Thursday 14 March 2013

Homework for Friday 15th March 2013


Task 1: 1975 The Rise of the Blockbuster: Social, 
Economic, Technological Context

Describe the rise of the cineplex and the resulting changes to film distribution?

Between the years of 1975 and 1985 was the establishment of the blockbuster, which resulted in the development of cineplexes. These had a large audience, and films became orientated around the genres of slasher films, youth films, space operas and slapstick comedies. This was also the beginning of many remakes such as Tarzan (1984) and Superman (1978). Films like Jaws have been revolutionary landmarks, in developing cineplexes into what they are today. Due to popular demand for these blockbusters, cineplexes have allowed people to see these movies on a larger scale by screening them at the same time on multiple screens. This has changed film distribution by becoming an establishment that runs largely publicised films, as apposed to a variety of independent films which take risks. This is because the blockbusters put in large amounts of money, but ensure the money can be made back through various methods such as partnerships with cineplexes and pre-established fan bases. With this rise in cineplexes, the smaller independent cinemas have been forced into bankruptcy. 

Discuss the phenomenon as a contributing factor in the rise of the blockbuster.

The rise of the blockbuster is down to several reasons. The first being the developments in technology, which has evolved from such films as Jaws (1975), with the mechanics of the great white shark. We also see the development of Computer Generate Images (CGI) starting in films like Star Wars (1977). In having the phenomenon of cult films provides a pre-established audience and a guaranteed demand, allowing for a higher likeliness to generate profit. This can also be done through the many features the franchise or film establishes, such as toys, games and merchandise.

Task 2

The following link will take you to the full scale version of our mind map: http://www.xmind.net/m/pkFz/

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