FM2 Section C: Comparative Study
For this section of the exam paper it is important to directly answer the question by referring to film sequences from ‘Badlands’ & ‘Natural Born Killers’. It is also essential that you use film language (mise-en-scene/camera etc) and make use of key issues such as narrative and genre conventions.
*Mention other films: 'Bonnie & Clyde', 'Wild At Heart', 'True Romance', 'Gun Crazy'
- The names of the film’s directors and the year of the release is mentioned early on
- The question is addressed in the opening paragraph
- The keywords in the question are referred to throughout the essay
- Good detailed reference to the film has to be at the core of any answer. Try to use sequences.
- This must have some indications of the use of film language – mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing, sound and music.
- If you don’t do this many examiners will view your information as mere description.
- If the question has the word narrative in the title – you must refer to narrative. Use the language to underpin this – i.e. resolution, closure, structure, cause and effect, pace, linear/non-linear. Anunderstanding of narrative and the way it functions should be at the centre of your response.
- Representation is also an issue that should be employed in your answers. This could focus on individuals, groups, location, America or gender.
- If necessary also refer to genre; in terms of conventions, iconography and expectations.
- Wider contexts need to be employed in your answer. How are these films American? What influence does the time in which they were made have on these films? What events are they based upon?
- You must compare and contrast these films directly. Look for points where these films sharedistinctive elements and also if possible where they differ.
- Give your own opinions of the films – linked to what needs to be discussed in terms of the question. Support with reference to the films.
- Try to ‘think outside the box’. Candidates who offer more thought provoking responses tend to get higher marks.
- Write a short conclusion that draws you and the examiner back to the terms of the question. Remember that this is the last thing that they will read before they put a mark down.
- Three to five sides should assure quality and quantity.
*Mention other films: 'Bonnie & Clyde', 'Wild At Heart', 'True Romance', 'Gun Crazy'
Key Themes
Characters
One approach to reflecting upon the question is to focus upon specific characters rather than trying to cover them all. Although the couples are central to the themes of the film, minor characters play significant roles in developing the binary oppositions at the core of the films themes.
Sequences
Another way of comparing the films is by comparing key sequences and fitting them to the questions. You should do this by giving the examiner a sense of each sequence filmically and not descriptively. Openings, complications, climaxes and resolutions make ideal discussion points, as they tend to draw upon the key issues.
- The ‘American Dream’ – something everybody can attain; ‘pop’ icons, mirroring or copying
- Dysfunctional Family - A result of unrealistic ideological beliefs
- Rootlessness – The characters have no ‘roots’ or ties to any family, for a variety of reasons, and they embark upon a ‘road trip’ to sustain their love.
- Modern Fairytale – The films present a highly romanticized view of what it is to be in love. Love conquers all, overpowers obstacles and anything is morally acceptable to maintain the relationship.
- Animalistic Nature: Trapped/Freedom – notions within their environments and the characters situation. There is a constant struggle between these opposing issues to maintain the partnership.
Characters
One approach to reflecting upon the question is to focus upon specific characters rather than trying to cover them all. Although the couples are central to the themes of the film, minor characters play significant roles in developing the binary oppositions at the core of the films themes.
Sequences
Another way of comparing the films is by comparing key sequences and fitting them to the questions. You should do this by giving the examiner a sense of each sequence filmically and not descriptively. Openings, complications, climaxes and resolutions make ideal discussion points, as they tend to draw upon the key issues.