The Contexts of Film

The Contexts of Film

Historical and Social Context

  • Period: From 1995 onwards, the British film industry witnessed a revival alongside key historical events and social changes. What was happening in the UK and worldwide during the time these films were made?

  • Censorship and Regulations: The role of organisations such as the British Board of Film Classification and the British Film Institute can affect film production and circulation. Investigate if any censorship or regulation issues existed for the films being studied.

  • Filmmakers: Learn about the directors, writers, performers, and cinematographers involved in the films. Their backgrounds, beliefs and intentions can shed light on their work.

  • Audience Response: Audience views and responses are a vital part of film context. Consider both the contemporary and current audience responses and how these may have affected the film’s success and legacy.

Financial and Institutional Context

  • Budget and Funding: The budget and funding methods of a film can greatly influence its nature and scope. Understand where the money came from and if there were fiscal constraints or freedoms at play.

  • Production Companies: Get familiar with the production companies involved. They can often play a major role in determining a film’s content and marketing.

  • Distribution and Marketing: Look at how the films were marketed and distributed, both domestically and globally. The reach and reception can vary greatly depending on these factors.

Political and Ideological Context

  • Representation: Explore how different groups are portrayed in the films, such as individuals of various races, genders, classes, sexual orientations, and abilities.

  • Themes and Values: Each film embodies certain themes and values. Identify what they are, how they’re presented and why they’re significant.

  • Politics: British film often presents political commentaries, either explicitly or implicitly. Seek out these messages and analyse their implications.

  • Influence: Following on from the above point, explore the influence (or lack thereof) these films had on political and social discourse or change.

Cultural Context

  • Genre: Genre can provide key insights into cultural context. What genres do the films belong to, and what do these genres typically convey about the culture from which they originate?

  • Influence of Other Media: Films don’t exist in a vacuum and are often influenced by other art forms, like literature, music, and visual art. Identify these influences and consider why they were incorporated.

  • Impact on Pop Culture: The cultural impact of a film is an important aspect of its context. Examine the film’s legacy, including references in later works, its influence on other creators, and its place in popular culture.

Remember, all these points serve as guidelines on what to focus on while revising. Always keep an interdisciplinary approach, examine the interplay of different factors and understand the film as a confluence of artistry, industry, and politics.