Media AS: January 2015

Friday 30 January 2015

Ill Manors soundtrack research

Ill Manors soundtrack research-

The Ill manors soundtrack is a British protest song about the riots that occurred all across England in 2011. The soundtrack was produced by the singer/songwriter Ben Drew also know as Plan B who is also the director of the movie Ill Manors. The track was released in the United Kingdom on 25 March 2012. Ill Manors received mostly positive reviews from music critics and peaked at number six on the UK Singles Chart. In October 2012, the song won the Q Award for Best Track. The tracks record label is Atlantic Records. Atlantic Records (Atlantic Recording Corporation) is an American record label best known for its numerous recordings of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, jazz, and hip hop

The whole idea or objective of the track was to inform society about the issue with today's youth and Plan B blames this on politics and society throughout the track. Plan B's perception of "society's failure to nurture its disadvantaged youth." However, as well as inform the audience the track also attempts to promote the ill manors movie from the music video which is a unique way to do so but has been criticised on numerous of occasions for supporting the stereotype that has been created by society and only giving society more of a valid reason and chance to target the troubled youth in estates. The music video puts across a very aggressive and violent image towards the youth so even though it has gained awards it has also equally gained hate and critics.

The song was first played on BBC Radio 1 on 27 February 2012. and immediately after was available for streaming online on YouTube and Soundcloud and this was a way to promote the movie itself and was successful in doing so. This is because it allowed Plan B's fans to recognize and realise the movie if they haven't already. The single was released as a digital download on 25 March 2012.

Overall, the soundtrack and music video both done very well and succeeded in following its purpose which is to promote the movie and inform people on the problems with damaged youth in society today.

Thursday 29 January 2015

Ill Manors Video - Questions

1.) How is it typical of a music video?

The Ill Manors music video contains many of the conventions of a typical music video. One convention that is typical is the fast pace editing, this is shown throughout the video and contains many different cuts in the video which creates a hype to the audience. Another key convention that this music video includes is the performance of the main artist. Plan B himself was the performer of his own music video. Another convention that was used is narrative Plan B told a story throughout the music video.

2.) How does it represent the London riots/rioters?

The music video does not in anyway condemn or support the riots it simply justifies it in a music video that protests their right. The representation from the video is that the youth today are damaged and troubled but the music video blames it on society and politics and justifies a reason for their behaviour from the riots. Although Plan B was looking for a different approach I think that he reinforces the stereotypes without wanting or meaning to. The video makes youth seem very violent and disturbed because it includes real footage from the rights and also cuts of youth behind Plan B holding fireworks and acting very aggressive. Their aggressive behaviour in the video intimidates the audience and may only give society more of a reason to outcast those people and see them as a danger when in actuality Plan B's aims were to portray them as youth that have been forced by society and politics, into the life they live of violence and trouble.

3.) What audience pleasure does it offer?

It offers the audience a sense of excitement because the audience watching the music video feel hyped and excited while watching youth in the music video acting aggressive. Also, the footage from the real riots makes people feel superior because they gain pleasure from watching others preform crime and cause havoc. Also it gives them pleasure because even though they aren't involved in the criminals' behaviour they still get that hyped vibe in which they wan't to be doing what they see because it seems fun and attractive.

4.) How does the music video help to promote the film?

The music video promotes the video very well because the music video has a narrative(tells a story) this is unique because most music videos are only made for entertainment but the Ill manors music video is good for two purposes, promoting the video and telling a story. The music video advertises the film because it gives across the same message that is given in Ill Manors which is the youth today are damaged by society. Also, the title of the music video is the title of the film so this instantly promotes the film. In the music video the title of the film is partially mentioned so tells the audience it is about what happens in society where kids are disadvantaged "because my mind is Ill" this is saying that the youths minds and way of thinking is damaged and destroyed by society and the government.

Thursday 22 January 2015

Photoshoot

Photo shoot planing-

1) Which of your main characters will appear on the front cover of your magazine?

'Terrance' the main character of the urban drama will be on the front cover of the magazine alone to show no support.

2) What image or images will you use for the double-page spread?

One image of the main character Terrance. A close up to show his face and the struggle within his eyes.

3) Write a shot list for the photo shoot. Make sure you plan a variety of camera shots you will look to capture - medium shots, close-ups etc.

Medium close up of Terrence

close up of Terrance

side shot of Terrance

extreme close up of Terrance's eyes

extreme close up of Terrance's mouth

4) What costume, props or make-up will you require for the photoshoot?

A hooded jumper for the main character to wear to show his type of style and his state no make up to show grittiness and struggle.

5) How will you make sure you have everything prepared for the photo shoot on Monday 26 January?

Plan everything well to ensure everything is ready to be made. Also, have a list of things to do for the photo shoot to make sure there is no confusion at the time. This will make sure everything runs smoothly.

Print Research

Print Research

Find at least 5 magazine covers aimed at a similar target audience to E4 and embed them on your blog. For each one, pick out one cover line that is similar to one you could use in your own magazine cover (e.g. an interview with a celebrity that also appeals to your target audience).

1 2 3

1.) This is a British urban magazine similar to my series. The front cover says many artists stage names on the corner to indicate that they will be part of the magazine "chipmunk"

2.)This magazine is similar to mine because it includes the urban features and artists. Also it says "the best rapper ever" so interacts with the audience and that is what I am looking to do.

3.) "Diddy finally speaks to us!" This would be similar to my own because I would want to also interview big celebrities.

4 5

4.) This urban magazine includes debates about rap and hip hop which interacts with their audience and that is something I am thinking about including in my print.

5.) The Vibe magazine shows what it consists of on the right corner so this lets the audience know what's inside "The Big List Isuue".

Souvenir magazine-

Wednesday 21 January 2015

Ill Manors trailer analysis

Ill Manors

1. What are the typical codes and conventions of film trailers - what information is usually provided?

The title is one key convention that is shown always and is clear so is put at the end or beginning of the trailer so the audience clearly identify it.
There is quotes at the very beginning of the trailer which is done to introduce the trailer and give people an insight on what it is about. The Ill Manors trailer says "we are all products of our environment"..."some environments are just harder to survive in" this is a convention/code that introduces the film because the audience instantaneously think about struggle and pain. Another key convention at the end of this trailer is the release date of the movie "June 6" this is vital because the audience who are interested want to know when the film is available in theatres and cinemas. Also one key convention which is a major advantage for them to have is the reviews/quotes from people or magazines. For example, "A film from our times" by Simon Baird this an advantage because it encourages people to watch it because of all the good comments and reviews it receives from people.

2. How are trailers distributed?

Trailers can be distributed in many different ways. One way of trailer distribution is through advertising on TV this is a key way to attracting the right audience because it would be advertised on the right channels i.e. Ill Manors on Channel 4. Another way of trailer distribution is in cinemas before a movie is projected many adverts are shown including trailers from different movies. YouTube is a key way to distribute trailers because it is used by billions of people all around the world so will be a good way to advertise trailers such as Ill Manors.

3. How does the Ill Manors trailer use trailer conventions?

One key convention in a trailer is the music in the trailer this has to be a vital part because it should always match the trailer and make the audience feel some emotions through it whether it be sympathy or excitement. Also another convention is the title Ill Manors that is shown and is a must in a trailer because the audience are then able to see what it is called and have it mind to watch it when it is out.

4. Who is the target audience? Does it have a unique selling point or use particular techniques to appeal to the audience? Consider the way the scenes are edited together – does the trailer give away any clues about the narrative? Are the main stars visible in the trailer? Is there information about the director of the film? Is there information about the release date? Is a narrator’s voice-over used? Why?

The core target audience is 15-25 for Ill Manors but there will still be people who watch it above or below this age range but 15-25 is the core audience that Ben Drew was aiming to reach. This clear because of all the content that was shown throughout the trailer and that is in the movie. There is weaponry, violence and drugs that are included throughout the whole movie. This instantly sets a minimum age of 15 years so that there is no debating whether or not this movie is appropriate. Although there is a high chance of the age range being broken it still needs to be set appropriately by the director of the movie. It has been set to an audience aged around mid twenty because the content in the movie will relate to an unsophisticated age group.

The narrative is very clear from the very beginning of the trailer because of the quote that informs the audience about today's society and how different environments show different struggles. Also the narrator of the trailer and film who is Ben Drew himself, the director of the movie speaks to the audience and tells them a story of today's youth and all the problems they face living in a troubled society. The trailer shows a very gritty view in a way which it tells a story because of its physicality and roughness.

The main stars and characters of the movie are shown on numerous of occasions due to the way the trailer is edited. The trailer allows many different shots and scenes from the movie to be all placed in one clip. The main stars of the film are shown in the clip but it also gives them all an equal part because it doesn't allow the audience to identify which one or two characters are shown the most throughout the movie. This creates suspense because the trailer is very action packed and filled with many different scenes from the movie.

5. How has the genre of the film been represented through characters, settings, lighting, colour, music/dialogue, camera shots/movements/angles and editing?

The genre of the movie is very clear and obvious from the trailer because of the props shown in the movie and throughout the trailer like guns, drugs and violence. Just from the props it is clear that this an crime drama. The language used in the trailer and the colloquial language tells the audience instantly that this is an urban British movie.

Also the setting of the movie is in the hood of East London shows it to be an estate. Almost all the locations in the trailer that are shown are all gritty and not glamorous which tells us instantly what the genre is because of the location which is a big part in identifying the type of genre it is. The lighting throughout the whole trailer isn't too bright and is very dull which tells the audience what the genre is about.

The camera shots seem to tell a story and tells the audience about the genre because they always seem to be close ups or medium close ups to show emotion and facial expressions which are very vital in a movie such as Ill Manors because it shows a lot of emotion in the struggle and pain that the youth go through on a daily basis which needs to be shown to let the audience know the characters' emotions and gives them an emotion to feel toward the characters and the movie.

Tuesday 20 January 2015

MEST2 Print brief

MEST2 Print brief-

"Write a detailed analysis of this Doctor Who magazine front cover using the 12 key conventions from the notes. For each one, explain the purpose of the convention and the effect or impact it has on the audience."

1.) Title of publication-

The purpose of this is to inform the audience of the title.The title is usually placed on the top third in this case 'Doctor Who' is placed in the middle at the top. The title is slightly covered by the main characters head which looks professional but also isn't covered too much so the audience can figure out what it says. Also if the audience can figure it out it give them a sense of achievement and satisfaction. The design of the title attracts the audience because of it's professionalism and also shows the tile on the top third clearly to show the audience what it is and shows people the title because of its popularity and well established show which is recognised.

2.) Slogan-

A slogans purpose is to catch the audience and is usually short and snappy so it's likely to stick in the audiences' head. In the Doctor Who print the slogan is 'The Day Of The Doctor' this slogan is placed under the title clearly because it is catchy and short. The impact it has on the audience is major because it catches them and stays in their head because of the use of the alliteration makes it snappy which excites the audience that read this.

3.) Central Image-

The central image is the core of all print magazines because it is the image that attracts their audiences. The Doctor Who print shows the main character and with two other characters beside him all making eye contact with the audience in a mysterious way. The characters' features are all clearly shown on the central image showing their eyes and mouths to show their emotion to the audience.

4.) 'Flash'-

There is a series of different Flash's put around the print to advertise different things these are the main articles or pages in the magazine which attract the audience because their core audience will know and will be following up the programme so may find things that will attract them and make them want to read about the main flash's that are placed all around the print magazine.

5.) Free Offer-

On the top right corner of the Doctor Who print shows free items with the magazine. It clearly says 'INSIDE!' in bold to attract the the audience because free items always excite people. Also it says inside instead of Free because it lets the potential customers know it is inside the magazine and if they want this they have to buy the magazine to gain what is 'inside'.

6.) Colour Scheme-

The colour scheme is essential and really differentiates a professional print to an amateur print magazine. If the colours make the magazine cover seem too busy with too much colour this will disengage the audience because there is no professionalism within it. In the case the Doctor Who magazine sticks to a maximum of three different colours which are black white and grey. The advantage which makes this look more professional is that it all the colours that are included are similar dull colours which go together very well.

7.) Name Checks-

These are the names of the main stars written on the magazine cover this attracts the Doctor Who fans because they will know the characters' names because of their loyalty as fans. In this case 'Matt Smith' and 'David Tennant' who are famous stars this will attract more customers because it makes them want to read what they have to say which will force them to invest money in the magazine.

8.) Language-

This is all the words around the cover which should be short and snappy to engage the audience without dragging on. For example, in the Doctor Who magazine print you can see language devices I.e. alliteration 'Day Of The Doctor' this is snappy and short and doesn't involve any unnecessary words which would waste space but also disinterest customers. 'Anniversary Art' is another use of alliteration that attracts peoples eyes because of the clever word play which will make customers want to see this 'Art'.

9.) Competitions-

These are placed around the print to grab customers because customers are always into winning things and are competitive in beating people to it. The Doctor Who print shows prizes to be won at the bottom of the cover this helps interact with the audience because it connects with them directly which will make them feel more satisfied with the interaction and attention they're shown by the people who are involved with Doctor Who. Also if they win they will feel more satisfied with this and will feel as if they are experts or more intelligent which will make them loyal customers and will make them buy their magazines on a regular basis or as part of their routine weekly or monthly depending on how often the magazine is out.

10.) Direct Address & Asking Questions-

The way Doctor Who interact with their audience is by informing them about their 50th anniversary they tell them that they are celebrating this and by informing at the top clearly this will make the audience feel as if they are celebrating this together and will make them feel special because they feel as if this was directed at them and for them which will give them satisfactory and persuade them to buy the magazine for them to be involved with this anniversary.

11.) Bar code, Date & Price-

This always placed in the corner of the magazine. The price is usually placed at the bottom corner at the back of the magazine in small this takes the attention away from the price so the customer is able to look at the magazine well before they put it down so they are able to convince them. However, when the price is on offer or is cheaper than usual they will put it in big and bold to show it is cheap which will attract customers because they seem to love offers and deals associated with the magazine. The bar code is always placed on the bottom because it is only used to scan in retailers so it can be bought and shouldn't really effect the customer but should always be small so it doesn't take up much space from the front cover which will waste space.

12.) The 'Real' Target Audience-

The Doctor Who magazine is generally aimed at the Doctor Who fans and people who follow the programme regularly because they will be the people who are willing to spend and invest money into their products. This won't cause conflict because Doctor Who is a programme that attracts many different ages so won't cause heat and debates with the content that is shown.

Monday 19 January 2015

Ill Manors Review

Ill Manors Review-

Ill Manors is a British urban crime drama directed by the rapper and songwriter Ben Drew also known as Plan B. The movie is based around what the artist and director Plan B has seen in his life and what happens daily in the ghetto. The movie revolves around drugs, weapons, sex and violence.

Ill Manors is directed very intelligently because it incorporates many different things into the film. For example, Ben Drew often narrated the drama by rapping and writing songs to narrate what was happening at that time which is very smart because it engages the audience with the music but also tells a story. The introduction of the movie is calm and doesn't show much violence or drama and shows numerous shots of drug dealers bagging up cocaine and dealing while the narrator Ben Drew raps and narrates the movie. Ben Drew also promotes his music through his movie because people will enjoy and like his rapping in the movie so will probably listen to his music after his movie.

The movies main purpose I think is to entertain but also inform the audience about everything around them and what happens in society and in today's youth. One scene showed a classic example of gang culture where one of the boy named Jake standing with his friends who wants to buy drugs from the usual drug dealers. Jake helps his friend and goes to buy some marijuana from the drug dealers but they take his money and told him he will only get it if he beats his friend up. This forces him to do this to get what he wants he accepts and does so. After he does this the main gang leader is impressed and decides to bring young Jake into his gang. This scene shows a classic example of gang culture when the new comer has to preform something to impress the rest of the gang to join them. Ben Drew informs the audience about what usually happens behind closed doors. This makes Jake seem a lot more innocent than he is because it shows that he was forced to do this but this isn't normally shown and society aren't aware of this so Jake would normally gain more weight and punishment than he deserves.

“She was once a princess, Now she’s a mess,” we’re told of Michelle, who’s a woman who owes money for a lost phone and is forced to prostitute around various shops including fast food shops to corner shops by a dealer called Ed. This shows the danger of these drug dealers because the woman is afraid so prostitutes to pay back what she owes. This also shows the audience their desperation for money so result to many unusual things. There is a twist in this because they soon realise she isn't responsible for the lost phone so has suffered for nothing. This makes Aaron the main character feel guilt but his partner Ed feels nothing at all and laughs. Aaron tells Ed to give her the money that she suffered for but Ed refuses this part is essential because it shows the dealers actions and this is linked by their punishments at the end of the film. Aaron shows kindness and care throughout the movie and shows a lot of emotion while the other drug dealers aren't as bothered by their actions.

Ed also sells a baby that Aaron found on the train this shows how desperate they are because they will go through extreme measures for money and once again Aaron shows emotion and is hesitant to this idea and isn't willing to sell the child. In the end Ed manages to convince him with his slick words the mother of the child finds Aaron and he does many things in his power to try and get the child back. The last third of the movie is full of drama that is all brought together into the pub when Ed dies trying to do a good deed of saving the child but suffers death due to his past actions. On the other hand Aaron is able to travel to find his parents who abandoned him from an early age and goes on to live a normal life due to his goodness in character. The whole film shows that there is many things that happen behind the scenes that society aren't aware of. For example, although Aaron was a drug dealer at first he shows a goodness in heart which people aren't usually aware of because of the gritty crimes that characters like this commit.

Ben Drew then makes an intelligent appearance at the end of the film when Aaron is in a cab going to meet his birth parents and Ben Drew is the cab driver and his face is shown in the rear view mirror which is a very good way to round off the movie.

Overall, the movie shows a sense of change in Urban dramas due to narrating and plot twists that occur in the movie. The movie is very intriguing and grabs the audience from the very beginning and informs the British audience on many issues that happen on a daily basis in the ghettos of Britain.

Sunday 18 January 2015

ILL MANORS PLAN

PLAN

Ben Drew the director of the film is also known as the rapper/artist Plan B. Ben Drew is an urban artist so his film reflects to his life and what he's seen during his life. Ben Drew's songs are often written by him describing what he says daily and usually puts his emotion through his music and the film is another way in how he does this.

Ben Drew has previously been involved in films similar to his i.e. Adulthood which is also a British Urban drama. Ben Drew acted in Adulthood which was a pretty big hit and was very successful so this may have inspired him to make his movie 'ILL MANORS'.

The movie is an urban drama and it definitely fits my expectation especially because the genre really reflects on the content they showed including weapons, sex, drugs and violence which is clearly what most urban drama's are about. The mood of the movie was often dull, serious or dramatic because of the genre which effects the mood.

In my opinion this is a very good low budget movie and has brought a lot of success to Ben Drew as a director. The actors in the movie aren't known and are normal people this made the movie better because you can see that this is real life for them. Also, this is an advantage for Ben Drew because he didn't have to pay much to them unlike if he had real professional actors.

The movie is a classic urban drama that involves explicit content like sex, drugs and violence. The movie is about how drug dealers get by on a day to day basis and all the drama that is attached to the life they have chosen.

The main target audience for this movie I think would have to be people aged 15-35 and that are aware of the street life meaning they know all the colloquial language used and they understand the lifestyle that these characters are portraying. Also this may be aimed at people that are similar to the characters so they may be able to relate to their lifestyle so may enjoy watching the movie.

The soundtracks in the movie were usually narrating the story and what was happening at that moment which was very intelligent because it was different and really engaged the audience. Also, this promoted Ben Drew's music in his movie and many may have liked or enjoyed the soundtracks that were played.

Introduction to media index