mary Pickford (“America’s Sweetheart”), Chaplin and Griffith
This led to the creation of genres because each studio was creating the same kind of movies to mass produce quickly
50
1920s Film History
The Pre-Talkies and Silent Era
51
1920s Film History
Clara Bow
First “it girl” (sex symbol)
Also a symbol of the 1920s “flappers”
Women ditched their corsets and cut their hair short and so the flapper was born. Rebellious and determined, flappers flirted, danced, smoked, and frequented speakeasies.
Highest-paid
Tragic: drinking, gambling, and a voice that didn’t work in the “talkies”
52
The first talkie was in
1927
53
1920s Film History
1929 - Disney Productions Established
Skeleton Animation
54
1920s Film History
Some Top Films of the 1920s
3rd - The Gold Rush
2nd - Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror
1st - Metropolis
55
1930s Film History -
The Talkies, the Growth of the Studios and 'The Golden Age of Hollywood
56
1930s Film History
The Golden Age of Hollywood
The 1930s and the start of the 1940s are known as the “Golden Age of Hollywood”
Also had the first colour movies by the end of the decade
Top films: Wizard of Oz & Gone with the Wind (1939), Snow White (1937 – first Disney full-length feature
Why so successful during the Great Depression?
An escape from harsh realities
57
1930s Film History
The Wizard of Oz
Emphasis on colour - Ruby Slippers, Yellow Brick Road, Emerald City
One of the first films to be done using the new technology Technicolor
58
1930s Film History
Trends of the 1930s
Genres: Gangster, Western, Dance-Musical, Horror…
Strong Women: Katherine Hepburn, Mae West
Young Stars: Shirley Temple, Mickey Rooney
59
1930s Film History
Some Top Films of the 1930s
2nd - The Wizard of Oz
1st - Gone with the Wind
60
1940s Film History
The War and Post-War Years, the Beginnings of Film Noir
61
1940s Film History
Films:
1. Casablanca (1942)
62
1940s Film History
Technological Developments:
1. Technicolor: Widely used for colour films during this period, enhancing visual appeal.
2. Improvements in sound technology: Better sound recording and playback systems were developed
3. Advancements in special effects: Techniques such as matte painting and miniatures were refined, enabling more realistic effects.
63
1940s Film History
Genres/Movements:
Film Noir: Characterized by its dark themes, cynical characters, and stark cinematography, film noir dominated much of the 1940s.
War Films: Given the context of World War II, many films during this period focused on war-related themes and narratives.
64
1940s Film History
Major Stars:
Humphrey Bogart
Ingrid Bergman
Cary Grant
65
1940s Film History
Historical Events:
World War II: The impact of the war was reflected in many films of the era, both directly and indirectly, influencing themes and narratives.
Post-war anxieties: The aftermath of World War II shaped the tone of many films, contributing to the rise of film noir and darker narratives.
66
1940s Film History
Other Important Information:
The Hollywood Blacklist: During the late 1940s and early 1950s, the Hollywood Blacklist, fueled by McCarthyism, had a significant impact on the film industry, leading to the persecution of many industry professionals suspected of having Communist sympathies.
67
1950s Film History -
The Cold War and Post-Classical Era, the Era of Epic Films and the Threat of Television
68
1950s Film History
Films
2. Singin' in the Rain (1952)
3. On the Waterfront (1954)
69
1950s Film History
Technological Developments:
1. Cinemascope: a widescreen format that enhanced the cinematic experience, and led to the production of epic films.
3. Eastmancolor: A new colour film stock, that provides improved colour reproduction and stability.
4. Television competition: With the rise of television, Hollywood responded with innovations such as widescreen formats and colour film to attract audiences back to theatres.
70
1950s Film History
Genres/Movements:
Epic Films: The 1950s saw a resurgence of epic films, characterized by grand scale productions, sweeping narratives, and spectacular visuals.
Film Noir: The influence of film noir continued in the 1950s, with classics like "Sunset Boulevard" and "Vertigo" showcasing the genre's dark and psychological themes.
Westerns: Westerns remained a popular genre, with films like "The Searchers" and "Giant" exploring themes of myth, morality, and the American frontier.
71
1950s FIlm History
Major Stars:
Audrey Hepburn
72
1950s FIlm History
Historical Events:
Cold War tensions: The Cold War and fears of nuclear annihilation influenced many films of the era, particularly in the science fiction genre.
73
1950s FIlm History
Other Important Info:
Red Scare: The fear of Communism led to increased scrutiny and censorship in Hollywood, impacting the content of films and the careers of many industry professionals
74
1960s Film History -
The End of the Hollywood Studio System, and the Era of Independent, Underground Cinema
75
1960s Film History
Films
1. Psycho (1960)
76
1960s Film History
Technological Developments:
Independent Filmmaking: The decline of the Hollywood studio system opened up opportunities for independent filmmakers to create bold and unconventional films outside the mainstream industry.
Cinematic Experimentation: Filmmakers experimented with nonlinear narratives, surreal imagery, and avant-garde techniques to push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
77
1960s FIlm History
Genres/Movements:
Independent Cinema: The rise of independent cinema provided a platform for filmmakers to explore unconventional themes and styles outside the mainstream Hollywood system.
Counterculture Films: Films like "The Graduate" and "Easy Rider" reflected the rebellious spirit and social upheaval of the 1960s counterculture, addressing themes of alienation, disillusionment, and freedom.
78
1960s FIlm History
Major Stars:
Elizabeth Taylor
79
1960s Film History
Historical Events:
Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement continued to influence film, with more diverse representation and themes of racial equality.
Vietnam War: The Vietnam War became a significant backdrop in many films of the late 1960s, reflecting the social and political turmoil of the era.
80
1960s FIlm History
Other Important Information:
Counter-Cultural Movements: The 1960s saw the rise of countercultural movements such as the hippie movement, which influenced film themes and styles, particularly in independent cinema.
81
1970s Film History -
The Last Golden Age of American Cinema (the American "New Wave"), and the Advent of the Blockbuster Film
82
1970s Film History
Films
1. The Godfather (1972)
2. Star Wars (1977)
3. Taxi Driver (1976)
83
1970s Film History
Technological Developments:
1. Dolby Stereo: revolutionized sound in cinemas, providing a more immersive audio experience.
2. Steadicam: allowed for smooth and stable tracking shots
3. Computerized Special Effects: paved the way for more sophisticated special effects, seen in films like Star Wars.
84
1970s Film History
Genres/Movements:
Blaxploitation: Blaxploitation films, featuring predominantly African American casts and urban settings, gained popularity during this decade, addressing social issues and celebrating black culture.
Summer Blockbuster:
85
1970s Film History
Major Stars:
Robert De Niro
Al Pacino
86
1970s Film History
Historica; Events
End of Vietnam War: The Vietnam War ended in 1975, influencing many films of the era and leading to a reevaluation of American identity and values.
87
1970s Film History
Other Important Information:
Summer Blockbuster Era Begins: The success of films like Jaws and Star Wars marked the beginning of the blockbuster era, characterized by high-concept, big-budget productions designed to attract large audiences.
88
1980s Film History -
Teen-Oriented Angst Films, and the Dawn of the Sequel, with More Blockbusters
89
1980s Film History
Films
1. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
3. Back to the Future (1985)
90
1980s Film History
Technological Developments:
.
2. Home Video Revolution: The rise of home video formats such as VHS and Betamax revolutionized the distribution and consumption of films, leading to increased accessibility for audiences.
91
1980s Film History
Genres/Movements:
Action Cinema: The 1980s saw a surge in action films, often featuring larger-than-life heroes and high-octane stunts.
Teen Movies: Teen-oriented films, often exploring themes of adolescence and rebellion, gained popularity during this decade.
Sequels: Popular due to established franchises, box office success, and fan demand.
92
1980s Film History
Major Stars
Tom Cruise
93
1980s Film History
Historical Events:
End of the Cold War: The 1980s saw significant geopolitical shifts, including the easing of tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, which influenced the themes and narratives of many films.
Rise of Consumer Culture: The 1980s marked a period of consumerism and materialism, reflected in films that celebrated wealth and excess.
94
1980s Film History
Other Important Information:
MTV Influence: The rise of MTV and music videos in the 1980s influenced the visual style and editing techniques of many films, particularly in the use of fast-paced editing and dynamic visuals.
95
1990s Film History -
The Era of Mainstream Films and Alternative or Independent ("Indie") Cinema; and the Rise of Computer-Generated Films; also the Decade of Remakes, Re-releases, and More Sequels
96
1990s Film History
Films
Toy Story (1995)
Titanic (1997)
The Matrix (1999)
97
1990s FIlm History
Technological Developments:
CGI Advancements: The rise of computer-generated imagery (CGI) revolutionized visual effects, as seen in films like "Jurassic Park."
3D Animation: "Toy Story" showcased the potential of 3D animation, leading to advancements in CGI technology.
High Definition (HD) (1998): High-definition technology provided greater detail and clarity in visual representation, enhancing the viewing experience.
98
1990s FIlm History
Film Movements/Genres:
Mainstream Films: Dominated by blockbuster hits and big-budget productions catering to wide audiences.
Independent Cinema (Indie): The rise of indie films challenged mainstream conventions, offering alternative narratives and storytelling approaches.
99
1990s Film History
Movie Stars:
Leonardo DiCaprio
Brad Pitt
100
1990s Film History
Historical Events:
Rise of the Internet (1993): The rise of the internet influenced narratives in films, leading to cyber-themed movies and concerns about the virtual world, as seen in "The Matrix."
Y2K Anxiety (1999): Fear of the Y2K bug and system failures influenced dystopian narratives in films like "Fight Club," reflecting societal anxieties about the new millennium.
101
1990s Film History
Other Important Information:
The 1990s saw a surge in remakes, re-releases, and numerous sequels, reflecting both nostalgic appeal and commercial interests in established franchises.
102
2000s Films -
he New Millenium, an Age of Advanced Special Effects, and the Search for the Perfect Blockbuster
103
2000s Film History
Films:
1. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)
2. The Dark Knight (2008)
3. Avatar (2009)
104
2000s Film History
Technological Developments:
1. Advanced Special Effects: Computer-generated imagery (CGI) continued to advance, allowing for more realistic and seamless integration of visual effects in films.
2. Internet Distribution: The rise of online streaming platforms and digital distribution channels transformed the way films were marketed and consumed, leading to greater accessibility for audiences worldwide.
105
2000s Film History
Genres/Movements:
Blockbuster Cinema: The 2000s saw the rise of blockbuster films, characterized by big budgets, high-concept premises, and cutting-edge special effects.
Superhero Films: Superhero films became a dominant genre, with franchises like "Spider-Man" and "The Dark Knight" achieving massive commercial success.
Fantasy and Sci-Fi: Fantasy and science fiction films gained popularity, with franchises like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars" captivating audiences with their epic storytelling and imaginative worlds.
106
2000s Film History
Major Stars:
Leonardo DiCaprio
Johnny Depp
Kate Winslet
107
2000s Film History
Historical Events:
September 11 Attacks: The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, had a profound impact on American society and culture, influencing the themes and narratives of many films released in the 2000s.
War on Terror: The geopolitical landscape shaped by the War on Terror influenced many films, particularly those addressing themes of conflict, terrorism, and national security.
108
2000s Film History
Other Important Information:
Globalization of Cinema: The 2000s saw the globalization of cinema, with Hollywood films achieving unprecedented success in international markets and foreign-language films gaining recognition on the global stage.
109
Hayes Code
The Motion Picture Production Code of 1930 (Hays Code)
”If motion pictures present stories that will affect lives for the better, they can become the most powerful force for the improvement of mankind
Film producers acknowledge the global trust placed in them, making movies a universal entertainment medium.
They recognize their duty to the public, given the influential nature of entertainment and art in society.
While primarily for entertainment, they understand movies' potential impact on spiritual, moral, and social progress.
With the shift to talking pictures, they see the need for a production Code and reaffirm their responsibility.
They seek public and leadership understanding and cooperation to elevate films to higher standards of wholesome entertainment for all.
110
Hays Code
Task: For as many items as you can below, identify and describe a scene from a movie, TV show or video game that breaks the rule.
3. Law, natural or human, shall not be ridiculed, nor shall sympathy be created for its violation.
In How I Met Your Mother, there is an episode that features Marshall streaking and it is viewed as humorous as the law as a whole is being ridiculed.
111
Hays Code
Task: For as many items as you can below, identify and describe a scene from a movie, TV show or video game that breaks the rule.
a. Theft, robbery, safe-cracking, and dynamiting of trains, mines, buildings, etc., should not be detailed in the method.
In the first episode of How I Met Your Mother, Ted, the protagonist of the story runs into a restaurant and steals their signature Blue Horn.
112
Hays Code
Task: For as many items as you can below, identify and describe a scene from a movie, TV show or video game that breaks the rule.
c. The use of firearms should be restricted to the essentials.
In How I Met Your Mother, Robin often goes to the gun range to cool off by shooting targets.
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Hays Code
Task: For as many items as you can below, identify and describe a scene from a movie, TV show or video game that breaks the rule.
3. Illegal drug traffic must never be presented.
In How I Met Your Mother, Lily, Marshall, and Ted smoke weed in college, with the weed being visually replaced by sandwiches.
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Hays Code
Task: For as many items as you can below, identify and describe a scene from a movie, TV show or video game that breaks the rule.
4. The use of liquor in American life, when not required by the plot or for proper characterization, will not be shown.
In How I Met Your Mother the central characters are frequently drinking.
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Hays Code
2) Which rules do you think should no longer apply? Why not?
Some of the rules regarding sex and nudity might need revisiting, as societal attitudes towards these topics have evolved. There's a greater acceptance and understanding of diverse forms of relationships and expressions of intimacy.
Restrictions on language might also be reconsidered, as what is considered profane or vulgar can vary widely based on cultural context and audience expectations.
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Hays Code
1) Which rules do you think should still apply in 2007? Why are those good guidelines?
Crimes Against the Law:
Rule 1 (a) & (b): Techniques of murder and brutal killings should still be handled with caution to avoid inspiring imitation or desensitizing viewers to violence.
Rule 2 (c): The use of firearms should be restricted to essential plot elements to avoid normalizing gun violence.
Sex:
Rule 2 (a) & (b): Excessive sexual content should be avoided unless integral to the plot, to maintain appropriate standards for different age groups and societal norms.
These rules still hold value in maintaining a level of decency and respect for the audience, regardless of the time period.
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Hays Code
Identify one or more of the outdated rules? What was their purpose at the time?
Rules regarding miscegenation (sex relationships between white and black races) and white slavery reflect the racial attitudes prevalent during the time of the Hays Code. They aimed to uphold societal norms and prejudices of the era, which are now rightly seen as discriminatory and unjust.
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Hays Code
4) After comparing 1930 to the present, what conclusions do you draw about the movies/media products today?
Today, media products are much more diverse and reflective of the complexities of human experience. There's a broader range of content exploring themes such as sexuality, violence, and social issues. However, debates around censorship, cultural sensitivity, and the impact of media on society persist.
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Hays Code
5) Should there be separate ratings for movies versus home video? Why or why not?
Separate ratings might be beneficial as the context of consumption differs between theaters and home viewing. What is acceptable for a public cinema audience might not be suitable for private viewing at home, especially considering the presence of children.
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Hays Code
6) Should there be separate ratings for other media forms, such as song lyrics or video games? Why or why not?
Ratings for other media forms like song lyrics or video games could be useful for guiding consumers, especially parents, in making informed choices. However, enforcing such ratings across diverse platforms and content creators could be challenging.
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What is a genre:
A category or type of film.
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Genres help to classify or organize films -
they create a “that looks familiar, I have seen that before” reaction in our brains.
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Can you come up with some examples of storylines that happen in specific genres - For example - in action movies, they always get the bad guy
In rom-coms…
The girl always gets the guy
There's always a sad moment and it’s raining
A meet-cute
They get together at the end of the film
But they almost didn't get together
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Some of the big genres
Genres are broad categories that many films can be placed into:
Western
Gangster
Romantic Comedy
Horror
Musical
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The ? System led to the formation of genres.
What decade was it in?
Studio
1920s
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Studios wanted to
put out as many films in a little time as possible, creating genres.
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Why were genres successful?
Found what was successful - made minor tweaks in the films, the successful patterns became the genres we now know.
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Which decade was the term genre used?
1970s
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What are stock characters? Can you think of any examples of these?
Stock characters help to build genres
They are usually secondary characters and are easily recognizable from frequent over occurrences in the film.
For example… the sidekick, the damsel, the girl next door, the femme fatale, etc
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Why do you think genres have themes?
Genres tend to be united by themes
Example -
Western - lone individual, end of the frontier
Detective - the world is bad, people are looking for something good
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Genres have themes to
create familiar storytelling frameworks for audiences, guiding expectations and allowing filmmakers to explore deeper concepts within the confines of a particular genre.
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What is iconography?
Repeated images or sounds among a genre.
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List the 5 Stages of Genre:
1. Primitive Stage
2. Classical Stage
3. Revisionist
4. Parody
5. Extension
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1. Primitive Stage
Early or birth of the genre
Techniques are not well established and conventions not developed - these are the first attempts
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2. Classical Stage
Patterns are continuing
A following has developed
Values of the genre have been solidified
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3. Revisionist
Iconography is similar, but more complex and ambiguous
Values of the original genre are questioned (maybe the bad guy turns out to be good)
May have to watch closely to see the ties to the original genre
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4. Parody
Similar iconography
The theme will stay the same
Mocking the genre
Stock characters will be over-embellished
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5. Extension
Take the themes and values of the genre
Iconography may change
Structure may change
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2 genres I should know...
Film Noir
Blaxploitation
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Film Noir
Literally means black or dark film
Came out post WWII when people were very cynical - the horrors of the Holocaust and war were known 1945-1950 being the height
Dark setting - low light
Uses the contrast of light and dark on purpose to show the contrast of the good and evil people in society
Dark themes - Man is not good
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Darkness in Film Noir
Cities are mean, nasty places where anything can happen at any moment
Violence and crime occur often, usually randomly
Sex: strip clubs, bars, sultry women abound
Film noir uses high-contrast lighting with lots of shadows. Sometimes props are the only source of light
This is called low-key lighting.
Always seems to be rainy and foggy
Comedies and musicals use high-key lighting to create uniform light with little contrast
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Stock Characters of Film Noir
Femme Fatale
A “dangerous woman” who traps or pulls the male protagonist (usually a common, everyday Joe) into a world of crime and danger. She is sexy, dangerous, and often filled with “mad love,” greed, or jealousy. Modern film example: Marla from Fight Club
Detectives -
Usually, single men, have their own issues
Never finding love, hurt by love, etc
Smoke cigarettes, drink
Drink hard liquor
Similar style of clothing in each film
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Neo-noir was
an extension of film noir
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Blaxploitation
Blaxploitation or blacksploitation is a film genre that emerged in the U.S. in the 1970s
Blaxploitation films were originally made specifically for an urban black audience, although the genre's audience appeal soon broadened across racial and ethnic lines
Blaxploitation films were the first to regularly feature soundtracks of funk and soul music as well as primarily black casts
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Shot Types:
These terms describe the camera’s viewpoint and show the effect this might have on the audience. The following examples are taken from clips of The Dark Knight.
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Camera Movement:
These terms describe the way in which a camera is moved to direct our attention to emphasize a particular viewpoint.
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Mise en scène:
This term is used to describe what is in the frame and why.
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Lighting:
This term is used to describe how lighting is used to draw attention to a person or object, or to hide it.
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Sound:
This term is used to describe the presence and purpose of the soundtrack and other sound effects.
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Editing:
This term is used to describe the changing shots within a piece of film.
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Title Graphics:
This term is used to describe the title and credits of a film, and what the colours and background can tell us about the genre of the genre of the film.
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Long Shot:
A long shot establishes where the scene takes place, showing either a full subject and/or an extensive background.
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Mid Shot:
A mid shot shows the torso of the subject and some background.
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Close-Up:
A close-up is used to show emotion and/or draw attention to the face or another subject depicted in the shot.
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Over the Shoulder Shot:
This is used when two characters are interacting face to face.
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Point-of-view Shot:
Depicts the action of the scene from a character’s viewpoint, either to encourage empathy from the audience or to establish mood or importance.
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High Angle Shot:
The camera looks down on the person or object, making the person or object appear vulnerable or insignificant.
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Low Angle Shot:
The camera looks up at the person or object, making the person or object appear powerful or important.
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Panning Shot:
The camera moves slowly across from side to side from a fixed axis.
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Tilt Shot:
The camera moves up and down from a fixed axis.
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Crane Shot:
The camera, mounted on a crane, moves around at a distance and above ground level.
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Tracking Shot:
The camera follows the action, mounted on tracks laid for that purpose, often pulling backward from a scene.
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Hand Held:
Used to create a greater sense of authenticity; for example, it could be used to provide eyewitness accounts of a specific character.
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Mise en Scène
There are four different things to consider when analyzing what is in a scene, why it was chosen, and whether it is effective:
1. Setting and props
2. Costume and makeup
3. Body language and facial expression
4. Lighting and colour
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Why are mise en scene factors important?
These are important because each of these factors combine to create a certain “look” or “feel,” or combine to create an important message or idea.
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Lighting
Lighting quickly creates an atmosphere on screen. If it is dark and shadowy we might be made to feel uneasy, as in a thriller; if the lighting is bright we feel happy and confident. The filmmaker can use lighting to draw our attention to a person/object or equally, to hide them.
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Sound
There are three elements to a film soundtrack:
1. Dialogue
2. Music
3. Sound effects
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Why are sound elements important?
The soundtrack is important because it reveals the thoughts or motives of characters, or helps to create an atmosphere that compliments the character or the scene.
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Watch this clip from the film Good Morning Vietnam. Why do you think this song was chosen? How does it add to the scene?
The song "What a Wonderful World" in the film "Good Morning, Vietnam" is likely chosen for its poignant contrast with the chaotic and often grim reality of the Vietnam War. The song's uplifting melody and optimistic lyrics create a stark juxtaposition against the backdrop of war, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of the situation.
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Foley Artists
Foley artists are sound professionals responsible for creating and recording sound effects for films, television shows, video games, and other media productions. These sound effects often include everyday noises such as footsteps, door creaks, and rustling clothing, which help enhance the realism and immersion of the audio experience for viewers or players.
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Editing
The speed with which a shot changes can be very effective at creating an atmosphere.
The speed with which a shot changes affects a viewer.
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Rapid editing makes you:
Excited
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Slow editing makes you:
Relaxed.
