Understanding the impact of historical, social, and cultural contexts on films

Understanding the impact of historical, social, and cultural contexts on films

Understanding Historical Context

  • Historical Era: Understand the period in which the film is set. This can heavily influence various elements, such as dialogue, clothing, setting, and general societal norms.

  • Significant Historical Events: Recognize any key events from history portrayed or referenced in the film. Evaluate how these events shape the characters, conflict, or narrative.

  • Historical Accuracy: Analyse the authenticity of the film’s depiction of the era. Yet, also understand that filmmakers might manipulate some aspects for artistic or narrative purposes.

Understanding Sociocultural Context

  • Societal Norms & Values: Familiarise yourself with common societal norms and values at the time the film was created or within the era it is set. This knowledge provides insight into characters’ motivations, behaviours, and beliefs.

  • Identity and Representation: Observe how the film portrays different groups - such as gender, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, etc. Note if these portrayals reinforce or challenge stereotypes.

  • Sociopolitical Climate: Identify major sociopolitical issues that the film may be responding to or commenting on. These might involve race relations, gender equality, class disparity, environmental concerns, etc.

  • Moderations and Censorship: Understand how the cultural and social context can affect film content, including censorship standards at the time of the film’s release.

Cultural References

  • Symbolism and Visual Metaphors: Look for symbols or metaphors that are culturally significant. The understanding of these elements can highlight deeper meanings.

  • Allusive Techniques: Identify any references to other films, works of art, literature, historic figures/events, or popular culture. These allusions can indicate a director’s inspiration or aim to create specific connotations.

  • Language and Dialogue: Pay attention to how language is used in the film. Colloquial phrases, cultural idioms, accent, and language choices can reveal setting, characterization, and cultural context.

Influence of Cultural Movements

  • Artistic and Cultural Movements: Identify any influences from artistic or cultural movements such as German Expressionism, French New Wave, or British Social Realism.

  • Influence of Technology: Assess how technological advancements of the time have affected the filmmaking process and the film’s style. Examples might include the advent of colour film, digital effects, or sound technology.

  • Influence of Film Movements: Understand how film movements that were prevalent during the time of the film’s production could have influenced it. These include film noir, neorealism, the Hollywood Golden Age, etc.

Through understanding these aspects of historical, social and cultural contexts, you’ll develop a richer perspective of the film’s meaning, the filmmaker’s intentions, and the audience’s reception.