British Films Codes and Conventions By Francesca Keown

Codes and conventions of British Social Realism • Modern vs. Traditional • Different cultures • Location • Sexism • Alcoholism • Violence • Lighting • Less known actors

Modern vs. traditional-The print screen on the left shows the traditional culture that Jess’ family expect her to be following. However the print screen on the right shows the modern society. The fact that she is playing football which is a common and popular thing in Britain. Different Cultures Different cultures is another convention in British Indie Films. The print screen shows the Indian culture. It shows people having to be accepted and treated equality because of their religion.

Location-The print screen shows that they are playing football in a park. This is a simple and stereotypical British location. Many people go to parks and can relate to what they are doing in the film. They are not set in studios or nice places like Hollywood films. Sexism-This shot shows the mum cooking. This is stereotypical of female representation as people views on women are seen as they should be looking after their family by cooking, cleaning etc.

Alcoholism Alcohol is a common British Social Realist convention. It is a common thing that happens in Britain making it a relatable subject such as pub drinking. This is shown in the film Green Street. Violence British Social Realist films also use violence and other crimes such as gun crime, drugs and underage pregnancy because they are everyday issues. This is because they are usually situations that everyone can relate as it may be happening to them or someone else. Violence is a common situation and it seen in the film Green Street.

Lighting The lighting in British films are all very dull and boring colours like grey. This sets the scene of a serious mood. It also reflects on the British weather which is dull. This is reflected in the film Once. Less known actors British actors are also another convention of British Social Realist films. They use less well known actors because they cannot afford to use Hollywood actors due to a low budget. It also makes it look more realistic as they look like your everyday British person.