Thursday, 7 November 2013

Representation in the Video



What issues of representation are found in the video?

Female representation conventions that are in the video:
·         Character is concerned about appearance
·         Lighting includes colours associated with women?
·         Atmosphere / mise-en-scene – most of the locations/deco is feminine orientated
·         Sound – song fits into Riot Girl genre, so female lead fits & corresponds

Countertypes in the video:
·         Female lead – unusual?
·         Independent – one of the only characters shown
·         Camera angles – often straight on and up close – direct – you are on the same level and forced to interact? Has to be taken seriously
·         Complex character – emotions are conveyed through actions/sound/lighting
·         Lighting also includes stronger colours – not often associated
·         There is no male gaze – character is not objectified
·         Image/appearance of the video is controlled by the woman

Age representation conventions that are in the video:
·         Lighting – vibrant and exciting / energetic
·         Sound – towards the end, the song gets louder and faster – also fits into representation that young people are energetic and loud
·         The song could also be interpreted as loud/offensive towards the end – young people can be the same?

Countertypes in the video:
·         Character doesn’t do bad / irresponsible things in the video
·         A lot of the video is filmed in the home – young people are often associated with streets etc.
·         Camera – stays still most of the time – counteracts energetic stereotype