P2: Industry & Audiences
Monday 4th November 2024
Media Industries & Audiences
L/O: to explore the content of unit
- Snow White funded the emergence of Disney as a successful animated feature film producer. At the time the industry was dominated by classic Hollywood studio system
- Shang-Chi illustrates the importance of franchises to blockbuster film making aimed at global audiences.
- both act as prestige content for multi-media conglomerates such as the Walt-Disney company.
Comcast delivers the best in Internet, TV, Voice, Mobile, Home Management and Business Solutions all working together to connect you to the experiences that matter most – anywhere, anytime.
owns:
sky UK
dreamworks pictures
Universal
Sky news
Spectra
Cloo
products:
-xfinity = TV, Internet, Phone, Smart Home, Home Security
- Universal resort
- Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios
- Every Universal studio
Worth
166.68B USD
A conglomerate is a large media company that owns many different smaller companies in multiple different industries/sectors.
the smaller companies are subsidiaries and are operated as their own separate entities.
Disney:
subsidiaries: ABC, ESPN, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm etc.
Disney's strategy of diversification and acquisition has helped it become one of the largest media entertainment companies in the world.
It has created synergies between its various subsidiaries.
US Entertainment conglomerates:
Disney, Comcast, Sony, AT&T, ViacomCBS.
Disney:
Industries:
media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive media.
Worth:
173.76 billion USD
Disney paid:
Pixar: $7.4B
The acquisition gave Walt Disney access to Pixar's technology, which was very important to them. It also provided Walt Disney with new characters that would help the company create new revenue streams.
IP: owns Toy Story, Bugs Life, Finding Nemo, Cars, etc.
Lucasfilm: $4B
IP: Star Wars
Marvel: $4B
IP: Comic characters
Fox: $71.3B
IP: X-Men, Avatar, The Simpsons
Friday 8th November 2024
Horizontal Integration: branching out into other industries - movies, games, books, advertisement etc. (can be done through buying out other companies) will be in the same level of the value chain
Vertical Integration: owning all levels of the value chain - Production, Distribution, Exhibition of one industry.
THE BIG 5: Disney, Warner Bros, Universal, Paramount, Columbia
Snow White & The Seven Dwarves
L/O: to explore the set texts
Early Cinema:
pre-classical cinema: 1898 - 1915
invention of motion picture camera - Lumiere brothers
Film tape was painted to add colour
Cinema's - Silent films - orchestras in the cinema
Editing - Birth of a nation
Synchronised sound - 1920's
Hollywood: 1930 - 1945
Vertical Integration
Golden age of Hollywood
Warner Bros - Jazz Singer, Little Caesar
MGM - Gone with the wind, Wizard of Oz.
RKO -
Universal - Frankenstein
Big 5:
failed because they owned movie theatres and people couldn't go to them because they were a luxury therefore no money
Warner Bros, RKO, Fox, Paramount, MGM
Major Minors:
Universal, United Artists, Columbia
'Dubbing' - laying a different vocal layer on top
Censorship - Will hays - list of don't do's
Walt Disney:
sold old company to a small Kansas city theatre chain.
granted contract for 6 animated shorts - theatre refused to pay
company went into bankruptcy
went to LA
became movie director
Alice's wonderland - cartoon + real person
worked with brother
Alice's wonderland became more focused on the cartoons than the girl.
Monday 11th November 2024
Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
Main Characters
Snow White - Loving, Caring, Nurturing, Feminine, Sweet, Innocent, Protagonist
Magic Mirror - Speaks in rhymes
Stepmother - Evil, Jealous, Vain, Main Antagonist
Prince - Handsome,
Sleepy - Tired Constantly
Grumpy - Aggressive
Dopey - Unintelligent, doesn't talk, Comedic, tallest
Sneezy - Hay fever, always ill
Happy - Happy, laughs a lot
Doc - Leader, Glasses, stumbles over his words.
Bashful - Shy, Embarrassed, face goes red
Narrative
Queen is jealous of snow whites beauty, asks a hunter to take snow white into a forest and bring back her heart.
Snow white runs into the forest and finds the cottage, meet the 7 dwarves.
Queen discovers she is alive and uses magic to disguise as an older, frail woman. Creates poison apple
Snow white dies, dwarves unable to bury
Themes
Jealousy
Royalty
Good vs Evil
Romance
Representation (groups, individuals, places etc.)
Women -
Snow White: Dainty, Feminine, Princess, Cooks & cleans - conforms to stereotypes
Evil Stepmother: Vain, Cruel, Unfair - subverts stereotypes
Men -
Hunter: Strong, meant to kill Snow White - subverts stereotypes by failing and being sympathetic.
Dwarves: Comedic value; older gentlemen, unclean, miners - stereotypes of men.
Prince: conventionally attractive
Age -
Older Women - seen as unattractive witches, cruel, evil.
Older Men - grey hair, balding, gentlemanly
Monday 18th November 2024
L/O: to explore the context & influences in the 1930s
first full length animated feature film
first movie to make merchandise released the day it was released
first movie to have a soundtrack released on vinyl
short films to test effects/ideas for snow white
ran out of money whilst producing and so had to cut down scenes.
Took a classic story and changed it to fit the audience at the time.
took 3 years to produce
used a multi plane camera - created depth/3D
Disney himself was heavily involved
premiered December 21st 1937 - people on holiday; more likely to see it.
highest grossing film of 1938.
today is regarded as a classic
Influences:
Brothers Grimm - fairytales - 1812
European Ballet and Opera
Winsor McCay & European Animators
Multiplane camera system, Technicolour
sensibilities about differences are blunt - dwarfism is patronising
produced by white men for a white audience
Friday 22nd November 2024:
German Expressionism:
Film creation + Industry
WW1 brought film creation to a standstill in France, Germany & UK
German government controlled what films could or couldn't be created.
Germany had the only film industry that could compete with Hollywood
Brought in costume wearing
not many independent production companies.
Cabinet of Dr Caligari - film made that showed WW1 experience and distrust of authoritarian leaders
focus on stories and story telling.
Created Mise-En-Scene - exaggerated and distorted to look creepy. Stylised and unsettling
German creators fled to London during fascist Germany
unchained camera is free to move around the scene.
Nosferatu inspired by Caligari - uses the exaggerated Mise-En-Scene
THEMES: Duality of human nature - Good/Evil, Forest - becoming evil characters.
German expressionism in snow white:
Exaggerated looks of queen, castle, dwarves
sharpness of the light and the dark
Technology and techniques used to create Snow White:
Technicolour - use of colour in film
Drawing on paper - character moves when you flip between each page. Had to follow every line exactly.
Photos are taken of each image which are put through a machine which inverts the image and projects the full animation.
Silly Symphonies: Used the short films "Silly Symphonies" to experiment with techniques to use in Snow White.
Multi Plane camera: makes the art seem like you could walk into the scene, provides layers
Music & Sound: uses of an orchestra to add emotion and tension to the scenes. Used actual things to make sound, knocking down a stack of shelves to make a crashing noise (Foley Art).
Rotoscoping: drawing over live action footage, creates more realistic movement. Snow White - moves realistically.
Women cooking, cleaning, washing etc.
Caring for the dwarves as if they were her children (?)
Men: strong, Hard-working
American Mid-west
Walt's upbringing in the American Mid-West had an influence on the themes and values in his films. Many of his films shows the American vision of innocence and wholesomeness.
Midwestern roots instilled a love for family, community, and hard work. Snow white - virtuous, hard working,
Nostalgic view of rural America. idyllic small towns, picturesque. Popular view during the great depression & WW2 1930-40s.
The production of Snow White & the Seven Dwarves was influenced by the technological developments of the time, German Expressionism, culture of America, and old fairytales.
We can see the influence of German Expressionism in Snow White through the Mise-En-Scene found throughout the movie. At the start of the film, we see the towering structure of the Queen's castle, which Snow White & the Evil Queen live in. The scene shows a low angle shot of the towering castle with its twisted turrets. Also, the sharp contrast between the dark and light creates an intimidating image of the castle. This stylized exaggeration makes the tower seem creepy and unsettling, which is a feature of Mise-En-Scene created during the era of German Expressionism. In addition, the design of the dwarves being heavily emphasized - short stature, large noses, exaggerated personalities - is also done to adopt the style of Mise-En-Scene created during the early 1920's.
Another influence used in the creation of Snow White is the Animation Techniques and technologies. One aspect of this is the Multi-Plane camera which completed development in 1937. It was made to give animation different layers, to make it seem like you could physically walk into the scene. Walt Disney first used it on the 'Silly Symphonies' Skits, which were used as a test for new techniques to use in Snow White and to see how audiences reacted to them. One technique he tested was the effects used in the potion scene, where the evil queen reads the spell book, turns into an old lady and creates a poison apple. Through doing this, it allowed for Disney to develop his techniques and eventually use them as an influence for Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Furthermore, the creation of 'Technicolor' in the 1910's allowed for the animators to bring color to their motion picture movie. This meant that audiences could feel the fantasy of the movie with color.
The biggest influence to the story of Snow White is the original fairytale by the German authors: Brothers Grimm, which was made in the 1800's. Walt Disney took this story and altered it to a more kid friendly version for all the family to watch and enjoy.
Monday 25th November 2024
The Golden Age:
L/O: to explore cinema in the 1930's
Main Differences: 1930's to Today
only 72 people.
Nickelodean cinemas - only cost 5 pennies.
segregation in cinemas
Drive-in theatres
Movie Palaces: offered for the upper/middle classes+, allowed everyone to visit.
Double Features: 2 feature films for the price of one ticket.
Newsreels and Cartoons: before the main feature film, cinemas showed newsreels and animated cartoons. Newsreels were short films that provided news and current events from around the world, cartoons were comedic and musical.
Intermissions: During the longer films, cinemas would often have an intermission half way through to stretch legs/restroom/refreshments.
Censorship: in many countries, films were subjected to censorship usually by government bodies or industry associations. Some films were edited or banned if inappropriate or offensive.
premiered in LA in late december 1937.
shown in two cinemas in New York and Miami in January 1938.
RKO then decided on a general release in February 1938.
In one London Cinema the film ran for over 1/2 a year.
this reflects the slower distribution pace of 1930's
Disney & RKO:
RKO were disney's distributor.
Disney signed a contract with RKO in 1935, to give them exclusive distribution rights.
RKO were a major studio, and its networked allowed disney's films to reach a larger audience.
RKO wanted to cut some stuff from Snow White.
Box Office:
grossed over $8M
had a budget of $1.5M
the film has continues to be rereleased and has grossed and estimate of $418M worldwide
Monday 2nd December 2024
Exhibition/Circulation
L/O: to explore Disney's Exhibition Strategy.
Why was Snow White successful:
Innovation: the first. full length feature animated film. A significant technological and artistic development at the time. Audiences amazed by technical innovations such as Cel animation and multi-plane camera.
Storytelling: engaging and accessible to audiences of all ages. Based on a well-known fairytale. which made it familiar and characters were charming and likeable
Music: The films score had several memorable songs - made by Frank Churchill and Larry Morey. Heigh Ho and Whistle While you work. Became popular hits.
Marketing: Marketing was extensive and effective. Disney used a variety of promotional techniques, including trailers, posters and tie-in merchandise, to generate interest and anticipation
Reception: The film was well received by critics, who praised its technical achievements and storytelling. Positive reviews helped to generate positive word-of-mouth.
Merchandisng executive Kay Kamen started and extensive marketing campaign a year before snow white's release. manufacturing toys and other themed items that were on shelves. months before the Film's release.
painted figurines were made.
After snow white:
More feature films, Expansion into television, Theme Parks, Acquisition of other companies, Digital & Streaming.
Merchandise:
Synergy:
Disney & McDonalds - McDonalds offering Disney themed dolls in Happy Meals.
Soundtrack:
Soundtrack released several times since 1937.
- Original 1937/8 soundtrack after film release
-1987 - 50th anniversary - remastered & original
- 2015 legacy collection soundtrack - special edition & remastered, behind the scenes content
- many vinyl releases - limited release in 2017
- Digital releases
Re-release strategy:
-1944: boost morale during WW2 & new generation of children
-1952 - double feature with Alice in wonderland - new generation of kids
-1967: 30th anniversary celebration - new promotional campaign & merch tie ins
- 1983: double feature with Mickey's Christmas Carol - coincides with films 50th anniversary
-1993: 56th anniversary - promotes upcoming release on VHS and Laserdisc
-2016: special event - 79th anniversary. Special introduction by Walt's daughter
Home Release:
- VHS - 1994
- DVD - 2001, special features, restored
- Blu-Ray - 2009, high-def, new range of special features
- Digital: for purchase & rental, platforms like iTunes, Amazon, Prime Video, Google play.
- 4k Ultra HD - 2019, special features & bonus content
How has Disney maintained audiences:
- Nostalgia
- Timeless Storytelling - classic fairytale,
- Groundbreaking Animation
- Memorable characters and music
- Disney's Brand - trusted by parents
Live action remakes:
- breathes new life into Snow white and characters and classic stories
- leverage existing IP
- A response to the changing film industry, captures audience attention and builds brand identity.
- nostalgia
Friday 6th December 2024
Contexts
L/O: to explore regulation & contexts of 1930s
BBFC - regulates film in the UK
U, PG, 12, 12A, 15, 18, 18A
Looks for: language, violence, nudity, how realistic it is.
In the US, they had the Hays code - introduced 1930 - to regulate film content and uphold moral standards. created by the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America - MMPDA. The code aimed to eliminate content that was considered immoral and offensive, such as depictions of violence, sexuality, and profanity. Code was enforced through self-regulation with a Code Administration Office responsible for approving films for release.
Snow White was produced in accordance with the Hays Code. The film contains no controversial or offensive material. However, the film did push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in animated films at the time, particularly in terms of its dark and scary scenes.
In Britain, film censorship was governed by the British Board for Film Censorship, established in 1912. Responsible for reviewing and classifying films according to their content and appropriateness for different age groups. Films were given classifications such as U (universal, suitable for all ages), A (Adults Only), or X (Restricted to viewers over 16 years old). The board also had the power to cut or ban films that were deemed to be offensive or harmful.
Snow white was classified as a U in Britain. However, the board did raise concerns about the film's scary scenes, particularly the scenes featuring the Evil Queen. As a result, the film was given a warning that it might not be suitable for very young children.
Both American and British regulations had an impact on the production and distribution of Snow White. While the film was able to navigate these regulations, it reflects the limitations and restrictions placed on film makers at the time.
Contexts:
how media products studied differ in institutional backgrounds and use of media language to create meaning and construct representations to reach different audiences and can act as a means of:
- reflecting social, cultural and political attitudes towards wider issues and beliefs.
- constructing social, cultural and political attitudes towards wider issues and beliefs.
How media products can act as a means of reflecting historical issues and events
can be an agent in facilitating social, cultural and political developments.
how they are influenced by social, cultural, political and historical contexts
how they reflect their economic contexts through production, financial and technological opportunities and constraints.
Economic Contexts in Snow White:
- production costs, revenue streams, merchandising, and the film's historical significance.
1. production costs: released in 1937, first full length feature film. at the time it was groundbreaking and ambitious. Production costs were reportedly around $1.5M, significant investment in that era.
2. revenue stream: critical and commercial success. highest grossing film of its time. earning over $8M at the box office during its initial release. The films success contributed to Disney's financial stability and allowed the company to expand further into the animation industry.
3. Merchandising: Paved the way for the merchandising empire: toys, books, clothing
4. Historical significance: Holds immense historical significance as the first feature length animated film.
5. Long term impact: set the foundation for Disneys films and brand identity.. continues to generate revenue through re-releases, home video sales and licensing deals.
Historical & Economic:
- Dominance of Hollywood majors: release strategies reflect changes
- sources of income
-Proliferation of Technology: Audience expectations
proliferation
/prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/
noun
- rapid increase in the number or amount of something.
- Disney's involvement
Shang Chi & The Legend Of The Ten Rings
L/O: to explore the set texts.
1)
2) A film made to make money to produce other films
Blockbuster: high production values, high budget, well known actors, released during movie going period, strong marketing, generates high revenue
became cultural phenomena.
Marvel Cinematic Universe:
interconnected superhero films
Cohesive approach to story telling - more interconnected.
Characters: marvel has a wide range of characters with personalities and abilities. come from the comic books. Characters are developed over time.
Tone: MCU known for humor & wit. It is light hearted and not taken too seriously.
Box Office Success: consistently successful.
Legacy Character:
a character whose identity is passed down to them from and older character in the form of a title, job ir persona
spider-man no way home: several legacy characters.
Shang-Chi:
Origin Story - introduces the character of Shang Chi. Explores new themes & ideas, such as family, identity and cultural heritage
CUltural Representation - first film to have an Asian lead superhero. Diverse cast and crew
Action Sequences - features some of the most visually stunning and innovative action sequences in the MCU. incorporates martial arts, acrobatics and CGI.
Villains - compelling and complex villain - Wenwu.
Connections to the MCU - connects to the wider MCU in several ways. Cameo from a well-known Marvel character. Sets up potential future storylines and connections to other MCU films.
Main Characters:
Shang-Chi
Wenwu
Katie
Xu Xialing
Narrative
Shang-Chi's father Wenwu, the leader of the Ten Rings terrorist organisation, hunts down Shang-Chi and his sister Xialing into a search for their mothers village. Shang Chi and Xialing defend the village. Shang-Chi is new owner of the Ten Rings. Dragon vs Soul Taker.
Themes:
Family
Culture
good vs evil - blue/purple vs red/orange
fiction & mythical creatures
Representations:
Asian Culture & Characters
Language
Martial Arts
Opening scene subtitled
Gender:
Male & Female equal in power - Female was more skilled & overpowered him.
Male hungry for power
Women represented as feminine
Heteronormative:
Katie & Shang Chi
Wenwu & Ying li
Changes in film industry:
CGI intensive
Animation
Longer Films
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