Y11MPA S1W1-7

Weeks 1–7: Foundations of Media and Short Film Production

In Weeks 1–7, students explore the interplay between popular culture and short film production. Through a mix of theoretical analysis and practical application, they examine storytelling techniques, audience engagement, and the representation of societal values in media. Students analyse professional short films to deepen their understanding of narrative, representation, and ideology while building technical skills in cinematography, sound, and editing. These weeks culminate in pre-production planning, equipping students to create compelling short films that reflect their understanding of media languages and audience expectations.

Week 1: Introduction to Media and Popular Culture – Short Film

In the first week, students are introduced to the concept of popular culture and its influence on short films. By analyzing The Present (2014) by Jacob Frey and Hair Love (2019) by Matthew A. Cherry, students explore how short films reflect or critique societal values. The week lays the foundation for understanding media's role in popular culture and its storytelling techniques.

Week 2: Narrative Structures in Short Films

Week 2 focuses on the essential narrative structures of short films within the context of popular culture. Students deconstruct plotlines, character arcs, and conflict resolution in selected short films to understand how these elements contribute to effective storytelling. This week emphasizes the role of narrative in engaging audiences and communicating themes.

Week 3: Representation in Media

In Week 3, students examine how various groups, cultures, and ideas are represented in media. Through class discussions, they analyze stereotypes, tropes, and the impacts of these representations on audience perception. The week encourages critical thinking about the power of media to shape societal views and promotes nuanced representation in student projects.

Week 4: Technical Aspects of Short Film Production

Week 4 shifts focus to the technical elements of filmmaking, such as cinematography, sound design, and editing. Students participate in workshops to develop hands-on skills and analyze technical choices in professional short films. This practical focus equips students with the tools needed to enhance their own short film productions.

Week 5: Ideology and Messages in Media

In Week 5, students explore the underlying messages and ideologies conveyed through media texts. By identifying and discussing societal values embedded in selected short films, they develop the ability to critically assess media content. This week challenges students to consider how their own productions can convey powerful messages and themes.

Week 6: Audience Engagement and Reception

Week 6 examines how different audiences interpret and respond to media texts. Students study audience demographics, psychographics, and the concept of active vs. passive consumption. By understanding how audiences engage with media, students refine their production choices to connect effectively with their target viewers.

Week 7: Pre-Production Planning for Short Films

In the final week of this unit, students begin the pre-production process for their short film projects. They create storyboards, scripts, shot lists, and production schedules, applying the theoretical knowledge and technical skills acquired in previous weeks. This preparation ensures students are well-equipped to bring their creative visions to life.

Modified Bloom’s Taxonomy for Academic Writing

1. Identify – Recognising key concepts, theories, and relevant sources.

2. Explain – Summarising and defining ideas in your own words.

3. Discuss – Exploring multiple perspectives and supporting arguments.

4. Analyse – Breaking down arguments, comparing sources, and finding patterns.

5. Evaluate – Assessing strengths, weaknesses, and implications.

Welcome to Week 1!

This week, we’ll dive into the concept of Popular Culture and its influence on short films. Through examples such as The Present (2014) by Jacob Frey and Hair Love (2019) by Matthew A. Cherry, we will explore how popular culture themes resonate with audiences. We’ll also examine how filmmakers use storytelling and visual techniques to reflect or critique societal values. These lessons will set the foundation for your short film projects and analytical work.

What Is Popular Culture in Media?

Popular culture refers to the trends, ideas, and entertainment forms that dominate mainstream society. In media, popular culture is shaped by:

• Themes: Relatable ideas like belonging, ambition, or identity.

• Genre conventions: Familiar storytelling structures, such as comedy, drama, or romance.

• Audience engagement: Designed for mass appeal, often reflecting shared cultural experiences.

• Representation: Portraying people, places, and ideas in ways that reflect societal norms—or challenge them.

To understand these concepts, we’ll study how short films reflect popular culture through their themes, storytelling techniques, and representations.

Your Tasks This Week

Read:

1. Chapter 1: Film as Art – Creativity, Technology, and Business (from Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith).

   • Focus on:

     • The creative possibilities of filmmaking as an artistic medium.

     • How filmmakers balance artistic expression with audience engagement.

2. Chapter 3: Narrative Form – Causality and Storytelling.

   • Pay attention to:

     • How stories are constructed using causality, time, and space.

     • The relationship between conflict, resolution, and audience engagement.

Watch and Reflect:

Watch The Present (2014):

Understanding Popular Culture Themes in The Present

• Defining popular culture: How do films reflect and critique the cultural norms and behaviours of their time?

• Video games as a dominant aspect of pop culture: The boy’s engagement with a war game reflects a broader societal trend where gaming is a common form of entertainment.

• War games and their psychological impact: These games often reinforce an us vs. them mentality. How does this influence the boy’s perception of the world and his initial rejection of the dog?

• Escapism and coping mechanisms: Video games can serve as a distraction or a way to avoid confronting personal struggles—does the boy use the game to numb himself emotionally?

Analyzing Storytelling and Audience Response

• Opening sequence and character introduction:

  • The boy is deeply engrossed in his game, uninterested in his mother’s presence.

  • What does this tell us about modern family dynamics and isolation in a digital age?

• The role of exposition and timing:

  • The audience initially reacts negatively to the boy rejecting the disabled dog.

  • As the film progresses, we gradually empathize with him—how does the structure of the narrative shape audience perception?

• Subverting expectations:

  • The film withholds key information about the boy’s own disability until later.

  • How does this shift in perspective create a moment of realization for both the audience and the protagonist?

Exploring Visual Techniques and Cinematic Language

• Framing and point of view:

  • The game screen (and the light it emits) is a dominant part of the mise-en-scène—what does this suggest about its role in the boy’s life?

  • The close-up of his face during the rejection of the dog emphasises his initial lack of empathy.

• Use of light and colour:

  • The contrast between the dark interior (where he plays) and the brightness outside—does this visually represent emotional detachment vs. engagement with the real world?

• Symbolism in movement:

  • The way the boy moves mirrors the dog’s struggle—what does this tell us about physical limitations and resilience?

Making Broader Connections to Pop Culture and Society

• How the film reflects attitudes toward disability:

  • Many people in society struggle with internalised ableism—how does this theme play out in the boy’s initial reaction?

  • The dog becomes a mirror for the protagonist, forcing him to confront his own self-perception.

• Social isolation and media consumption:

  • What does the boy’s detachment suggest about how modern children interact with the world?

  • How might video games, like alcohol or drugs, be used as an emotional escape?

• How should we respond to antisocial behavior?

  • People who appear cold or dismissive often have personal struggles—should we judge them, or seek to understand them?

  • How does the audience’s shift in perception parallel a broader call for empathy toward others in society?

Evaluating the Film’s Effectiveness

• Emotional engagement and storytelling techniques:

  • Why does the film succeed in making the audience feel first frustration, then empathy?

  • How do its minimalist dialogue and visual storytelling create a universal and relatable message?

• Does the film challenge or reinforce popular narratives?

  • Unlike many mainstream portrayals of disability, The Present does not treat it as a tragedy—instead, it’s part of life.

  • What impact does this have on audiences who may not have considered these perspectives before?

Watch Hair Love (2019):

Understanding the Theme and Context in Hair Love

• Hair as a cultural and pop culture symbol: The Afro hairstyle has historically represented Black identity and resistance, especially during the hippy movement and the Black Power era.

• Popular culture’s role in defining identity: Hair trends are shaped by and shape popular culture, reflecting political, social, and aesthetic movements.

Character Actions and Symbolism

• Dad’s reaction to hair accessories: He chooses a beanie instead of traditional hair accessories—what does this say about masculinity, gender roles, and pop culture consumerism?

• The girl using hair tools as weapons: This could symbolize a fight for self-expression and identity within the framework of pop culture. How does this reflect media portrayals of empowerment?

• Mother’s hair loss due to cancer: Beyond illness, her hair loss strips her of a key cultural and aesthetic identity. How does this reversal (daughter embracing her hair, mother losing hers) comment on change, resilience, and representation in popular culture?

Visual Techniques in Storytelling

• Color and texture: The rich, warm tones and soft textures of the animation emphasize warmth, tradition, and love.

• Camera angles and framing: Close-ups on the father’s struggle highlight his discomfort but also his determination—how does this align with storytelling techniques discussed in Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith?

• Editing and pacing: The rhythm of the film shifts with emotional beats—how does this technique support the themes?

Deeper Meanings and Pop Culture Connections

• Hair as a statement in pop culture: Different hairstyles signify different movements and historical contexts (e.g., the natural hair movement, hip-hop aesthetics).

• The mother wearing a beanie: How does this parallel the father’s choice and reinforce the idea that pop culture adapts to circumstances?

• Consumerism and gender roles: The hair accessories reflect beauty industry standards—how does this connect with wider pop culture expectations?

Conclusion: Linking Theory and Meaning

• Encoding/Decoding (Stuart Hall): How might different audiences interpret the film’s themes based on their cultural backgrounds?

• Representation and identity: How does Hair Love challenge or reinforce traditional narratives about Black identity in media?

• Final reflection: How does the film use storytelling and visual techniques to celebrate culture while engaging with broader themes in pop culture?

Write:

Prepare cheat notes, then spend 25 minutes writing a short answer essay on the following question. Submit your essay to an AI for feedback then discuss with your teacher.

Question: Discuss how themes of popular culture can be explored through storytelling and visual techniques.

Remember to support your response with specific examples from film(s) you have studied, and concepts from Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith.

Key Media Terminology

While writing your analysis, make sure to incorporate some of these terms:

• Mise-en-scène: How visual elements (e.g., props, costumes, and settings) contribute to meaning.

• Symbolic codes: Objects or visuals that represent deeper ideas (e.g., the dog’s disability in The Present).

• Conflict and resolution: The tension or problem in the story and how it is resolved.

• Theme: The overarching idea or message in the narrative.

• Representation: How people, cultures, and ideas are portrayed in the film.

One Way to Approach This Question

Exploring Popular Culture Themes

• Begin by defining popular culture and how it shapes and is shaped by media.

• Identify themes in Hair Love and/or The Present that connect to broader cultural narratives.

• Consider different interpretations—how might audiences from diverse backgrounds engage with these themes?

Choosing a Focus

• Select one or both films to analyse based on their connection to popular culture.

• Identify a key theme that interests you (e.g., self-expression, identity, family, resilience, acceptance).

• Think about how this theme is presented through storytelling and visual techniques.

Examining Storytelling and Visual Techniques

• Use specific examples to explore how the films communicate meaning.

• For Hair Love:

  • How does the father’s journey reflect cultural discussions about gender roles and identity?

  • What is the symbolic role of the mirror, hair tools, and beanie in conveying self-expression and heritage?

• For The Present:

  • How does the dog function as a metaphor for overcoming personal and societal challenges?

  • How do camera angles and pacing shape the emotional impact of the boy’s transformation?

Making Connections to Pop Culture

• Consider how these films relate to broader pop culture trends:

  • How does Hair Love align with the natural hair movement and changing beauty standards?

  • How does The Present challenge or reinforce common representations of disability and resilience in media?

• Explore audience reception:

  • How might different cultural groups interpret the themes differently?

  • How do these films engage with social media discourse, activism, or consumerism?

Evaluating the Impact

• Reflect on how well the films communicate their themes within a popular culture context.

• Consider:

  • Do they challenge or reinforce dominant cultural narratives?

  • How do they resonate with audiences across different cultural backgrounds?

  • Do they contribute to broader conversations about representation and inclusivity in media?

Explanation of Marking

Understanding of Popular Culture Themes (6 marks):

• 6 marks: Insightful explanation of how themes and techniques reflect popular culture. Strong use of examples and concepts.

• 5 marks: Clear explanation with good detail, though some areas may lack depth.

• 4 marks: Satisfactory understanding with basic connections between films and popular culture.

• 3–1 marks: Limited discussion with minimal reference to the films or concepts.

Use of Evidence (3 marks):

• 3 marks: Specific, detailed examples from both films, clearly tied to the analysis.

• 2 marks: Examples provided but lacking depth or connection.

• 1 mark: Minimal or poorly linked evidence.

Use of Media Terminology (2 marks):

• 2 marks: Consistent and accurate use of terms like mise-en-scène, theme, and representation.

• 1 mark: Basic or inconsistent use of terminology.

Additional Resources

Writing Support:

• Film Art: An Introduction by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith

• Example short answer response provided

Week 1: Short Answer Question and Sample Essay

Question:

How do themes and visual storytelling techniques in The Present (2014) and Hair Love (2019) reflect popular culture values? Use specific examples from each film to support your response.

Sample Essay (Annotated)

In both The Present (2014) by Jacob Frey and Hair Love (2019) by Matthew A. Cherry, themes of inclusion and overcoming challenges are central to their reflection of popular culture values. These short films use visual storytelling techniques, such as symbolic codes and mise-en-scène, to explore universal themes of acceptance, resilience, and family relationships. By appealing to broad audiences, the films highlight key aspects of popular culture: relatability and emotional resonance.

(Annotation: The introduction defines the key themes and visual techniques, referencing the films directly. It clearly outlines how the films reflect popular culture values, addressing the question while setting up the essay’s structure.)

The Present centers on a young boy who initially rejects a disabled puppy but gradually learns to accept the dog, mirroring his own disability. The theme of inclusion is reinforced through symbolic codes, such as the puppy’s missing leg, which represents resilience and strength. The film’s visual storytelling relies on the boy’s expressions and actions, such as his initial anger and eventual joy when playing with the dog, to convey his emotional journey. The mise-en-scène further supports this theme, with the boy’s cluttered living room reflecting his frustration and isolation at the start of the film. As he bonds with the dog, his physical movement within the space becomes more fluid, symbolizing his acceptance of himself and others. These techniques reflect popular culture’s emphasis on stories of personal growth and empathy.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes The Present, connecting its themes and techniques to popular culture values. Specific examples (e.g., the dog’s missing leg and mise-en-scène) support the argument, and key media terminology—symbolic codes, mise-en-scène—is used effectively.)

Similarly, Hair Love explores themes of identity and self-expression through a father’s efforts to style his daughter’s natural hair. The film celebrates Black culture by focusing on the symbolic importance of hair as a form of identity and pride. Visual storytelling techniques such as close-ups of the father’s hands struggling with the hair emphasize his determination and love for his daughter. The mise-en-scène reinforces cultural pride, with the living room and hair products depicted in warm, vibrant tones that reflect the family’s joy and resilience. Moreover, the emotional reveal of the mother’s cancer and her eventual pride in her daughter’s hairstyle highlights popular culture’s focus on family unity and overcoming adversity. Through its relatable and uplifting narrative, Hair Love exemplifies how visual storytelling can engage audiences and promote cultural appreciation.

(Annotation: This paragraph focuses on Hair Love, demonstrating a clear understanding of its themes and techniques. It provides specific evidence, such as close-ups and mise-en-scène, while connecting these to popular culture values. The analysis maintains a strong focus on the question.)

Both films effectively engage audiences by reflecting popular culture’s values of resilience, inclusion, and family. The Present appeals through its universal message of self-acceptance, while Hair Love highlights cultural identity and pride. By using symbolic codes and mise-en-scène to convey themes, the films connect with viewers emotionally and socially, showing how short films can resonate across diverse audiences. These techniques not only enhance storytelling but also reinforce the values that make popular culture both accessible and meaningful.

(Annotation: The conclusion summarizes the key points, linking the films’ techniques to their themes and audience engagement. It reiterates the connection to popular culture values, providing a strong and concise closing argument.)

Why This Essay Scores Highly

1. Understanding of Concepts (6 Marks):

   • The essay clearly identifies key themes (inclusion, identity, self-expression) and visual techniques (symbolic codes, mise-en-scène), linking them to popular culture values.

   • Each film is analyzed in detail, demonstrating insight into their emotional and cultural impact.

2. Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

   • Specific examples are drawn from both films, such as the puppy’s missing leg in The Present and the father’s hands in Hair Love. These examples are well-explained and relevant to the argument.

3. Media Terminology (2 Marks):

   • The essay consistently uses accurate media terminology, including symbolic codes, mise-en-scène, and visual storytelling, to enhance the analysis.

This sample essay models a strong, concise response that balances analytical depth with clarity, demonstrating how students can achieve high marks.

Week 2: Narrative Structures in Popular Culture – Short Film

Welcome to Week 2!

This week, we’ll examine how narrative structures shape the storytelling of short films. Through Purl (2018) by Pixar and The Most Beautiful Thing (2012) by Cameron Covell, a live-action short, you’ll explore how filmmakers create engaging narratives using conflict, causality, and resolution. You will also analyze how these films reflect or critique popular culture themes. This focus on live-action and animation will help you prepare for your own short film projects.

What Are Narrative Structures?

Narrative structures define how a story unfolds. Popular culture narratives are often constructed to engage audiences by:

• Conflict and resolution: Building tension around a central problem and resolving it in satisfying ways.

• Causality: Events are connected through cause-and-effect relationships, driving the story forward.

• Temporal order: Stories can be told linearly (chronological order) or non-linearly (e.g., flashbacks or fragmented storytelling).

By analysing these structures, you’ll see how filmmakers craft stories that resonate with their audiences.

Your Tasks This Week

Read:

1. Chapter 3: Narrative Form in Film Art.

   • Focus on:

     • How causality and time structure narratives.

     • How conflict and resolution function to engage audiences.

2. Supplementary Reading:

   • Explore online articles or teacher-provided materials on writing short film narratives.

Watch and Reflect:

• Watch Purl (2018):

Understanding Narrative Structures in Purl

• Defining narrative structures: How do classical and alternative storytelling structures engage audiences? (Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith)

• Pop culture and workplace narratives:

  • Purl reflects themes of workplace diversity, gender roles, and inclusion, which are dominant conversations in pop culture.

  • The all-male office environment mirrors real-world discussions around corporate culture, bro culture, and workplace discrimination.

• Three-act structure in Purl:

  • Act 1 – Introduction:

    • Purl enters the hyper-masculine finance world, bright and enthusiastic.

    • The use of colour immediately establishes contrast—Purl is vibrant and soft in an office of rigid, muted tones.

    • Initial rejection from male colleagues sets up the conflict.

  • Act 2 – Transformation and Conflict:

    • Purl changes her behaviour, mimicking the men’s attitudes and language (e.g., “finance can kiss our ass!”).

    • Symbolism of losing identity—she literally tightens her yarn, becoming more rigid, her original softness disappearing.

    • The film critiques the pressure to conform in workplace cultures, a relevant pop culture discussion on assimilation vs. authenticity.

  • Act 3 – Resolution and Change:

    • Purl realises she has betrayed her true self and decides to create space for others like her.

    • A new, diverse group (yarn of different colours) enters the workplace, symbolising a shift in corporate culture.

    • The story resolves with an inclusive environment, reinforcing the message that cultural shifts require both individual action and structural change.

Visual Techniques and Audience Engagement

• Colour as a storytelling device:

  • Purl’s bright pink hue vs. the grey, monotone office visually represents outsider status.

  • As she assimilates, she tightens and stiffens—what does this say about the pressure to blend in rather than stand out?

  • By the end, the office is more colourful, showing how narrative resolution is reinforced visually.

• Texture and movement:

  • The men are rigid, geometric, while Purl is soft, round, and bouncy—this physical contrast emphasizes the struggle of fitting in.

  • Her fluidity is compromised when she tries to conform, but is restored when she embraces her true self.

Relating Purl to Pop Culture and Narrative Conventions

• Workplace diversity in media:

  • Purl mirrors what some see as real-world narratives of women, and other minorities navigating corporate spaces.

  • How does this compare to pop culture portrayals in The Devil Wears Prada, Mad Men, or Suits?

• Themes of inclusion and representation:

  • In pop culture, there’s increasing awareness of gender biases in professional environments (e.g., #MeToo, discussions on “boy’s club” culture).

  • How does Purl simplify these issues into a universal, engaging narrative?

  • In the 2020s, are professional environments still completely male?  If not, how have things changed?

Audience Engagement and Emotional Connection

• Why do we relate to Purl?

  • Many have experienced outsider status in different environments—this emotional connection makes the story compelling.

  • The use of humor and exaggeration makes the serious theme approachable.

• Narrative expectations and payoff:

  • The classical structure (setup, conflict, resolution) provides satisfying character growth.

  • The audience’s expectations are met when Purl initiates change rather than simply accepting rejection or total assimilation.

Evaluating Narrative Effectiveness

• Does Purl successfully engage audiences?

  • It uses relatable conflicts, strong visual storytelling, and a clear message to resonate with viewers.

  • The short film format means every second matters, making its narrative structure efficient and engaging.

  • Its success in pop culture discourse suggests it effectively tackles social issues in an accessible way.

• Watch The Most Beautiful Thing (2012):

Understanding Narrative Structures in The Most Beautiful Thing

• Defining narrative structures:

  • How do classical and alternative narrative structures engage audiences? (Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith)

  • Does The Most Beautiful Thing follow a traditional three-act structure (setup, conflict, resolution) or a more unconventional approach?

• Pop culture setting and school life:

  • The film is set in a high school, a space deeply embedded in pop culture (teen movies, coming-of-age stories).

  • This familiarity helps audiences relate to the characters and themes of loneliness, love, and connection.

  • Background details, like students kissing in hallways and doodling pop culture references, reinforce the universal teenage experience.

How Narrative Engages the Audience

• Act 1 – Establishing the protagonist and his struggle:

  • Brandon is isolated—no friends, ignored by Emily, surrounded by a world that emphasizes connection and relationships.

  • The audience empathizes with him because the film uses visual cues (quiet, withdrawn body language, subtle framing).

  • His failed attempt to talk to Emily creates an early moment of rejection, establishing conflict.

• Act 2 – The turning point: Written communication

  • Emily and Brandon connect through writing, subverting expectations after their first awkward encounter.

  • Their relationship is built on non-verbal communication, making the film's storytelling unique and engaging.

  • This build-up of their bond engages the audience emotionally—small gestures, smiles, and shared drawings make the connection feel authentic.

• Act 3 – Climax and resolution

  • Building suspense:

    • Brandon’s nerves about asking Emily to prom—the classic teen rom-com moment.

    • He rehearses his question, a relatable moment of anticipation and self-doubt.

  • Misunderstanding and heartbreak:

    • Brandon sees another boy attempt to kiss Emily.

    • He misinterprets this moment and walks away before seeing Emily reject the other boy—a powerful use of dramatic irony.

  • Emotional payoff—Emily speaks:

    • The moment when Emily finally speaks is a narrative catharsis.

    • The audience has been conditioned to see their relationship as non-verbal, making her first spoken words deeply impactful.

    • It subverts expectations—the "silent girl" is not incapable of speech but chooses to speak when it matters most.

  • Resolution—Emotional closure:

    • Emily’s hug after Brandon asks her to prom solidifies their connection and brings emotional satisfaction to the audience.

    • The film leaves the audience with a sense of hope, transformation, and human connection.

Use of Narrative Techniques to Engage the Audience

• Dramatic irony:

  • The audience knows more than the protagonist at key moments, increasing engagement (e.g., Brandon doesn’t see Emily rejecting the other boy).

• Suspense and anticipation:

  • The promposal moment is drawn out with rehearsals and hesitation, making the final resolution more rewarding.

• Character development:

  • Brandon evolves from an isolated outsider to someone willing to take a social and emotional risk.

  • Emily, initially seen as cold or indifferent, is revealed to be guarded but deeply caring.

Pop Culture and the Coming-of-Age Narrative

• How does The Most Beautiful Thing fit into teen romance tropes?

  • Many high school romances in pop culture rely on misunderstandings, social struggles, and personal growth (**e.g., 10 Things I Hate About You, The Perks of Being a Wallflower).

  • The film plays with familiar tropes but makes them fresh through its unique narrative structure and emphasis on non-verbal communication.

• Representation and inclusivity:

  • The film challenges stereotypical portrayals of disability—Emily is independent, expressive, and not defined by her hearing impairment.

  • The narrative structure does not rely on pity but instead creates a compelling love story built on mutual understanding.

Evaluating Narrative Effectiveness

• Why does this narrative engage audiences?

  • The emotional arc is relatable—loneliness, first crushes, self-doubt, and miscommunication are universal experiences.

  • The film’s quiet, intimate moments allow the audience to deeply connect with the characters.

  • Its use of visual storytelling and minimal dialogue makes it accessible across cultures and languages, broadening its impact in global pop culture.

• Watch Selfies Gone Wrong (2015):

Understanding Narrative Structures in Selfies Gone Wrong

Defining Narrative Structures

How do classical and alternative narrative structures engage audiences? (Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith)

• Does Selfies Gone Wrong follow a traditional three-act structure (setup, conflict, resolution) or a more unconventional approach?

• The film aligns closely with classical narrative structure, using a gradual build-up of tension before a sudden, chilling twist.

Pop Culture, Technology, and Fear

• The film leverages smartphone culture and the selfie phenomenon, making it immediately relatable to modern audiences.

• Selfies are typically associated with vanity, self-expression, and digital identity, but here they become a tool of suspense and horror.

• The story plays on real-world fears: invasion of privacy, unseen threats, and digital artefacts revealing hidden truths.

How Narrative Engages the Audience

Act 1 – Establishing the protagonist and routine

• The film introduces a young woman engaging in an everyday activity—taking selfies.

• The audience connects with her casual confidence, as the scene is bright, warm, and familiar.

• This normalcy sets up audience expectations, making the later reveal more shocking.

• Her playful and carefree demeanour contrasts sharply with what’s about to unfold.

Act 2 – The unsettling discovery

• As she scrolls through her selfies, the mood shifts from lighthearted to unsettling.

• She notices a strange man lurking in the background of multiple photos.

• The film uses point-of-view (POV) shots of her phone screen, drawing the audience into her experience.

• Tension escalates as she checks earlier photos, realising the man has been closer each time.

• This moment engages the audience by making them an active participant—we, too, are scanning the images, mirroring her growing dread.

Act 3 – Climax and resolution

Building suspense:

• She takes a final selfie in her bedroom, believing she is safe.

• As she zooms in, she spots the figure inside her wardrobe, just behind her.

Horror payoff – The final reveal:

• The film likely ends abruptly, without showing what happens next, heightening fear and leaving the horror unresolved.

• This open-ended climax forces the audience to imagine the worst, making it psychologically unsettling.

Use of Narrative Techniques to Engage the Audience

Dramatic Irony and Suspense

• The audience discovers the hidden danger alongside the protagonist, creating empathetic horror.

• The film plays with slow realisation, delaying the moment of recognition for maximum impact.

Visual and Editing Techniques

• Shifting cinematography: Bright, casual framing transitions into tight, claustrophobic shots as the horror unfolds.

• Close-ups of her screen immerse the audience in the protagonist’s perspective, making them feel like they, too, are making the discovery.

• Silence or subtle ambient sound design can amplify tension before the final shocking moment.

Use of Technology as a Storytelling Device

• The phone, an everyday object, becomes a tool of horror rather than communication.

• Similar to films like Unfriended or The Ring, digital media serves as the medium through which horror manifests.

Pop Culture and the Digital Horror Genre

How Selfies Gone Wrong fits into modern horror trends

• The film subverts the social media obsession with self-image, turning it into a source of fear.

• Technology as a horror element is a growing trend in cinema (Host, Cam, Searching), where digital platforms serve as a gateway for terror.

• Unlike traditional horror, which relies on external threats (monsters, killers), this film exploits the fear of the unseen and unnoticed danger.

Representation and Relatability

• The protagonist is an everyday person doing something completely ordinary, making the film universally relatable.

• The lack of exposition or overt explanation strengthens immersion and fear, as audiences project their own experiences onto the scenario.

Evaluating Narrative Effectiveness

Why does this narrative engage audiences?

• The film’s structure plays on gradual dread rather than jump scares, making the horror feel psychological and lasting.

• The use of digital media as a horror device taps into modern fears about surveillance, privacy, and technology’s hidden dangers.

• The ending leaves the audience unsettled, as there is no clear resolution—the terror lingers beyond the screen.

In short, Selfies Gone Wrong is a minimalist but highly effective horror story that transforms a simple, everyday action into a nightmarish realisation—leaving audiences haunted by the idea that someone might be watching them, just outside their frame.

Reflection Questions:

1. How do the narrative structures of Purl and The Beautiful Thing create emotional engagement?

2. What popular culture themes are explored in these films, and how are they communicated to the audience?

3. How does Selfies Gone Wrong connect with a modern audience?

Write:

Prepare cheat notes, then spend 25 minutes writing a short-answer essay on the following question. Submit your essay to an AI for feedback, then discuss it with your teacher.

Question: Discuss how narrative structures engage audiences. 

Support your response with specific examples from at least one of the films you watched this week, and concepts from Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith.

Key Media Terminology

Use the following terms in your analysis:

• Conflict and resolution: Central tension and its resolution in the story.

• Causality: Cause-and-effect relationships that drive the narrative.

• Temporal order: The sequence in which events are presented.

• Mise-en-scène: How visual elements like setting and costume contribute to storytelling.

• Subversion: Challenging or flipping traditional genre expectations.

Here are some notes to help you with your answer.

Discussing Narrative Structures and Audience Engagement

Exploring Narrative Structures

Narrative structures shape audience engagement by establishing causality, conflict, and resolution in ways that create emotional investment. Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith highlights key narrative techniques such as causality (cause-and-effect relationships that drive the story), temporal order (the sequence of events), and subversion (challenging traditional genre expectations). Different types of structures—linear, non-linear, and circular narratives—influence audience expectations and engagement.

Three short films—Purl, The Most Beautiful Thing, and Selfies Gone Wrong—each utilize distinct narrative strategies to shape audience reactions. While Purl follows a classic three-act structure, The Most Beautiful Thing subverts expectations through dramatic irony, and Selfies Gone Wrong builds suspense through slow realisation and an unresolved climax.

Analysing Narrative Techniques

Purl: Assimilation and Identity in a Workplace Narrative

• Purl follows a clear three-act structure, where the protagonist’s desire for belonging drives the story forward.

• Conflict and resolution: The central tension revolves around Purl’s struggle to fit into a corporate environment that rejects her. She conforms, loses herself, and ultimately reclaims her individuality.

• Causality: Each action Purl takes leads to a direct reaction—when she assimilates, she is accepted; when she reclaims her identity, she changes the office culture.

• Mise-en-scène: The shift in color grading—from sterile corporate grays to warm tones as Purl asserts herself—visually reinforces the narrative transformation.

• Subversion: The film flips the traditional workplace comedy by using an animated yarn ball to critique corporate homogeneity and the pressure to conform.

The Most Beautiful Thing: Love, Miscommunication, and Emotional Payoff

• This film subverts traditional romance narratives by relying on miscommunication and dramatic irony rather than direct dialogue.

• Conflict and resolution: Brandon, an isolated high school student, misinterprets Emily’s actions, leading to emotional setbacks before the ultimate resolution.

• Causality: Every interaction builds toward the emotional climax—Brandon assumes rejection and withdraws, missing Emily’s true feelings.

• Temporal order: The linear structure emphasises slow emotional buildup, making the final reveal (Emily speaking) more impactful.

• Subversion: The silent girl trope is flipped—Emily’s silence isn’t due to inability but personal choice, making her decision to speak at the end incredibly powerful.

Selfies Gone Wrong: Digital Horror and Psychological Realisation

• Selfies Gone Wrong employs suspense through slow realisation, using digital media as both a tool for self-expression and a source of terror.

• Conflict and resolution: The protagonist’s initial carefree attitude is shattered when she discovers a man lurking in the background of her selfies, culminating in the terrifying final realisation.

• Causality: The cause-and-effect structure is subtle—each selfie brings her closer to the truth, building unease.

• Temporal order: The events unfold in a linear progression, but tension increases as the protagonist reviews past images, retroactively reinterpreting earlier moments.

• Mise-en-scène: Bright, warm lighting in the beginning contrasts with darker, claustrophobic framing toward the end, visually reinforcing the shift from normalcy to horror.

• Subversion: The film takes the common, everyday act of taking selfies and twists it into a horror narrative, preying on modern fears of digital surveillance and the unseen.

Making Connections to Pop Culture

Each of these films engages with themes prevalent in pop culture:

• Purl → Workplace inclusion, social assimilation, and corporate culture (similar to The Office or Silicon Valley).

• The Most Beautiful Thing → Teen romance, overcoming personal barriers, and self-doubt (similar to The Perks of Being a Wallflower or A Silent Voice).

• Selfies Gone Wrong → Digital horror, paranoia, and unseen threats (similar to Unfriended or Black Mirror).

Each film uses its narrative structure to either reinforce or challenge genre conventions, making them stand out within their respective themes.

Evaluating Narrative Effectiveness

These short films successfully engage audiences by using different narrative techniques:

1. Emotional investment – Purl and The Most Beautiful Thing build deep character arcs, while Selfies Gone Wrong relies on suspense and dread.

2. Subversion – Each film challenges expectations—Purl critiques assimilation, The Most Beautiful Thing redefines communication in romance, and Selfies Gone Wrong turns an everyday habit into a nightmare.

3. Visual storytelling over dialogue – The reliance on mise-en-scène, color shifts, and framing makes these films accessible to a global audience.

4. Broader social reflection – From workplace dynamics to high school romance and digital horror, these films encourage audiences to reflect on modern experiences and societal anxieties.

Through different yet equally compelling approaches, these films demonstrate how narrative structures shape audience engagement, emotional response, and thematic resonance.

Explanation of Marking

Understanding of Narrative Structures (6 marks):

• 6 marks: Insightful explanation of how narrative elements engage audiences. Strong use of examples and Film Art concepts.

• 5 marks: Clear explanation with good detail, though some areas may lack depth.

• 4 marks: Satisfactory understanding with basic connections between films and narrative structures.

• 3–1 marks: Limited discussion with minimal reference to the films or concepts.

Use of Evidence (3 marks):

• 3 marks: Specific, detailed examples from both films, clearly tied to the analysis.

• 2 marks: Examples provided but lacking depth or connection.

• 1 mark: Minimal or poorly linked evidence.

Use of Media Terminology (2 marks):

• 2 marks: Consistent and accurate use of terms like conflict, resolution, and mise-en-scène.

• 1 mark: Basic or inconsistent use of terminology.

Additional Resources

Films Studied:

• Purl (Kristen Lester, 2018)

• The Most Beautiful Thing (Cameron Covell, 2012)

Writing Support:

• Film Art: An Introduction by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith

• Example short answer responses provided in class.

Week 2: Short Answer Question and Sample Essay

Question:

How do narrative structures in Purl (2018) and The Most Beautiful Thing (2012) engage audiences through conflict, resolution, and genre conventions? Use specific examples from each film to support your response.

Essay

Both Purl (2018) by Kristen Lester and The Most Beautiful Thing (2012) by Cameron Covell engage audiences by using narrative structures that develop conflict, causality, and resolution in ways that evoke emotional connections. While Purl follows a three-act structure to explore themes of workplace inclusion, The Most Beautiful Thing adopts a coming-of-age romance structure, using dramatic irony and non-verbal communication to engage audiences. By aligning their narratives with recognizable genre conventions, both films create satisfying and emotionally resonant experiences.

(Annotation: The introduction clearly defines the key concepts—narrative structure, conflict, resolution, and genre conventions—and sets up a comparative discussion between the two films.)

In Purl, the conflict arises when the protagonist, a bright pink ball of yarn, enters a hyper-masculine office environment and struggles to fit in. The causality is evident as Purl’s rejection by her colleagues motivates her transformation, leading her to change her behavior to gain acceptance. This aligns with the common workplace narrative in popular culture, where outsiders feel pressured to conform. The film follows a linear structure, with Act 1 establishing the problem, Act 2 showing the protagonist's transformation, and Act 3 resolving the conflict when Purl embraces her individuality and helps create a more inclusive workplace. The resolution is reinforced visually—by the end, the office is more colorful, reflecting a shift in corporate culture. The dominant reading of Purl supports workplace diversity, while a negotiated reading might see it as oversimplifying real-world workplace discrimination.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes Purl’s narrative structure, using clear examples of conflict, causality, and resolution. It also incorporates audience interpretation, showing how different viewers might respond to the film’s message.)

In contrast, The Most Beautiful Thing follows a romantic coming-of-age structure, engaging audiences through the protagonist’s emotional journey. The film’s conflict is established in the first act, as Brandon, a shy high school student, struggles with loneliness and unrequited affection. The turning point occurs when he connects with Emily, a deaf girl, through written notes. Unlike Purl, this film builds suspense through dramatic irony—the audience understands Emily’s feelings before Brandon does, which heightens emotional engagement. The climax occurs when Brandon misinterprets a situation, believing Emily is interested in someone else, leading to a moment of heartbreak. However, the resolution provides emotional satisfaction, as Emily speaks for the first time, signifying her deep connection with Brandon. This non-verbal storytelling keeps the audience invested, reflecting genre conventions of high school romance narratives where self-discovery and emotional growth drive the resolution.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes The Most Beautiful Thing’s narrative structure, focusing on dramatic irony and emotional buildup. It highlights the contrast between its structure and Purl’s, showing how different genres use storytelling to engage audiences.)

Both films successfully engage audiences by using conflict and resolution to evoke emotional connections. Purl follows a workplace comedy structure, using humor and visual symbolism to critique assimilation in corporate culture, while The Most Beautiful Thing employs romantic drama conventions, relying on miscommunication and suspense to create emotional payoff. Their effective use of narrative structure, conflict, and resolution ensures that audiences remain engaged, whether through humor and social commentary or emotional depth and dramatic irony.

(Annotation: The conclusion summarizes the key points, reinforcing the films’ different but equally effective uses of narrative structure to engage audiences.)

Why This Essay Scores Highly

1. Understanding of Narrative Structures (6 Marks):

• Clearly explains how conflict, causality, and resolution drive engagement in both films.

• Demonstrates knowledge of linear vs. emotional storytelling structures in different genres.

• Highlights genre conventions and how they shape audience expectations.

2. Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• Specific examples from both films (e.g., Purl’s transformation, Emily’s first spoken words).

• References to visual storytelling (e.g., color shifts in Purl, dramatic irony in The Most Beautiful Thing).

3. Use of Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• Accurate use of terms like three-act structure, dramatic irony, linear narrative, conflict, resolution, and genre conventions.

Welcome to Week 3!

This week, we’ll explore how filmmakers use codes and conventions to engage audiences and reinforce genre expectations. By analyzing The Most Beautiful Thing (2012) by Cameron Covell and Gift (2010) by Daniel Yam, we’ll examine how live-action short films engage with familiar genre tropes while delivering meaningful themes. Understanding how codes and conventions operate within genre storytelling will help you identify strategies you can use in your own production work.

What Are Codes, Conventions, and Genre?

Codes are systems of signs used to communicate meaning. They include:

• Technical codes: Camera work, lighting, sound, and editing.

• Symbolic codes: Mise-en-scène elements like costumes, props, body language, and color.

Conventions are the recurring techniques or patterns audiences expect within a genre, such as miscommunication in romance films or emotional climaxes in dramas.

Genre refers to a category of storytelling (e.g., drama, comedy) that uses specific conventions to shape audience expectations and engagement.

Short films balance audience expectations with creative innovations to surprise and engage viewers.

Your Tasks This Week

Read:

• Chapter 4: The Shot – Mise-en-Scène in Film Art.

  • Focus on how visual elements contribute to genre-specific storytelling.

• Chapter 10: Film Genres in Film Art.

  • Pay attention to:

    • How conventions establish audience expectations.

    • How genres evolve through subversion or hybridization.

Watch and Reflect:

Watch The Most Beautiful Thing (2012)

Genre: Romance / Coming-of-Age Drama

Key Genre Conventions:

• Themes of love, isolation, and self-discovery are central to the coming-of-age genre.

• The high school setting, first crush, and nervous social interactions are familiar elements in teen romance films.

• The use of misunderstanding and emotional climax to create engagement.

Symbolic and Technical Codes:

• Lighting: Soft, natural lighting enhances the film’s intimate and heartfelt tone.

• Props: Notes and writing as tools of communication emphasize the connection between the two protagonists.

• Framing and Camera Work: Close-ups and lingering shots on facial expressions build emotional depth.

Watch Gift (2010)

Genre: Family Drama

Key Genre Conventions:

• Family dramas often focus on emotional relationships, sacrifice, and moral lessons.

• The narrative builds towards an emotional revelation that deepens audience connection.

Symbolic and Technical Codes:

• Props: The father’s wallet symbolizes financial burden and sacrifice.

• Lighting: Soft, warm lighting reinforces themes of nostalgia and love.

• Music: An emotive score enhances audience investment in the father’s struggles.

Reflection Questions:

• How do genre conventions shape audience expectations in The Most Beautiful Thing or Gift?

• How do technical and symbolic codes (e.g., mise-en-scène, props, lighting) contribute to the emotional impact of the film?

• How does the film balance audience expectations with creative innovations to tell a compelling story?

• If analyzing both films, what are the similarities and differences in their use of genre conventions?

Write:

Spend 25 minutes writing a response to the following question. Submit your response to an AI or teacher for feedback.

Question: How do codes, conventions, and genre contribute to audience engagement in a short film? Use specific examples from either The Most Beautiful Thing or Gift to support your analysis. If relevant, you may compare and contrast the two films.

Key Media Terminology

Incorporate the following terms into your analysis:

• Technical codes: Lighting, sound, and camera techniques.

• Symbolic codes: Mise-en-scène elements like costumes, props, and color.

• Genre conventions: Recurring patterns or tropes within a specific genre.

• Subversion: Breaking or challenging traditional expectations within a genre.

• Framing: How the camera’s composition shapes meaning and directs audience focus.

How to Approach This Question

Define Codes, Conventions, and Genre

• Start with a brief definition of these key terms and how they contribute to audience engagement.

• Use examples from Film Art to clarify how codes and conventions work within genres.

Provide an Overview of the Film(s)

• If choosing one film, introduce its title, director, year of release, and genre.

• If comparing both films, briefly outline their key genre characteristics.

Analyze Codes, Conventions, and Genre

• Highlight how the film you chose uses mise-en-scène, narrative structure, and genre expectations to engage audiences.

• Discuss how symbolic and technical codes contribute to the storytelling and emotional impact.

• If comparing films, consider how they use genre conventions similarly or differently.

Conclude with Evaluation

• Reflect on how the film successfully balances audience expectations and creativity to engage viewers.

Explanation of Marking

Understanding of Codes, Conventions, and Genre (6 Marks):

• 6 marks: Insightful explanation of how codes and conventions contribute to audience engagement. Strong examples from the film(s).

• 5 marks: Clear and detailed explanation with some minor gaps in depth.

• 4 marks: Satisfactory understanding with basic connections between examples and concepts.

• 3–1 marks: Limited discussion with minimal reference to film(s) or concepts.

Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• 3 marks: Specific, detailed examples from the film(s), clearly linked to the analysis.

• 2 marks: Examples provided but lacking depth or connection.

• 1 mark: Minimal or poorly linked evidence.

Use of Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• 2 marks: Consistent and accurate use of terms like mise-en-scène, genre conventions, and subversion.

• 1 mark: Basic or inconsistent use of terminology.

Short Film Narrative Templates for Student Productions

These templates provide structured narrative blueprints based on Purl, The Most Beautiful Thing, and Selfies Gone Wrong. They are designed to help you focus on camera techniques and post-production skills while working within a clear, adaptable framework.

1. Assimilation & Identity Template (Inspired by Purl)

Genre: Workplace drama, social commentary, light satire
Theme: Fitting in vs. staying true to oneself
Structure: Three-act structure with transformation arc

Breakdown

Act 1 – Introduction to the Outsider

• A newcomer enters an unfamiliar environment (e.g., a new student at school, a new employee, an athlete joining a new team).

• They quickly realise they don’t quite fit in—peers have different behaviors, social codes, or unspoken rules.

• They attempt to conform to these new norms, changing their appearance, speech, or habits.

• Cinematography: Bright, wide shots emphasise isolation; over-the-shoulder shots put the audience in their perspective.

Act 2 – Conflict and Conformity

• The protagonist adapts and gains acceptance, but at a personal cost (losing their uniqueness, adopting harmful behaviours, etc.).

• They mimic others, but small cracks start appearing—hesitation, discomfort, moments of regret.

• A turning point occurs: they either witness someone else struggling with the same pressures or realise they are losing themselves.

• Editing & Sound Design: Gradual colour desaturation as they conform; use of background noise vs. silence to emphasise alienation.

Act 3 – Reclaiming Identity

• The protagonist makes a choice—they reject complete conformity and assert their true self.

• This could lead to either resolution or confrontation (acceptance by peers OR standing alone but empowered).

• Cinematography: Framing changes—tighter shots during conflict, then wider shots as they reclaim space.

• Final moment: Either a symbolic act of self-expression (changing their outfit, undoing a forced habit) or a moment of camaraderie (inspiring others to be themselves).

Adaptations:

• Workplace → New employee in a rigid corporate setting.

• School → Student trying to fit into a niche clique.

• Sports → Athlete pressured to abandon their own style to follow a rigid team system.

2. Unspoken Connection Template (Inspired by The Most Beautiful Thing)

Genre: Drama, romance, emotional storytelling
Theme: Communication, overcoming personal barriers, connection through action rather than words
Structure: Slow-build linear narrative with dramatic irony

Breakdown

Act 1 – The Isolated Protagonist

• The protagonist feels disconnected from those around them (e.g., social anxiety, different interests, language barrier).

• They observe others effortlessly communicating and wish to be part of it.

• A potential connection emerges, but it is hindered by an internal or external obstacle.

• Cinematography: Lots of medium and close-up shots to capture expressions; static frames to emphasize isolation.

Act 2 – Building Connection in an Unconventional Way

• Instead of direct communication, they find an alternative method to interact (e.g., notes, shared art, silent actions).

• The audience knows more than the protagonist at key moments—misunderstandings and near-misses build tension.

• Just as things seem to be improving, a setback occurs—an assumption, an external interruption, a misread situation.

• Editing: Longer takes and soft fades for growing connection; sharp cuts and silence for setbacks.

Act 3 – Emotional Climax & Resolution

• A moment of revelation occurs—either the protagonist takes a risk, or the other person makes the final move.

• The audience finally sees a moment of true understanding between them.

• The film doesn’t need dialogue—body language, action, and cinematography provide emotional payoff.

• Final moment: Could be a simple touch, smile, or shared action that confirms the connection.

Adaptations:

• Romance → Two people communicate without words, leading to an emotional breakthrough.

• Friendship → A lonely individual finds a new friend in an unexpected way.

• Family drama → Parent and child reconnect through non-verbal gestures.

3. Suspense & Realisation Template (Inspired by Selfies Gone Wrong)

Genre: Thriller, horror, suspense
Theme: Unseen dangers, slow realisation, psychological fear
Structure: Linear build-up with shocking final reveal

Breakdown

Act 1 – Ordinary Routine, Hidden Threats

• The protagonist goes about their normal day, feeling safe.

• Small details hint at something being ‘off’, but they don’t notice (e.g., an unnoticed shadow in the background, objects slightly out of place).

• Cinematography: Steady shots, symmetrical framing to give a false sense of security.

Act 2 – Discovery & Suspense

• The protagonist starts to notice something unusual (e.g., reviewing old footage, realising something was present all along).

• Each revelation escalates the tension—the evidence becomes clearer, but they still can’t fully process it.

• The realisation triggers fear, but they try to rationalise it.

• Editing & Sound Design: Slow zoom-ins, distant muffled sounds, minimal dialogue—building paranoia through subtle clues.

Act 3 – The Final Reveal & Abrupt End

• Just as they piece everything together, they realise they are not alone.

• The final shot delivers the horror payoff—the danger is closer than they thought (someone is in the house, an unseen force is behind them).

• Editing & Cinematography: Sudden hard cut to black or freeze frame, leaving the audience unsettled.

Adaptations:

• Supernatural horror → The protagonist unknowingly interacts with a ghostly presence.

• Mystery/thriller → They uncover evidence of being watched.

• Sci-fi horror → They notice reality glitches around them, hinting at an altered perception.

How to Use These Templates

• Encourage students to swap settings, themes, or characters while keeping the structure intact.

• Focus on camera techniques and editing—each template offers opportunities to practice:

  • Assimilation & Identity → Colour grading, framing shifts.

  • Unspoken Connection → Close-ups, naturalistic pacing.

  • Suspense & Realisation → Slow zooms, match cuts, sound design.

• Have students reflect on their choices—what do small details add to their story?

• Allow post-production experimentation—different music, pacing, and cuts can shift tone entirely.

By following these blueprints, students can refine their filmmaking skills while working within engaging and effective narrative structures!

Sample Essay for Week 3

Question:
How do codes, conventions, and genre contribute to audience engagement? Use specific examples from one or both films to support your analysis.

Essay

Both The Most Beautiful Thing (2012) by Cameron Covell and Gift (2010) by Daniel Yam effectively use codes, conventions, and genre to engage audiences. While The Most Beautiful Thing follows the conventions of a coming-of-age romance, using symbolic and technical codes to create an emotional connection, Gift employs the familiar tropes of family drama to explore themes of sacrifice and love. These films demonstrate how codes and conventions shape audience expectations and enhance storytelling, whether by reinforcing or subtly challenging genre norms.

(Annotation: The introduction directly addresses the question, outlining how codes, conventions, and genre function in each film. It contrasts the romantic storytelling of The Most Beautiful Thing with the emotional realism of Gift.)

In The Most Beautiful Thing, Covell utilizes key conventions of the romance and coming-of-age genres to immerse audiences in the protagonist’s emotional journey. The film follows a high school student, Brandon, who experiences social isolation until he finds an unexpected connection with Emily. The mise-en-scène reinforces this theme, with subdued lighting and close-up shots emphasizing Brandon’s initial loneliness. As the bond between the two characters develops, symbolic codes such as written notes become central to their communication, creating a unique visual storytelling device. The use of dramatic irony, where Brandon misinterprets a situation and assumes rejection, heightens audience engagement by generating emotional investment. This classic narrative structure—introduction, misunderstanding, and resolution—aligns with audience expectations, making the film both relatable and compelling.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes The Most Beautiful Thing, focusing on how symbolic codes, mise-en-scène, and narrative conventions contribute to audience engagement. It explains how the film aligns with genre expectations while also using visual storytelling in a unique way.)

In contrast, Gift relies on the conventions of family drama to evoke emotional engagement through themes of sacrifice and gratitude. The film follows a father who, despite financial struggles, prioritizes his son’s happiness. Symbolic codes, such as the father’s wallet, emphasize the burden of his sacrifices, while the mise-en-scène uses warm lighting to convey nostalgia and love. The film’s final reveal, where the son realizes the depth of his father’s devotion, serves as the emotional climax, aligning with the genre’s convention of a cathartic resolution. Non-diegetic music further amplifies the emotional weight of the moment, guiding audience response. Unlike The Most Beautiful Thing, which plays with miscommunication to build tension, Gift follows a more linear and predictable emotional journey, relying on universal themes to engage viewers.

(Annotation: This paragraph explores how Gift employs symbolic and technical codes to create an emotional impact. It contrasts Gift’s straightforward storytelling with the more nuanced tension in The Most Beautiful Thing.)

Both films successfully engage audiences by utilizing genre conventions and creative storytelling techniques. The Most Beautiful Thing entertains through its heartfelt portrayal of young love, employing dramatic irony and visual symbolism to heighten emotional stakes. Gift, on the other hand, resonates with viewers by adhering to the family drama’s conventional emotional arc, emphasizing sacrifice and appreciation. Whether through subverting expectations or embracing traditional narrative structures, these films demonstrate the power of codes and conventions in shaping audience experience.

(Annotation: The conclusion summarizes the analysis, reinforcing how both films engage audiences through genre conventions and codes. It acknowledges their differences while emphasizing their effectiveness in storytelling.)

Why This Essay Scores Highly

1. Understanding of Concepts (6 Marks):

• The essay clearly explains how codes, conventions, and genre contribute to audience engagement, demonstrating a deep understanding of film techniques.

• It contrasts the romantic storytelling of The Most Beautiful Thing with the emotional realism of Gift, addressing the question thoroughly.

2. Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• Specific examples are provided, such as Brandon’s misinterpretation in The Most Beautiful Thing and the symbolic importance of the wallet in Gift.

• Each example is well-explained and directly linked to audience engagement.

3. Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• Terms like mise-en-scène, symbolic codes, non-diegetic music, and genre conventions are used accurately and effectively to enhance the analysis.

Week 4: Audience and Representation in Popular Culture – Short Film and Advertisement

Welcome to Week 4!

This week, we will investigate representation and how it shapes audience engagement with media. By analyzing Hair Love (2019), The Present (2014), and Gillette’s The Best Men Can Be advertisement (2019), we will examine how media portray people, ideas, and societal values. We’ll explore how different audiences interpret these representations and how filmmakers or companies use symbolic codes to connect with—or alienate—viewers. These insights will also inform your own creative decisions for your short film projects.

What Are Audience and Representation?

• Representation involves how media portray:

  • People and groups: Such as gender, race, or ability.

  • Ideas: Like masculinity, inclusion, or resilience.

  • Societal values: Norms, ethics, or challenges to them.

• Audience interpretation varies based on cultural, social, and personal contexts:

  • Dominant reading: Accepting the intended meaning.

  • Negotiated reading: Agreeing with some aspects, but rejecting others.

  • Oppositional reading: Rejecting the intended meaning entirely.

Your Tasks This Week

Read:

1. Chapter 11: Ideology in Film Art.

   • Focus on:

     • How media reflect or challenge societal values.

     • How audiences interpret media differently based on their own contexts.

2. Supplementary Reading:

   • Articles or teacher-provided materials about controversial media and audience backlash (e.g., reactions to the Gillette ad).

Watch and Reflect:

1. Watch Hair Love (2019):

   • Analyze how the short film celebrates Black culture and subverts stereotypes about Black fatherhood.

   • Focus on:

     • Symbolic codes like hair and mirrors to reinforce themes of identity and pride.

     • Emotional techniques used to engage a wide audience.

2. Watch The Present (2014):

   • Examine how the film represents resilience and disability through the boy and his dog.

   • Focus on:

     • Symbolic codes (e.g., the puppy’s missing leg as a metaphor for strength).

     • How the narrative builds empathy and encourages inclusion.

3. Watch Gillette’s The Best Men Can Be Advertisement (2019):

   • Analyze how the ad critiques toxic masculinity and promotes “better” models of male behavior.

   • Focus on:

     • The use of stereotypes and how they are challenged or reinforced.

     • Why the ad sparked backlash, with some audiences rejecting its representation of men as overly negative.

   • Consider:

     • How symbolic codes (e.g., the "boys will be boys" barbecue scene) and sound (e.g., voiceover) contribute to the ad’s meaning.

Reflection Questions:

1. How do Hair Love, The Present, and the Gillette ad construct representations to reflect societal values?

2. How might different audiences interpret these media pieces based on their cultural or personal contexts?

3. Why did the Gillette ad provoke such a strong backlash, and what does this reveal about representation and audience?

Write:

Spend 25 minutes crafting a response to the following question. Submit your response to an AI or teacher for feedback.

Question: How do Hair Love, The Present, and the Gillette ad construct representation, and how might different audiences interpret these messages? Use specific examples from all three media to support your analysis.

Key Media Terminology

Use the following terms in your analysis:

1. Representation: The portrayal of people, ideas, or societal values in media.

2. Stereotypes: Simplified or generalized portrayals of groups or ideas.

3. Symbolic codes: Visual elements like props, costumes, or settings that communicate deeper meanings.

4. Dominant/Negotiated/Oppositional Readings: How audiences interpret media based on their contexts.

5. Subversion: Challenging or reinterpreting traditional stereotypes or norms.

How to Approach This Question

1. Define Representation and Audience Interpretation

   • Start by defining representation and audience interpretation, referencing Film Art concepts like dominant, negotiated, and oppositional readings.

2. Provide an Overview of Each Media Piece

   • For Hair Love:

     • Title, director, and year of release.

     • Themes: Family, identity, and cultural pride.

     • Representation: Positive portrayal of Black fatherhood and culture.

   • For The Present:

     • Title, director, and year of release.

     • Themes: Resilience and inclusion.

     • Representation: Disability portrayed as a strength and a means to connect.

   • For the Gillette ad:

     • Title, company, and year of release.

     • Themes: Challenging toxic masculinity.

     • Representation: Men shown as needing to reject harmful behaviors in favor of positive change.

3. Analyze Representation in Each Media

   • Use specific examples to:

     • Discuss how Hair Love uses symbolic codes like mirrors and hair to celebrate Black culture and subvert stereotypes.

     • Examine how The Present uses symbolic codes like the puppy’s missing leg to communicate themes of strength and inclusion.

     • Analyze how the Gillette ad uses stereotypes (e.g., the "boys will be boys" phrase) to critique toxic masculinity and promote a more positive ideal.

   • Highlight how these representations align with—or challenge—societal norms.

4. Link Representation to Audience Engagement

   • Explore how different audiences interpret these media pieces:

     • How might Black audiences connect with Hair Love’s representation of cultural pride?

     • How might individuals with disabilities resonate with The Present’s theme of resilience?

     • Why did the Gillette ad provoke an oppositional reading among some men who felt misrepresented?

5. Conclude with Evaluation

   • Reflect on how each media piece’s representations engage audiences and promote—or challenge—popular societal values.

Explanation of Marking

Understanding of Representation and Audience (6 Marks):

• 6 marks: Insightful explanation of how each media piece constructs representation and engages audiences. Strong examples and clear connections to societal values.

• 5 marks: Clear and detailed explanation with minor gaps in depth.

• 4 marks: Satisfactory understanding with basic connections between representation and audience.

• 3–1 marks: Limited discussion with minimal reference to media or concepts.

Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• 3 marks: Specific, detailed examples from all three media pieces, clearly linked to the analysis.

• 2 marks: Examples provided but lacking depth or connection.

• 1 mark: Minimal or poorly linked evidence.

Use of Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• 2 marks: Consistent and accurate use of terms like representation, symbolic codes, stereotypes, and audience readings.

• 1 mark: Basic or inconsistent use of terminology.

Additional Resources

Media Studied:

• Hair Love (Matthew A. Cherry, 2019)

• The Present (Jacob Frey, 2014)

• Gillette’s The Best Men Can Be Advertisement (2019)

Writing Support:

• Film Art: An Introduction by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith

• Example short answer responses provided in class.

Sample Essay for Week 4

Question:

How do Hair Love, The Present, and the Gillette ad construct representation, and how might different audiences interpret these messages? Use specific examples from all three media to support your analysis.

Essay

Hair Love (2019), The Present (2014), and Gillette’s The Best Men Can Be (2019) construct representation by addressing societal values like inclusion, resilience, and masculinity. Through symbolic codes and carefully crafted portrayals, each piece reflects or challenges cultural norms. However, audience interpretations of these representations can vary depending on personal, social, or cultural contexts, ranging from dominant to oppositional readings.

(Annotation: The introduction clearly outlines the essay’s focus on representation and audience interpretation. It sets up the analysis by referencing the three media pieces and their societal themes.)

In Hair Love, representation centers on celebrating Black culture and subverting stereotypes about Black fatherhood. The film uses symbolic codes such as hair to signify identity and pride, emphasizing its cultural importance. For example, the father’s determination to style his daughter’s hair portrays him as nurturing and patient, countering negative stereotypes of Black fathers as absent or uninvolved. The mise-en-scène, including vibrant colors and culturally specific props like hair products, reinforces a sense of joy and family unity. For many audiences, particularly Black viewers, the film offers a dominant reading of empowerment and cultural pride. However, viewers unfamiliar with the cultural significance of Black hair might interpret the film more broadly as a story of parental love and perseverance, creating a negotiated reading.

(Annotation: This paragraph focuses on Hair Love, providing specific examples of symbolic codes and mise-en-scène. It demonstrates how the film constructs positive representation and engages audiences through dominant and negotiated readings.)

The Present constructs representation through its portrayal of disability as a source of strength and connection. The puppy’s missing leg symbolizes resilience, encouraging the boy to accept his own disability. Symbolic codes, such as the boy’s crutches and his eventual joy in playing with the puppy, highlight themes of inclusion and self-acceptance. The narrative’s emotional progression, from rejection to joy, reinforces these values, engaging audiences with a universal message of overcoming adversity. For most viewers, the film’s dominant reading promotes empathy and inclusivity. However, some audiences might interpret the film as oversimplifying the challenges of disability, creating a negotiated reading. Despite this, The Present effectively uses symbolic codes and narrative structure to foster a positive representation of disability.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes The Present by exploring its symbolic codes and universal themes of inclusion. It examines both dominant and negotiated audience readings, offering a nuanced perspective.)

The Gillette ad critiques toxic masculinity by depicting harmful male behaviors as normalized and endorsed by society. For example, the ad uses the phrase “boys will be boys” during a scene where adult men passively observe boys fighting at a barbecue. This phrase, paired with the adults’ indifferent expressions, represents societal complacency in excusing aggression as natural male behavior. The ad’s resolution, however, shifts to a more hopeful representation of masculinity, showing men intervening to stop bullying and harassment. These contrasting portrayals create opportunities for dominant and oppositional readings. Many viewers interpret the ad’s dominant reading as a progressive call for men to challenge toxic behaviors and embrace accountability. However, some audiences, particularly men who felt unfairly generalized by the ad, produced oppositional readings, rejecting its message as overly critical or alienating. The backlash highlights how representation, especially in advertisements, can polarize audiences by challenging deeply ingrained societal norms.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes the Gillette ad, focusing on the use of symbolic codes like the “boys will be boys” phrase to represent societal complacency. It explores the ad’s resolution and the contrasting audience responses, offering insight into dominant and oppositional readings.)

Together, these three media pieces showcase the power of representation to engage and challenge audiences. Hair Love inspires cultural pride and subverts stereotypes, The Present fosters empathy and inclusivity, and the Gillette ad critiques toxic masculinity while sparking debate. Each piece relies on symbolic codes and narrative techniques to construct meaningful portrayals, but audience interpretations vary based on cultural and personal contexts. By understanding these dynamics, filmmakers and media producers can create works that resonate widely, while recognizing the potential for diverse responses.

(Annotation: The conclusion ties the analysis together, summarizing how the three media pieces construct representation and elicit varied audience interpretations. It reflects on their broader societal impact and audience engagement.)

Why This Essay Scores Highly

1. Understanding of Representation and Audience (6 Marks):

• The essay provides clear and insightful analysis of how each media piece constructs representation and engages audiences.

• It demonstrates depth in explaining dominant, negotiated, and oppositional readings, particularly for the Gillette ad.

2. Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• Specific examples are provided for all three media pieces:

  • Hair Love: Hair as a symbol of pride and the father’s nurturing role.

  • The Present: The puppy’s missing leg as a metaphor for resilience.

  • Gillette ad: The “boys will be boys” barbecue scene and the shift to positive portrayals of masculinity.

• Each example is clearly explained and tied to the analysis.

3. Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• Terms like symbolic codes, mise-en-scène, dominant reading, negotiated reading, and oppositional reading are used accurately and effectively.

• The terminology is seamlessly integrated into the discussion, enhancing the analysis.

Week 5: Ideology and Values in Popular Culture – Short Film

Welcome to Week 5!

This week, we’ll examine how films reflect or challenge societal ideologies and values through the representation of themes and characters. You’ll analyze short films like For the Birds (2000) by Pixar and Purl (2018) by Kristen Lester to explore how these works encode values and beliefs for audience interpretation. You will also develop your fifth practice essay, synthesizing your skills in media analysis.

What Are Ideology and Values in Media?

Ideology refers to the system of ideas, values, and beliefs that are embedded in media texts.

Values are the attitudes or principles communicated by a media work, often reflecting societal norms, ethics, or challenges to them.

Filmmakers use representation, narrative, and symbolic codes to align their work with dominant, oppositional, or negotiated readings of ideology:

• Dominant reading: Reinforces prevailing societal norms and beliefs.

• Oppositional reading: Challenges or critiques the dominant ideology.

• Negotiated reading: Balances between reinforcement and critique.

To explore these ideas further, refer to:

• Chapter 11: Ideology in Film Art – Learn how films can reflect or challenge societal ideologies.

• Chapter 9: Film Style in Practice – Understand how visual and auditory style reinforces ideological messages.

Your Tasks This Week

Read:

• Chapter 11: Ideology in Film Art.

  • Focus on how media works encode values and beliefs.

  • Explore how audience context influences interpretation (dominant, oppositional, or negotiated readings).

• Chapter 9: Film Style in Practice.

  • Pay attention to how cinematography, editing, and sound reinforce ideological messages.

Watch and Reflect:

Watch For the Birds (2000):

• Analyze how this short film critiques bullying and exclusion.

• Pay attention to:

  • Symbolic codes (e.g., the small birds vs. the large bird as representations of social dynamics).

  • How the film uses humor and visual exaggeration to critique societal behaviors.

Watch Purl (2018):

• Examine how the film represents workplace culture and gender inclusivity.

• Focus on:

  • The ways the film critiques traditional corporate environments.

  • How mise-en-scène, character design, and narrative structure reinforce themes of inclusion and conformity.

  • Consideration of how some of the values represented may now feel somewhat dated, as workplaces have made progress in diversity and inclusion since the film's release.

Reflection Questions:

• What ideologies and values are encoded in For the Birds and Purl?

• How do the films reinforce or challenge societal norms through narrative and representation?

• How do visual and auditory techniques communicate ideological meaning?

• In what ways might audience reception vary depending on cultural or historical context?

Write:

Spend 25 minutes crafting a short-answer response to the following question. Submit your work to an AI tool for feedback or discuss it with your teacher to refine your skills.

Question: Discuss how societal ideologies and values can be challenged through film. Use specific examples from one or both films and refer to Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith.

Key Media Terminology

Use the following terms in your analysis:

• Ideology: The system of values and beliefs embedded in a media work.

• Dominant/oppositional/negotiated readings: How audiences interpret ideological messages.

• Symbolic codes: Visual elements like props, costumes, and settings that communicate meaning.

• Mise-en-scène: How visual arrangement conveys values and context.

• Subversion: Challenging established conventions to offer a new perspective.

How to Approach This Question

• Define ideology and values in the context of media, referring to Film Art by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith.

• Choose to analyze either For the Birds, Purl, or both.

• Identify key themes and messages within your chosen film(s) and discuss how they engage with or challenge dominant ideologies.

• Consider how specific visual and narrative techniques reinforce ideological meaning.

• Reflect on how audiences might interpret the film(s) differently depending on social and cultural contexts.

• If applicable, evaluate whether the ideological critique presented in the film(s) remains relevant today or if societal progress has shifted its impact.

Explanation of Marking

Understanding of Ideology and Values (6 marks):

• 6 marks: Insightful explanation of how films reflect or challenge societal ideologies. Strong use of examples and Film Art concepts.

• 5 marks: Clear explanation with good detail, though some areas may lack depth.

• 4 marks: Satisfactory understanding with basic connections between ideology and values.

• 3–1 marks: Limited discussion with minimal reference to the films or concepts.

Use of Evidence (3 marks):

• 3 marks: Specific and detailed examples from the film(s), clearly tied to the analysis.

• 2 marks: Adequate examples, but lacking depth or clarity.

• 1 mark: Minimal or poorly connected evidence.

Use of Media Terminology (2 marks):

• 2 marks: Consistent and accurate use of terms like ideology, dominant/oppositional readings, and symbolic codes.

• 1 mark: Basic or inconsistent use of terminology.

Additional Resources

YouTube Videos:

• Pixar’s For the Birds – A Lesson on Inclusion.

• Purl – Gender and Corporate Culture in Short Film.

Articles:

• Exploring Ideology in Popular Culture.

• How Short Films Reflect Social Values.

Sample Essay for Week 5

Question:

How do For the Birds and The Gunfighter reflect or challenge societal ideologies and values? Use specific examples from both films to support your analysis.

Essay

Both For the Birds (2000) by Pixar and The Gunfighter (2014) by Eric Kissack reflect and challenge societal ideologies and values through their representations of social behavior and human interaction. Using narrative techniques, symbolic codes, and subversion of audience expectations, these films critique group dynamics, prejudice, and traditional stereotypes, while engaging audiences with humor and wit.

(Annotation: The introduction identifies the core themes and concepts—social ideologies, group dynamics, and stereotypes. It outlines the films’ focus on critique and subversion, directly addressing the question.)

In For the Birds, societal values around exclusion and group prejudice are reflected and challenged through the interaction of a flock of birds and a larger, awkward outsider. The smaller birds, representing a clique or a closed group, reject the larger bird’s attempts to join them, reflecting societal tendencies toward exclusion based on differences. Symbolic codes, such as the birds’ uniform sizes and mocking vocalizations, emphasize their lack of individuality and conformity. For example, the smaller birds huddle together and squawk angrily, reinforcing their group mentality. The narrative challenges this exclusionary behavior when their bullying backfires, causing them to lose their feathers and be left vulnerable. This humorous resolution critiques societal norms of group prejudice by showing the consequences of exclusion. The dominant reading of For the Birds encourages audiences to reflect on inclusivity and the dangers of groupthink, while a negotiated reading might interpret the film as a lighthearted story about karma and personal accountability.

(Annotation: This paragraph focuses on For the Birds, analyzing how the narrative and symbolic codes critique group dynamics and exclusion. It explores dominant and negotiated audience readings, demonstrating depth in interpretation.)

In The Gunfighter, traditional western ideologies of masculinity, honor, and violence are both reflected and subverted. The film employs genre conventions, such as the saloon setting, costumes, and archetypal characters, to establish a familiar western aesthetic. However, the omniscient narrator disrupts these conventions by revealing the characters’ secrets, exposing their vulnerabilities and insecurities. For example, the narrator reveals that the gunslinger, typically a symbol of stoic masculinity, secretly writes poetry, challenging the stereotype of the hyper-masculine hero. This subversion creates humor while critiquing societal ideals of men as emotionless or overly dominant figures. The escalating conflict, driven by the narrator’s revelations, culminates in a chaotic shootout that satirizes the violence often glorified in the western genre. While the dominant reading critiques toxic masculinity and the inevitability of violence, an oppositional reading might dismiss the humor as undermining the seriousness of the genre’s themes. Nonetheless, The Gunfighter effectively engages audiences by blending satire with sharp commentary on societal values.

(Annotation: This paragraph analyzes The Gunfighter, focusing on its use of subversion and humor to critique traditional western ideologies. It highlights genre conventions and how they are used to both reflect and challenge societal values.)

Both films use humor and subversion to critique societal ideologies and values. For the Birds challenges exclusion and group prejudice by illustrating the consequences of bullying, while The Gunfighter satirizes hyper-masculine ideals and glorified violence within the western genre. By blending humor with sharp social commentary, these films engage audiences while encouraging reflection on social behavior and stereotypes. Their use of symbolic codes and subversive storytelling ensures that their messages resonate across different cultural and social contexts.

(Annotation: The conclusion ties the analysis together, summarizing how both films critique societal ideologies while engaging audiences through humor and subversion. It reinforces the connection between the films’ techniques and themes.)

Why This Essay Scores Highly

1. Understanding of Ideologies and Values (6 Marks):

• The essay clearly identifies the societal ideologies reflected and challenged in both films, such as group prejudice in For the Birds and toxic masculinity in The Gunfighter.

• It demonstrates depth by exploring both dominant and alternative readings, showing how different audiences might interpret these messages.

2. Use of Evidence (3 Marks):

• Specific examples from both films are included:

  • For the Birds: The smaller birds’ uniform appearance, their vocalizations, and the humorous resolution where they lose their feathers.

  • The Gunfighter: The narrator revealing the gunslinger’s poetry and the chaotic shootout that satirizes western violence.

• Each example is tied directly to the analysis of societal values and ideologies.

3. Media Terminology (2 Marks):

• Terms like symbolic codes, genre conventions, subversion, and dominant/oppositional readings are used accurately and effectively.

• The terminology enhances the analysis and demonstrates technical understanding.

Welcome to Week 6!

This week is all about balancing revision for your short-answer written assessment and refining your ideas for your short film production. By revisiting the key concepts, films, and writing techniques studied in Weeks 1–5, you will consolidate your analytical skills in preparation for the formal assessment next week. At the same time, you’ll begin to expand and solidify your short film concepts, ensuring they align with the knowledge you’ve gained so far about popular culture and media production.

Goals for Week 6

1. Revision:

   • Consolidate your understanding of themes, narrative structure, representation, ideologies, and audience engagement.

   • Refine your writing techniques to craft concise and analytical short-answer responses.

2. Concept Development:

   • Expand your short film ideas into detailed concept statements.

   • Begin considering themes, target audience, and visual style for your production.

Part 1: Revision Activities

Review Key Concepts

1. Themes and Narrative Structures (Weeks 1 & 2):

   • How themes like inclusion, identity, and ambition are explored in short films.

   • Narrative structures: Conflict, causality, and resolution in Purl and The Most Beautiful Thing.

2. Representation and Ideology (Weeks 3, 4 & 5):

   • Positive representations in Hair Love and The Present.

   • Critiques of societal values in The Most Beautiful Thing, For the Birds, and the Gillette ad.

   • Dominant, negotiated, and oppositional readings of media.

3. Codes, Conventions, and Genre (Week 3):

   • How Purl and Gift used symbolic codes and subverted genre conventions to engage audiences.

Practice Writing Short-Answer Responses

• Activity: Practice Questions

  • Choose one or more of the following questions to practice under timed conditions (25 minutes each):

    • How does Hair Love use symbolic codes to reflect cultural pride and identity?

    • In what ways do narrative structures in Purl and The Most engage audiences through conflict and resolution?

    • How do For the Birds and The Present construct representations that promote societal values like inclusion and resilience?

    • How does the Gillette ad challenge societal ideologies, and why might it provoke oppositional readings?

• Peer Feedback:

  • Swap your practice responses with a classmate and provide feedback on:

    • Clarity of argument.

    • Use of evidence.

    • Accuracy of media terminology.

• Teacher Review:

  • Submit one practice response for teacher feedback and incorporate their suggestions into your revisions.

Review Writing Strategies

• Structuring a Response:

  • Write a clear introduction that defines key terms and addresses the question.

  • Develop body paragraphs with specific examples from films and ads, linking them to the concepts in the question.

  • Conclude by summarizing your argument and reflecting on the impact of the techniques discussed.

• Using Media Terminology:

  • Ensure consistent use of terms like symbolic codes, mise-en-scène, narrative structures, and representation.

Part 2: Concept Development

Refine Your Short Film Concept

1. Brainstorming Themes and Target Audience

   • Reflect on the themes explored in Weeks 1–5. Which themes resonate most with you (e.g., inclusion, identity, ambition)?

   • Define your target audience: Who are you making this film for, and why will it engage them?

2. Draft a Concept Statement

   • Write a 1–2 paragraph summary of your short film idea, including:

     • Theme: What is the central idea or message of your film?

     • Genre and Style: What genre best fits your story, and what visual style will you adopt?

     • Representation: How will you portray characters and ideas? Will your film challenge stereotypes or reinforce positive values?

   • Example:

     • “My short film explores the theme of belonging in a high school setting, blending comedy and drama to reflect the challenges of fitting in. Through the lens of a quirky protagonist, the film will use bright colors and exaggerated sound design to create a visually dynamic and emotionally resonant experience for teenage audiences.”

3. Peer Discussion

   • Share your concept statement with a small group and discuss:

     • Is the theme clear and compelling?

     • Does the genre align with the story’s tone and audience?

     • How well does the concept reflect popular culture trends or values?

4. Begin Visualizing Your Film

   • Use tools like Canva or hand-drawn sketches to create a basic mood board for your film, focusing on:

     • Color palette.

     • Setting and props.

     • Key visual inspirations from the short films studied.

Deliverables for Week 6

1. Written Practice Response:

   • Submit one revised short-answer response based on teacher or peer feedback.

2. Concept Statement:

   • Finalize your 1–2 paragraph concept statement, ready for further expansion in Week 7.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of Week 6, you will:

• Demonstrate improved skills in crafting concise, analytical short-answer responses.

• Consolidate your understanding of key media concepts like representation, narrative, and genre.

• Have a polished concept statement that aligns with the themes and techniques explored in Weeks 1–5.

Additional Resources

Short Films Studied:

• Purl (Kristen Lester, 2018)

• The Most Beautiful Thing (Cameron Covell, 2012)

• For the Birds (Pixar, 2000)

• Hair Love (Matthew A. Cherry, 2019)

• The Present (Jacob Frey, 2014)

• Gillette’s The Best Men Can Be (2019)

Writing Support:

• Film Art: An Introduction by Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith

• Example short-answer responses provided

Creative Tools:

• Canva (mood boards and visual planning)

• Causality

Welcome to the Written Task!

This week consolidates your learning from Weeks 1–5 as you prepare to demonstrate your analytical skills in the first formal short answer written assessment. This assessment will challenge you to apply your understanding of popular culture, narrative structure, representation, and ideology to the films and concepts we’ve explored so far. Following the assessment, you will focus on reviewing and refining your pre-production plans for your short film projects, ensuring they align with the themes and principles of popular culture.

Preparation.

1. Consolidate Learning:

   • Revise key concepts, films, and writing techniques developed in Weeks 1–6.

   • Strengthen your ability to structure analytical responses, apply media terminology, and support your arguments with examples.

2. Short Answer Written Task:

   • Complete two analytical responses under supervised conditions, demonstrating your ability to synthesize theoretical understanding with film examples.

3. Pre-Production Review:

   • Use the remainder of the week to reflect on your short film concepts and pre-production plans. Refine your ideas to ensure they are practical and well-aligned with the knowledge gained so far.

What to Expect

Part 1: Revision Activities (Beginning of the Week)

1. Review Key Concepts

   • Themes and Narrative Structure:

     • Explore how themes like belonging, identity, and ambition are embedded in narratives.

     • Revisit narrative structures (e.g., linear vs. non-linear) and their impact on storytelling.

   • Representation and Ideology:

     • Discuss how films construct or challenge societal norms through representation.

     • Reflect on dominant, negotiated, and oppositional readings.

   • Visual Storytelling:

     • Analyze how mise-en-scène, cinematography, and art direction communicate themes.

   • Sound Design and Editing:

     • Examine how rhythm, pacing, and diegetic/non-diegetic sound engage audiences.

2. Review Writing Strategies

   • Structuring a Short Answer Response:

     • Write a clear introduction that defines key terms and concepts.

     • Develop evidence-based body paragraphs with specific examples from films.

     • Conclude concisely, linking your analysis to the broader impact of the techniques.

   • Use of Media Terminology:

     • Integrate terms such as mise-en-scène, symbolic codes, causality, and representation accurately.

3. Sample Revision Questions:

   • How does mise-en-scène reflect societal values in The Present?

   • In what ways does Purl use narrative structure to engage audiences?

   • How is sound design used to build tension in For the Birds?

   • How does narrative structure in The Beautiful Thing cater for audience expectations?

Part 2: Short Answer Written Task (Midweek)

1. Task Overview:

   • Duration: 50–60 minutes (1 period).

   • Structure: Answer two questions from a choice of five. Each response should be approximately 150–200 words.

   • Focus: Analyze specific aspects of the films studied in Weeks 1–6, using examples and media terminology to support your points.

2. Sample Questions:

   • How can representation reflect or challenge societal norms?

   • How can popular culture themes be explored through symbolic codes?

   • How does narrative structure and audience expectation?

   • In what ways can mise-en-scène reinforce the theme of inclusion in?

   • How can sound design enhance humour and tension in?

3. Marking Criteria:

   • Understanding of Concepts (6 marks):

     • Demonstrates clear understanding of the specific technique or concept and its impact on the film.

   • Use of Evidence (3 marks):

     • Includes specific, relevant examples from the film to support the analysis.

   • Media Terminology (2 marks):

     • Accurately incorporates key terminology relevant to the question.

   • Total Marks per Question: 11

   • Total Assessment Marks: 22

Part 3: Post-Assessment – Pre-Production Review (End of the Week)

1. Individual Reviews:

   • Present your current pre-production materials (concept statements, scripts, storyboards, or shot lists) to the teacher or a peer for feedback.

   • Discussion Questions:

     • Is the theme clear and reflective of popular culture?

     • Do the narrative structure and genre align with the intended audience?

     • Are the planned visuals, sounds, and representations feasible and engaging?

2. Group Discussions:

   • Work in small groups to brainstorm solutions to creative or logistical challenges (e.g., location availability, time constraints, or character design).

   • Reflect on how your short film connects to popular culture themes, incorporating feedback into your revisions.

3. Final Refinements:

   • Incorporate feedback into your pre-production materials.

   • Ensure your script, storyboard, and shot list are cohesive and practical.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of Week 6, students will:

1. Demonstrate their ability to write concise, analytical short answer responses under timed conditions.

2. Consolidate their understanding of popular culture concepts and apply them in analysis.

3. Receive constructive feedback on their pre-production work, ensuring they are prepared to begin filming in the coming weeks.