1) Introduction to TV Drama
2) Capital: Case study
3) Capital: Marxism and Hegemony
4) Capital: Applying Marxism
5) Deutschland 83: Case study
6) Deutschland 83: Close-textual analysis notes
7) Deutschland 83: Postmodernism
8) Industries: The rise of foreign-language TV dramas
9) Industries: The impact of new/digital media on television
10) TV: 750-word exam question
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
TV: The impact of new/digital media on television
Go to our Media Magazine archive and read the article on Netflix and the Cultural Industries(MM63 - page 45). Create a blogpost called 'The impact of new/digital media on TV' and answer the following questions:
1) What does the 'industry' concept in A Level Media Studies refer to?
The ‘industry’ concept refers to the companies that create and distribute media texts, the standard practices of media production, as well as the regulatory and legal frameworks in which the companies operate.
2) What does David Hesmondhalgh argue with regards to how the creative industries have changed since the 1980s?
Hesmondhalgh, broadly speaking, argues that since the 1980s there’s been a significant shift in cultural production.
3) Choose the three most significant points Hesmondhalgh makes regarding the changing cultural industries. Why are these the most significant in your view? Globalization has meant media texts can circulate more easily across borders reducing North American dominance.
This point is important because it allows texts to be distributed to other countries which means that other people from different countries and nationalities can watch other shows from other countries. This will allow them to appreciate the rise of foreign- language television. Media texts can circulate to other borders so foreign-language television will get a bigger audience.
Digitisation has allowed the technology sector to compete directly with traditional media companies.
This is an important point because this meant that media companies will have more competition and it will be harder for media companies to attract customers to watch their media texts because bigger and more powerful technology companies are coming into the industry such as Google, Apple and Amazon. Alphabet (Google’s parent company) and Facebook have become two of the biggest media companies in the world
on the back of advertising revenues. Because they can target niche audiences, advertisers
can be confident that their message is getting to their desired audience. At the same time, the global reach of the Internet can maximise their audience.
Niche audiences are increasingly targeted.
This point is important because it is showing the rise of Art house films in the last couple of years. Films have started targeting smaller audiences because it is more effective compared to when films used to attract large audiences. It is more effective and also it tells us that the the film will be different and the structure and narrative is different and every person won't like it but some people will appreciate the fact that the film is different
4) What is technological convergence?
In general, convergence is a coming together of two or more distinct entities or phenomena. Technological convergence is increasingly prevalent in the information technology world; in this context, the term refers to the combination of two or more different technologies in a single device.
5) How are technology companies challenging traditional broadcasters in the TV industry?
Although digitization’s first major impact was on the music industry, with the creation of CDs in the early 1980s, it was the growth of home computing and the creation of the World Wide Web, which led to increased technological convergence; digitization of media meant every media form could be accessed on computers. It was this that eventually enabled tech companies to compete directly with media companies and, arguably, even become media companies. Alphabet (Google’s parent company) and Facebook have become two of the biggest media companies in the world on the back of advertising revenues. Because they can micro-target niche audiences, advertisers can be confident that their message is getting to their desired audience. At the same time, the global reach of the Internet can maximize their audience.
6) What budgets will Netflix, Amazon and Apple spend on original programming next year?
Next year Netflix plans to spend $8bn on original material; Amazon’s budget is estimated at $4.5bn. Apple has recently joined the fray with a $1bn spend.
7) How many countries are Netflix and Amazon available in?
Netflix is available to 190 countries around the world and Amazon prime is available in 200 countries around the world.
8) The global nature of modern television means producers are having to consider international audiences when creating content. What example from Netflix does the article use to explain this?
Digitisation, and the ability to distribute texts via the Internet, meant that technology companies could
challenge traditional broadcasters. For example, Amazon (originally an online book seller) is now producing its own ‘television’ programmes. In doing this it followed Netflix, which began as a postal DVD service, in ‘liberating’ television programmes from broadcasters’ schedules with on-demand viewing. Netflix understood their business was distributing audiovisual texts and so realised that it needed to create its own online subscription service. Traditional distributors of DVDs, like the shop Blockbuster, went bust after broadband connections facilitated video streaming. Even more cannily Netflix
also understood that it would need to produce its own content because the traditional media companies would eventually realise that they could set up their own Internet distribution networks. Disney, for example, has withdrawn all its content from Netflix for distribution on its own channel.
9) Do you think technology companies such as Google, Facebook and Amazon will increase their interest in the television industry?
I think technology companies such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon will increase their interest in the television industry because I think that all these companies are powerful businesses and they want to compete in the film industry and want to offer their customers as much as possible so that they don't go to a rival. Also, because they want to get other companies in the film industry out of business which means that the big companies like Facebook and Apple don't want to just dominate their field of expertise but they want to dominate other fields such as the film industry because they want to make more profit and become an even bigger company who will dominate the markets today.
10) How do changes in technology influence the creation of TV dramas such as Capital or Deutschland 83? How?
Changes in technology influence the creation of TV dramas such as Capital or Deutschland 83 because it will allow the producers to use more advanced cameras and lighting, which will allow them to go for more ambitious shots. Also, this means that more features will be available for when the editing takes place. Finally, the changes in technology will allow the producer to pick more advanced locations and also use props with the technology involved, Such as, in Capital they could have made London more of a technological city with drones and more advancements using different editing techniques.
1) What does the 'industry' concept in A Level Media Studies refer to?
The ‘industry’ concept refers to the companies that create and distribute media texts, the standard practices of media production, as well as the regulatory and legal frameworks in which the companies operate.
2) What does David Hesmondhalgh argue with regards to how the creative industries have changed since the 1980s?
Hesmondhalgh, broadly speaking, argues that since the 1980s there’s been a significant shift in cultural production.
3) Choose the three most significant points Hesmondhalgh makes regarding the changing cultural industries. Why are these the most significant in your view? Globalization has meant media texts can circulate more easily across borders reducing North American dominance.
This point is important because it allows texts to be distributed to other countries which means that other people from different countries and nationalities can watch other shows from other countries. This will allow them to appreciate the rise of foreign- language television. Media texts can circulate to other borders so foreign-language television will get a bigger audience.
Digitisation has allowed the technology sector to compete directly with traditional media companies.
This is an important point because this meant that media companies will have more competition and it will be harder for media companies to attract customers to watch their media texts because bigger and more powerful technology companies are coming into the industry such as Google, Apple and Amazon. Alphabet (Google’s parent company) and Facebook have become two of the biggest media companies in the world
on the back of advertising revenues. Because they can target niche audiences, advertisers
can be confident that their message is getting to their desired audience. At the same time, the global reach of the Internet can maximise their audience.
Niche audiences are increasingly targeted.
This point is important because it is showing the rise of Art house films in the last couple of years. Films have started targeting smaller audiences because it is more effective compared to when films used to attract large audiences. It is more effective and also it tells us that the the film will be different and the structure and narrative is different and every person won't like it but some people will appreciate the fact that the film is different
4) What is technological convergence?
In general, convergence is a coming together of two or more distinct entities or phenomena. Technological convergence is increasingly prevalent in the information technology world; in this context, the term refers to the combination of two or more different technologies in a single device.
5) How are technology companies challenging traditional broadcasters in the TV industry?
Although digitization’s first major impact was on the music industry, with the creation of CDs in the early 1980s, it was the growth of home computing and the creation of the World Wide Web, which led to increased technological convergence; digitization of media meant every media form could be accessed on computers. It was this that eventually enabled tech companies to compete directly with media companies and, arguably, even become media companies. Alphabet (Google’s parent company) and Facebook have become two of the biggest media companies in the world on the back of advertising revenues. Because they can micro-target niche audiences, advertisers can be confident that their message is getting to their desired audience. At the same time, the global reach of the Internet can maximize their audience.
6) What budgets will Netflix, Amazon and Apple spend on original programming next year?
Next year Netflix plans to spend $8bn on original material; Amazon’s budget is estimated at $4.5bn. Apple has recently joined the fray with a $1bn spend.
7) How many countries are Netflix and Amazon available in?
Netflix is available to 190 countries around the world and Amazon prime is available in 200 countries around the world.
8) The global nature of modern television means producers are having to consider international audiences when creating content. What example from Netflix does the article use to explain this?
Digitisation, and the ability to distribute texts via the Internet, meant that technology companies could
challenge traditional broadcasters. For example, Amazon (originally an online book seller) is now producing its own ‘television’ programmes. In doing this it followed Netflix, which began as a postal DVD service, in ‘liberating’ television programmes from broadcasters’ schedules with on-demand viewing. Netflix understood their business was distributing audiovisual texts and so realised that it needed to create its own online subscription service. Traditional distributors of DVDs, like the shop Blockbuster, went bust after broadband connections facilitated video streaming. Even more cannily Netflix
also understood that it would need to produce its own content because the traditional media companies would eventually realise that they could set up their own Internet distribution networks. Disney, for example, has withdrawn all its content from Netflix for distribution on its own channel.
9) Do you think technology companies such as Google, Facebook and Amazon will increase their interest in the television industry?
I think technology companies such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon will increase their interest in the television industry because I think that all these companies are powerful businesses and they want to compete in the film industry and want to offer their customers as much as possible so that they don't go to a rival. Also, because they want to get other companies in the film industry out of business which means that the big companies like Facebook and Apple don't want to just dominate their field of expertise but they want to dominate other fields such as the film industry because they want to make more profit and become an even bigger company who will dominate the markets today.
10) How do changes in technology influence the creation of TV dramas such as Capital or Deutschland 83? How?
Changes in technology influence the creation of TV dramas such as Capital or Deutschland 83 because it will allow the producers to use more advanced cameras and lighting, which will allow them to go for more ambitious shots. Also, this means that more features will be available for when the editing takes place. Finally, the changes in technology will allow the producer to pick more advanced locations and also use props with the technology involved, Such as, in Capital they could have made London more of a technological city with drones and more advancements using different editing techniques.
TV exam question
“Realism is a vital component of television drama”. To what extent does an analysis of your television close-study products support this view? [25 marks]
Realism is a very important component in a television drama as it allows people to relate to the show, allowing them to create personal relationships with characters who may have potentially gone through similar experiences in life creating a connection with the viewer. The setting may also be something realistic which can keep the audience at bay as well.
In Deutschland 83 clearly, the show takes place during the end of the cold war. This is very significant as the audience of this show gains a vast amount of knowledge and insight, this is called surveillance. Furthermore, this reveals how realism is a vital aspect as the audience can learn something useful from this TV. In addition, Deutschland 83 provides an escape for the viewer as the show takes you to a completely different era as opposed to watching a regular modern tv show where we know everything about the setting. There is a great use of bricolage in the show such as when Ronald Reagan's speech is played on tv whilst the characters are watching it, this adds an immense sense of realism as real-life events are brought into the show making it seem like the audience is really taken back to that era.
In Capital, another very realistic show takes the modern day approach as in this state of the nation drama we can easily sympathize with characters as we see what it's like living in modern day Britain through the diversity of characters ranging from different ethnicities to different classes. In this show the audience will build relationships with the different Families portrayed in the show with the Kamals and Rodgers family, the two families seem to be portrayed as typical British integrated families which the audience can greatly relate to. In addition, another very realistic thing about this show is the constant reminder of the housing prices going up which is as close as you can get to realistic further supporting the importance of realism. There is A very good shot of Rodger in the London underground trains where it is shown to be crowded is an excellent portrayal of what London is like. Different aspects of life in London are portrayed by the tragic storyline of Quentina who is an asylum seeker, we see how she finds herself in a battle with immigration, which is something many people in London today may face. Quentina wounds up being a sympathetic character as she tackles the tougher aspects of life in London. Personal identity is formed here with Quentina.
To conclude my take on realism, both Deutschland 83 and capital offer very realistic showings through mainly setting, characters and historical contexts such as the cold war and Londons economical crisis in 2008, the characters are also very important in a show like capital as personal identity is formed with many characters. And the settings were also vital because of how real they were.
Realism is a very important component in a television drama as it allows people to relate to the show, allowing them to create personal relationships with characters who may have potentially gone through similar experiences in life creating a connection with the viewer. The setting may also be something realistic which can keep the audience at bay as well.
In Deutschland 83 clearly, the show takes place during the end of the cold war. This is very significant as the audience of this show gains a vast amount of knowledge and insight, this is called surveillance. Furthermore, this reveals how realism is a vital aspect as the audience can learn something useful from this TV. In addition, Deutschland 83 provides an escape for the viewer as the show takes you to a completely different era as opposed to watching a regular modern tv show where we know everything about the setting. There is a great use of bricolage in the show such as when Ronald Reagan's speech is played on tv whilst the characters are watching it, this adds an immense sense of realism as real-life events are brought into the show making it seem like the audience is really taken back to that era.
In Capital, another very realistic show takes the modern day approach as in this state of the nation drama we can easily sympathize with characters as we see what it's like living in modern day Britain through the diversity of characters ranging from different ethnicities to different classes. In this show the audience will build relationships with the different Families portrayed in the show with the Kamals and Rodgers family, the two families seem to be portrayed as typical British integrated families which the audience can greatly relate to. In addition, another very realistic thing about this show is the constant reminder of the housing prices going up which is as close as you can get to realistic further supporting the importance of realism. There is A very good shot of Rodger in the London underground trains where it is shown to be crowded is an excellent portrayal of what London is like. Different aspects of life in London are portrayed by the tragic storyline of Quentina who is an asylum seeker, we see how she finds herself in a battle with immigration, which is something many people in London today may face. Quentina wounds up being a sympathetic character as she tackles the tougher aspects of life in London. Personal identity is formed here with Quentina.
To conclude my take on realism, both Deutschland 83 and capital offer very realistic showings through mainly setting, characters and historical contexts such as the cold war and Londons economical crisis in 2008, the characters are also very important in a show like capital as personal identity is formed with many characters. And the settings were also vital because of how real they were.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
deutschland 83: postmodernism
Post Modernism and Deutschland '83.
1) Read the section on Strinati's five ways to define postmodernity. What examples are provided of the breakdown of the distinction between culture and society (media-isation)?
5) What is bricolage? What examples of bricolage can be found in Deutschland 83?
9) Which key scenes from Deutschland 83 best provide examples of postmodernism? Why?
The spy montage is the best example of postmodernism. This is because he is training which looks like a James Bond or Rocky movie. Also, the use of cinematography makes it look like we are watching him for a long period of time. The mise-en-scene reinforces the realism of the 80s and makes this scene a great example of postmodernism.
10) Why might audiences enjoy the postmodern aspects of Deutschland 83? What audience pleasures might elements of bricolage or pastiche provide viewers?
They might enjoy it because it can create nostalgia for the audience which is an audience pleasure as they are watching something they have had previous knowledge/experience.
The characters Bruno and Borat would be more known than the actor who portrays the character. The characters seem more real to the audience than the actors i.e. Sacha Baron Cohen as Borat.
The media reality is more real than the object itself. The example given is advertising. A poor quality product could sell well if it had a good marketing technique but a good quality product can fail with a poor marketing strategy.
2) What is Fredric Jameson's idea of 'historical deafness'? How can the idea of 'historical deafness' be applied to Deutschland 83?
2) What is Fredric Jameson's idea of 'historical deafness'? How can the idea of 'historical deafness' be applied to Deutschland 83?
As modernisation increases the historical context of the culture is lost. In Deutschland '83 modern music was a draft from the old culture of music in the 60s to 80s. The show uses classic songs from the 80s that have lost its historical context but the show is a recreation of this time period so it gives the historical context of songs like 'Sweet Dreams' back to the modern audience.
3) What examples and theories are provided for the idea of 'style over substance'?
People are more willing to buy a product based on the brand image than the actual quality of the product. Also, people are becoming famous because they have been featured on a famous show rather than a talent or ability being identified - Big Brother.
3) What examples and theories are provided for the idea of 'style over substance'?
People are more willing to buy a product based on the brand image than the actual quality of the product. Also, people are becoming famous because they have been featured on a famous show rather than a talent or ability being identified - Big Brother.
Jameson refers to this as cultural depthlessness, similar to Baudrillard's theory where meaning is lost and the surface representation is the only thing that is seen. But this can be countered like when the death of a celebrity occurs, the emotions and outcry replaces the shallowness of 'style over substance'.
4) What examples from music are provided for the breakdown of the distinction between art and popular culture? Can this be applied to Deutschland 83?
There is high art, which could be Opera and theatre music which is targeted at intelligent, wealthy people. In Deutschland 83, the daughter who is singing to the whole house in West Germany is high art music. There is also low art, which could be pop music, TV which was in the mass market. In Deutschland 83, there is a garden party where they are drinking and listening to pop.
There is high art, which could be Opera and theatre music which is targeted at intelligent, wealthy people. In Deutschland 83, the daughter who is singing to the whole house in West Germany is high art music. There is also low art, which could be pop music, TV which was in the mass market. In Deutschland 83, there is a garden party where they are drinking and listening to pop.
5) What is bricolage? What examples of bricolage can be found in Deutschland 83?
A bricolage is construction or creation from a diverse range of available things.
6) How can the audience pleasures of Deutschland 83 be linked to postmodernism? Read 'The decline of meta-narratives' and 'Media texts and the postmodern' to help answer this.
6) How can the audience pleasures of Deutschland 83 be linked to postmodernism? Read 'The decline of meta-narratives' and 'Media texts and the postmodern' to help answer this.
The audience pleasures of Deutschland 83 can be linked to postmodernism because of nostalgia. This is because the show uses brands and technology from the past and we as the audience is allowed to view that from a modern perspective.
7) Read the analysis of media concepts and postmodern approaches on page 3 of the factsheet. Choose three of the concepts and write an example from Deutschland 83. Clue: genre, representation, ideology and audience would all be good options for this task.
Genre: The spy genre is emphasised through the use of cinematography and music. We can see how they have used various shots such as through the blinds, windows, higher angles (CCTV) to create enigma and tension for the audience. Also, the music is paced according to the situation.
Audience: The audience are shown different ways of viewing media and different ways of consuming the show. The montage and different types of editing aren't typical spy series conventions so this forces them to engage more intellectually rather than consume what they expect to see and are used to seeing.
8) Now look at page 4 of the factsheet. How does Deutschland 83 demonstrate aspects of the postmodern in its construction and ideological positioning?.
The entire show is based on real events but the narrative of the show is fictional. The mise-en-scene in the scenes are used to make the show feel as real as possible to strengthen the narrative. The characters are fictional in a sense, therefore the hyper-real narrative gives the show the postmodernist aspects.
Genre: The spy genre is emphasised through the use of cinematography and music. We can see how they have used various shots such as through the blinds, windows, higher angles (CCTV) to create enigma and tension for the audience. Also, the music is paced according to the situation.
Ideology: Each part of Germany is represented by colour and props. The east is shown with dull colours, less expensive clothes and houses that were cramped and dated.The west is shown with bright colours, more light and what seems like a more expensive lifestyle.
8) Now look at page 4 of the factsheet. How does Deutschland 83 demonstrate aspects of the postmodern in its construction and ideological positioning?.
The entire show is based on real events but the narrative of the show is fictional. The mise-en-scene in the scenes are used to make the show feel as real as possible to strengthen the narrative. The characters are fictional in a sense, therefore the hyper-real narrative gives the show the postmodernist aspects.
9) Which key scenes from Deutschland 83 best provide examples of postmodernism? Why?
The spy montage is the best example of postmodernism. This is because he is training which looks like a James Bond or Rocky movie. Also, the use of cinematography makes it look like we are watching him for a long period of time. The mise-en-scene reinforces the realism of the 80s and makes this scene a great example of postmodernism.
10) Why might audiences enjoy the postmodern aspects of Deutschland 83? What audience pleasures might elements of bricolage or pastiche provide viewers?
They might enjoy it because it can create nostalgia for the audience which is an audience pleasure as they are watching something they have had previous knowledge/experience.
Friday, March 29, 2019
TV: The rise of foreign-language television
Meet Walter promo clip
Channel 4 created a short introductory video for ‘Walter Presents’. Watch the clip and think about the following:
- How is Walter introduced?
- What target audience is this aiming at?
- What audience pleasures are suggested from the promo?
- What does Walter say about TV drama?
The rise of foreign-language TV: Blog tasks
To continue our work on Deutschland 83, we need to read a range of articles on the foreign-language TV phenomenon. When answering the questions, consider the issues from both an audience and industry perspective.
Independent: British viewers can't get enough of foreign-language dramas
Read this Independent feature on foreign-language dramas. It features an in-depth interview with Walter Iuzzolino who curates Channel 4's Walter Presents programming. Answer the questions below:
1) What does the article suggest regarding the traditional audience for foreign-language subtitled media?
"you'd have been quietly declared pretentious, dull and, possibly, a little odd."
2) What does Walter Iuzzolino suggest is the key appeal of his 'Walter Presents' shows?
"We all love getting that insight into a different culture," says Deeks. "The unfamiliar setting gives a freshness to genre pieces."
"the houses, the people, what they wear, what their voices sound like, the language, is one of the biggest appeals."
3) The article makes an interesting claim for the popularity of subtitles in the multi-screen age. What does it suggest?
WhatsApp, subtitles are a welcome enforcement for us to focus. "When you read subtitles, you have to be glued to the screen," says Deeks. "That concentration gives a particular intensity to the viewing experience. You just can't multitask when you're watching a foreign-language drama."
This shows that subtitles provide a better viewing experience for people watching shows. It can also reveal how audiences now are more technology based as they feel the need to be glued to a screen.4) What are the other audiences pleasures of foreign TV drama suggested by the article?
Iuzzolino agrees. "You develop a love for the distant world because while you're watching, you're in Sweden,"
Now look at the bonus article - on Sherlock and how viewers are steering their favourite shows.
5) What examples are provided of how TV companies are increasingly using audiences to inform the production process?
Film School Rejects: The foreign TV dramas you're missing out on
Now read this Film School Rejects feature on the foreign TV dramas you're missing out on. This contains some particularly useful background on Deutschland 83's reception internationally. If the website is blocked, you can access the article text here. Answer the following questions:
1) What does the article tell us about Deutschland 83's release schedule?
Premiering on AMC Network’s Sundance TV in June 2015, the show was the first German-language TV series to premiere on a US network. The fact Germany’s commercial RTL channel received Deutschland ’83 five months after the US both signifies the series’ global appeal as well as foreshadows where the German crime thriller was (and is) to find its audience.
2) The article contains important statistics on viewing figures in different countries. What were the German viewing figures for the first and last episode? What were Channel's 4's viewing figures for Deutschland 83?
the German premiere had 3.19 million viewers. Each new episode saw that figure drop, and by the series’ conclusion the figures had fallen down to 1.63 million — it’s lowest figure.
3) Who are the two production and distribution companies behind Deutschland 83 and what did they announce in October?
Sundance TV and FremantleMedia announced in that there will be a second season of Deutschland 83 and will be called Deutschland 86.
4) What does the article suggest was the driving force behind the series being renewed for a new season (and possibly two new seasons)?
The article suggests that the record breaking viewing figures in the US and the UK is what gave it the strength to be renewed for a second season.
5) How does Walter Iuzzolino use social media to engage audiences in new international TV dramas? How does he suggest this has changed the reception of foreign productions in the UK?
He put up a new "Weekend Pick" for people on his facebook and twitter account so that people have a new show to watch. He suggests that this had made these dramas more readily available.
IndieWire: The rise of international television
Now look at this IndieWire feature on the rise of international television. If the website is blocked, you can access the text from the article here. Answer the questions below:
1) What does the article suggest regarding the difference between TV and film?
TV tends to feel culturally specific, tailored to domestic tastes. It also states that foreign language films are more of an arthouse genre.
2) What cultural differences are highlighted in the article - for example in turning 'Prisoners of War' into 'Homeland' when remade in the US?
"The original series focused on the experiences of and the idea of POWs, which he called an "Open wound in Israeli society," but that for the U.S the emphasis was on the agent investigating the returned soldier, on a more American issues of distrusting the government and of a fears of agents among us."
3) Why do you think Deutschland 83 was able to rise above these cultural differences to be successful in the US and UK? Did this inadvertently make the drama fail in Germany?
I think Deutschland 83 was able to disregard the cultural differences because of the idea of the main character being so oblivious to life on the other side of Berlin. This creates cinematography and editing which makes the audience feel as if they too are coming to West Germany for the first time.
4) What does the article suggest about subtitling?
That people pay attention to it more as with english TV dramas the mass audience will understand the language, and therefore not need them overall, but because it is a foreign language they can't have their attention averted, or they will risk missing something.
5) What does Sopranos actor Steven Van Zandt suggest is the appeal in foreign television drama?
The appeal is in learning about other peoples cultures as well as how people from there behave, compared to the country that the viewer is in.
The Guardian: How tech is changing television
Finally, read this Guardian feature on how tech is changing television. This has some particularly useful aspects from an industry perspective - how TV is made, the different formats of TV drama and more. Answer the following questions:
1) What are the traditional lengths for TV drama and what dictated these programme formats?
The traditional lengths are: 15 minutes, 30 minutes and 60 minutes, including advert breaks. These timings are used to utilize an easy to follow grid of times as to when shows start, making the start times easier to remember.
2) How have streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime changed the way TV drama narratives are constructed?
Amazon is working on 'choose your own adventure' shows and it is an example how technology is changing storytelling.
Netflix makes it so that all of the shows of a box set/series is available and include recaps so that people can remember what had happened in a previous episode.
3) Why has the rise in streaming led to more complex storylines and an increase in cliffhangers?
This is so that people are more likley to return to the next installment next weel, or whenever, to help increase the appeal and demand to see the next episode, further increasing the usage of that service.
4) How have the "economics of production" kept TV drama largely sticking to the 45- or 60-minute episode format?
TV dramas are usually shot in blocks, in order to reduce costs of actors and crew, meaning that whilst one block is being filmed, the next block is being prepared, allowing for less time to be wasted and more money to be saved.
5) How has "permanent 24/7 connectivity" changed both the production and consumption of TV drama?
This allows live discussions and criticisms, a downside of this is that if people search for a specific term they get an isolated opinion, rather than the truth of the masses.
Sundance TV and FremantleMedia announced in that there will be a second season of Deutschland 83 and will be called Deutschland 86.
4) What does the article suggest was the driving force behind the series being renewed for a new season (and possibly two new seasons)?
The article suggests that the record breaking viewing figures in the US and the UK is what gave it the strength to be renewed for a second season.
5) How does Walter Iuzzolino use social media to engage audiences in new international TV dramas? How does he suggest this has changed the reception of foreign productions in the UK?
He put up a new "Weekend Pick" for people on his facebook and twitter account so that people have a new show to watch. He suggests that this had made these dramas more readily available.
IndieWire: The rise of international television
Now look at this IndieWire feature on the rise of international television. If the website is blocked, you can access the text from the article here. Answer the questions below:
1) What does the article suggest regarding the difference between TV and film?
TV tends to feel culturally specific, tailored to domestic tastes. It also states that foreign language films are more of an arthouse genre.
2) What cultural differences are highlighted in the article - for example in turning 'Prisoners of War' into 'Homeland' when remade in the US?
"The original series focused on the experiences of and the idea of POWs, which he called an "Open wound in Israeli society," but that for the U.S the emphasis was on the agent investigating the returned soldier, on a more American issues of distrusting the government and of a fears of agents among us."
3) Why do you think Deutschland 83 was able to rise above these cultural differences to be successful in the US and UK? Did this inadvertently make the drama fail in Germany?
I think Deutschland 83 was able to disregard the cultural differences because of the idea of the main character being so oblivious to life on the other side of Berlin. This creates cinematography and editing which makes the audience feel as if they too are coming to West Germany for the first time.
4) What does the article suggest about subtitling?
That people pay attention to it more as with english TV dramas the mass audience will understand the language, and therefore not need them overall, but because it is a foreign language they can't have their attention averted, or they will risk missing something.
5) What does Sopranos actor Steven Van Zandt suggest is the appeal in foreign television drama?
The appeal is in learning about other peoples cultures as well as how people from there behave, compared to the country that the viewer is in.
The Guardian: How tech is changing television
Finally, read this Guardian feature on how tech is changing television. This has some particularly useful aspects from an industry perspective - how TV is made, the different formats of TV drama and more. Answer the following questions:
1) What are the traditional lengths for TV drama and what dictated these programme formats?
The traditional lengths are: 15 minutes, 30 minutes and 60 minutes, including advert breaks. These timings are used to utilize an easy to follow grid of times as to when shows start, making the start times easier to remember.
2) How have streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime changed the way TV drama narratives are constructed?
Amazon is working on 'choose your own adventure' shows and it is an example how technology is changing storytelling.
Netflix makes it so that all of the shows of a box set/series is available and include recaps so that people can remember what had happened in a previous episode.
3) Why has the rise in streaming led to more complex storylines and an increase in cliffhangers?
This is so that people are more likley to return to the next installment next weel, or whenever, to help increase the appeal and demand to see the next episode, further increasing the usage of that service.
4) How have the "economics of production" kept TV drama largely sticking to the 45- or 60-minute episode format?
TV dramas are usually shot in blocks, in order to reduce costs of actors and crew, meaning that whilst one block is being filmed, the next block is being prepared, allowing for less time to be wasted and more money to be saved.
5) How has "permanent 24/7 connectivity" changed both the production and consumption of TV drama?
This allows live discussions and criticisms, a downside of this is that if people search for a specific term they get an isolated opinion, rather than the truth of the masses.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Marxism & hegemony: blog tasks
Marxism & hegemony
1) Re-read the Mail Online review of Capital. Why does it suggest that Capital features a left-wing ideology?
I think that it suggests that capital features left wing ideology, simply for the reason that it does. The show clearly shows left wing opinions and sides with everything which we think to be a left wing opinion. For example immigration, Quintina is represented to be a hard working individual who is being exploited and is not claiming any benefits and is only doing this for her survival as she knows if she goes back to her country she will be killed and even mocks that she will be lucky if she is just raped. The other immigrants which are shown at the Pakistani family, the Kamals and they are also represented in a very positive and sympathetic way, and appear to have integrated into the British culture as they show some of what we consider to be British banter and seem to respect the culture. This shows two very positive left wing opinions of immigrants and although I believe that they have made some valid points which make sense, they failed to notice the positives of the TV show and how it showed diversity for example.
2) Choose three quotes from the review that are particularly critical of Capital and paste them into your blog post. Do you agree with the criticisms? Why?
- "With a fizzle like a firework on a wet night, Capital (BBC1) dribbled to a soggy ending."
- "Everything British came in for a dose of loathing."
- "But that concept went nowhere. The residents were bemused, but not scared."
I think that all of these criticisms are very crucial as it will dictate how people view the program and what they think about it. I feel like this review is very important as they don't say a lot of good things about the TV show and a lot of things which they say are very relatable and that people will agree with a lot of the statements which have been said. To answer the question I do agree with a lot of the statements which have been said in the article as they have said a lot of things which have been said. With the critical things which I have chosen to speak about are all very true. I agree that there could have been a much better end and was very anti-climactic due to the amazing concept which the show had which may not have reached its full potential which it could have. I feel like there were a few things which showed British culture to be good, for example, Petunia is a sweet old lady who is just confused about the ethnicity of the Pakistani family and how the Pakistani family want to adopt the British banter, however does show some negatives, for example that people may be working too hard but I don't really think that this is an offensive statement.
3) What scenes or characters from Capital could be read as promoting left-wing ideology?
I think that the main character who promotes left wing ideology is Petunia as the rest of the characters which promote left wing ideology are either majorly impacted by it or impacted by it first hand, however Petunia is an old white woman and this group of older white people is thought to be the more racist, less accepting group of people as they are not used to the situation of multiculturalism and so much diversity and we can see that she has been left behind in this matter as she makes the mistake of confusing the Pakistani family as Indians, however is shown to be very apologetic and doesn't seem to be partial or rude to anyone who may have moved to the country through immigration. Although it may not be as important to show that she has left wing ideologies, but Quintina is clearly shown to have left wing ideologies as she has moved to the country as an immigrant, however we are still shown to sympathise with her as she is shown to be an immigrant who is working hard and is forced to get less money then she would if she was working legally and would be able to pay taxes and contribute too if the government allowed her too and isn't shown to be taking advantage of the government.
4) What about the other side of the argument - are there any aspects of Capital that reinforce the status quo in capitalist London?
There are many aspects in Capital which reinforce the status quo in capitalist London, for example Roger Youte who had a large amount of money in the beginning of the series and was expecting more money was shown to become a bit lazy through his years and was beginning to be replaced by a younger more hard working man, which suggests that the busy city of London doesn't wait for anyone. It may also be showing that the elite in London for example Roger and his family will always remain wealthy as even if they become lazy and stop doing work, may not receive as money as they has hoped such as a million will still receive money like 30K simply for a bonus as they are now in that position and will be sad and fight over that much money although his bonus is larger then the average wage in the UK. Another thing being that Quintina is such a hard worker and will still only be able to earn such a small amount of money with such a struggle because of her status and suggests that even the area in which she works constantly surrounds her with wealth and reminds her of poverty as the same time.
Media Magazine feature on BBC drama The Casual Vacancy and ideology
1) Why did the Daily Mail suggest The Casual Vacancy promoted a left-wing ideology?
It mocked and shamed wealthier residents when they planned to sell of the local food bank.
2) How does the article suggest characters, narrative and setting are used to promote a left-wing ideology?
The show suggests that the characters and narrative are used to promote a left wing ideology as it shows the food bank closing to be an extremely negative thing and shows the disgust of some of the characters when they close it down. It suggests that the right wing opinion of closing food banks is the correct decision as it would reduce the rate of taxes which means the people who are working will receive more money, however this also means that the very wealthy are not supporting the poor.
3) What research is quoted regarding BBC bias and what did it find? Do you think the BBC is biased?
"BBC is too cosy with J.K.Rowling" is quoted as the bias of the BBC and we know that the BBC is known and reported to have left wing ideologies and this may show a connection to J.K.Rowling as she is also known to have left wing views. I do think that the BBC is mainly fair and represents both views equally, however there are obviously their own opinions on what is right and wrong which may become apparent.
4) Gramsci's theory of hegemony suggests people are kept under control through active consent - the control of 'common sense'. How could you apply the Daily Mail or the BBC to the idea of hegemony and dominant ideologies in the UK media?
I think that the Daily Mail or the BBC are extremely popular due to the fact that they show things which are obviously seen to be common sense and even suggest certain views and opinions and know that these things will be popular and agreed with. I think that sometimes they can makes statements which will be the opinion of the people as this is more likely to bring attention to their programme. Although the BBC is funding based and should therefore theoretically be more fair, it may simply give the public what they want as this will give good reviews and attention to the show and is more likely to keep them as the public service broadcaster of the country. The daily mail of course hints to the fact that they are in fact right wing and have very specific views, however they are of course careful to ensure that they are not obviously denying left wing opinions as this would really restrict their potential audience.
I think that it suggests that capital features left wing ideology, simply for the reason that it does. The show clearly shows left wing opinions and sides with everything which we think to be a left wing opinion. For example immigration, Quintina is represented to be a hard working individual who is being exploited and is not claiming any benefits and is only doing this for her survival as she knows if she goes back to her country she will be killed and even mocks that she will be lucky if she is just raped. The other immigrants which are shown at the Pakistani family, the Kamals and they are also represented in a very positive and sympathetic way, and appear to have integrated into the British culture as they show some of what we consider to be British banter and seem to respect the culture. This shows two very positive left wing opinions of immigrants and although I believe that they have made some valid points which make sense, they failed to notice the positives of the TV show and how it showed diversity for example.
2) Choose three quotes from the review that are particularly critical of Capital and paste them into your blog post. Do you agree with the criticisms? Why?
- "With a fizzle like a firework on a wet night, Capital (BBC1) dribbled to a soggy ending."
- "Everything British came in for a dose of loathing."
- "But that concept went nowhere. The residents were bemused, but not scared."
I think that all of these criticisms are very crucial as it will dictate how people view the program and what they think about it. I feel like this review is very important as they don't say a lot of good things about the TV show and a lot of things which they say are very relatable and that people will agree with a lot of the statements which have been said. To answer the question I do agree with a lot of the statements which have been said in the article as they have said a lot of things which have been said. With the critical things which I have chosen to speak about are all very true. I agree that there could have been a much better end and was very anti-climactic due to the amazing concept which the show had which may not have reached its full potential which it could have. I feel like there were a few things which showed British culture to be good, for example, Petunia is a sweet old lady who is just confused about the ethnicity of the Pakistani family and how the Pakistani family want to adopt the British banter, however does show some negatives, for example that people may be working too hard but I don't really think that this is an offensive statement.
3) What scenes or characters from Capital could be read as promoting left-wing ideology?
I think that the main character who promotes left wing ideology is Petunia as the rest of the characters which promote left wing ideology are either majorly impacted by it or impacted by it first hand, however Petunia is an old white woman and this group of older white people is thought to be the more racist, less accepting group of people as they are not used to the situation of multiculturalism and so much diversity and we can see that she has been left behind in this matter as she makes the mistake of confusing the Pakistani family as Indians, however is shown to be very apologetic and doesn't seem to be partial or rude to anyone who may have moved to the country through immigration. Although it may not be as important to show that she has left wing ideologies, but Quintina is clearly shown to have left wing ideologies as she has moved to the country as an immigrant, however we are still shown to sympathise with her as she is shown to be an immigrant who is working hard and is forced to get less money then she would if she was working legally and would be able to pay taxes and contribute too if the government allowed her too and isn't shown to be taking advantage of the government.
4) What about the other side of the argument - are there any aspects of Capital that reinforce the status quo in capitalist London?
There are many aspects in Capital which reinforce the status quo in capitalist London, for example Roger Youte who had a large amount of money in the beginning of the series and was expecting more money was shown to become a bit lazy through his years and was beginning to be replaced by a younger more hard working man, which suggests that the busy city of London doesn't wait for anyone. It may also be showing that the elite in London for example Roger and his family will always remain wealthy as even if they become lazy and stop doing work, may not receive as money as they has hoped such as a million will still receive money like 30K simply for a bonus as they are now in that position and will be sad and fight over that much money although his bonus is larger then the average wage in the UK. Another thing being that Quintina is such a hard worker and will still only be able to earn such a small amount of money with such a struggle because of her status and suggests that even the area in which she works constantly surrounds her with wealth and reminds her of poverty as the same time.
Media Magazine feature on BBC drama The Casual Vacancy and ideology
1) Why did the Daily Mail suggest The Casual Vacancy promoted a left-wing ideology?
It mocked and shamed wealthier residents when they planned to sell of the local food bank.
2) How does the article suggest characters, narrative and setting are used to promote a left-wing ideology?
The show suggests that the characters and narrative are used to promote a left wing ideology as it shows the food bank closing to be an extremely negative thing and shows the disgust of some of the characters when they close it down. It suggests that the right wing opinion of closing food banks is the correct decision as it would reduce the rate of taxes which means the people who are working will receive more money, however this also means that the very wealthy are not supporting the poor.
3) What research is quoted regarding BBC bias and what did it find? Do you think the BBC is biased?
"BBC is too cosy with J.K.Rowling" is quoted as the bias of the BBC and we know that the BBC is known and reported to have left wing ideologies and this may show a connection to J.K.Rowling as she is also known to have left wing views. I do think that the BBC is mainly fair and represents both views equally, however there are obviously their own opinions on what is right and wrong which may become apparent.
4) Gramsci's theory of hegemony suggests people are kept under control through active consent - the control of 'common sense'. How could you apply the Daily Mail or the BBC to the idea of hegemony and dominant ideologies in the UK media?
I think that the Daily Mail or the BBC are extremely popular due to the fact that they show things which are obviously seen to be common sense and even suggest certain views and opinions and know that these things will be popular and agreed with. I think that sometimes they can makes statements which will be the opinion of the people as this is more likely to bring attention to their programme. Although the BBC is funding based and should therefore theoretically be more fair, it may simply give the public what they want as this will give good reviews and attention to the show and is more likely to keep them as the public service broadcaster of the country. The daily mail of course hints to the fact that they are in fact right wing and have very specific views, however they are of course careful to ensure that they are not obviously denying left wing opinions as this would really restrict their potential audience.
Deutschland 83 close-textual analysis
Scene 1: Garden/BBQ East & West Germany
4.58 – 8.20 and 34.00 – 37.20
- mise en scene-west Germany wears formal clothing whereas east are seen in more casual wear, to show the visible difference between east and west.
- East is shown to be warmer and more tight knit as a family than west
- Clear difference in music between East and West Germany, this emphasises the clear divide between the two.
Scene 2: Martin/Moritz West German supermarket
14.30 – 20.25
- Fast paced editing, showing action, reinforcing the excitement of a spy drama.
- Martin has a big change in costume when entering the west, he is more modernised which shows how West Germany is more advanced.
- The supermarket in West Germany is unnaturally colourful and bright which may suggest that life in the west is better.
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