Straight Outta Compton Flashcards
Who produced and distributed Straight Outta Compton?
Produced by: Legendary Pictures
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
What was SOC nominated for?
An academy award for best original screenplay
Where is SOC set, and what historical event might the film have been influenced by?
Set in mid 80’s California. The depiction of the film may have been influenced and impacted by the racial tension from the LA riots in 1992
Why were N.W.A culturally significant?
They were significant in social change as advocates for free speech, producers of protest songs and as highly successful black men from disenfranchised urban communities
What were N.W.A heavily criticised for?
- Misogynistic lyrics
- Promotion of a lifestyle that marginalised and objectifies women
What can be said about the economic content of SOC?
2 members of the original band N.W.A co-produced the film, this has significance in the funding of the film and the portrayal of historical events
Why might SOC have been said to have glorified the band and N.W.A’s lifestyle?
They downplayed and sanitised the more problematic aspects of their work
What can be said about synergy for SOC?
The soundtrack of the film, and Dr Dre’s inspired album ‘Compton’ were released in conjunction with the film
Was SOC risky for producers?
No, as N.W.A were highly successful, and the success of other hip hop biopics such as Notorious (2009) and 8 mile (2002) guaranteed an audience for the film
How might Curran and Seaton be linked to SOC?
Their story might have been reduced to a profit making exercise by industries which can be linked to the theory that media industries are driven by the motives of power and profit
How might Hesmondhalgh be linked to SOC?
The idea that media conglomerates operates across a range of cultural industries such as the film being released in conjunction with very successful music albums. This increases audiences and global distribution of the text
What did the BBFC rate SOC?
Theatrical release - 15 certificate
Directors cut - 18 certificate
Who regulates films in America?
MPAA
What did the MPAA rate SOC?
‘R’ rating, under 17s can’t watch without a parent
Why are age ratings important to producers and distributors?
Different age ratings will affect the global distribution. For example, a 15 rating in the UK opens the film to a much wider audience than an 18 certificate
