Superhuman

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

• 2020 Tokyo Paralympics by Channel 4
• subverts stereotypes of paralympians being pitied/idolised
• focuses on sacrifices made and the ‘blood and guts’ harsh reality
• typical day to day struggles

Question 2

Context

Answer 2

• created by Channel 4 for 2020 Tokyo Paralympics
• sacrifices made in pursuit of greatness
• mental determination and will power
• ideology = abolish ablist attitudes and focus on the struggles the athletes face e.g. defying medical advice
• address marginalisation and educate audience
• real athletes

Question 3

Context: Channel 4 Ethos

Answer 3

• “giving a voice to those who are not represented positively in other areas of the media”

Question 4

Analysis: Ellie Simmonds

Answer 4

• low angle mid shot
• authority, dominance and power
• jump cuts and outfit changes symbolise different races — she is successful
• iconography of multiple gold medals — powerful and accomplished
• facial expressions —- confident and determined

Question 5

Theory of Identity

Answer 5

• David Gauntlett
• “media provides us with tools to construct our identities and offers us a diverse range of stars and icons form who we pick and mix ideas”
• disabled people see themselves represented positively
• could be said that the video isn’t as diverse as it could be

Question 6

Analysis: Basketball

Answer 6

• two shot of two athletes playing basketball in wheelchairs
• woman gets knocked over and sustains injury — lots of adversity to deal with (determination)
• collision of wheelchairs — strength
• empowering but could be marginalising her — defined by struggles
  —- contrasts idea of ‘humanising’ as she is represented as ‘super’

Question 7

Analysis: Montage

Answer 7

• low angle, long shot montage of joints being taped, strapped and pushed into prosthetics
• hyperbolic sound of grunting — physical routine and pain they go through
• physical battle of determination — ‘gritty and real’ rather than glamorous

Question 8

Theory of Representation

Answer 8

• Stuart Hall
• “meaning is produced and exchanged between members of a culture through language, signs and images which represent things”
• avoids simplifying the representation of marginalised groups – audience easily recognise signs
• expressions of endurance and struggle
• stereotyping occurs when there are inequalities of power
• represents paralympians as ordinary sports men/women —- striving to achieve a goal
• 3 dimensional and distinct

Question 9

Conclusion

Answer 9

• those with disabilities are not to be pitied or seen as ‘super’