Question 1

What films are studied in 'Content of Contemporary Lives (01)'?

Accepted Answer

The OCR specification suggests a range of contemporary films from 2010 onwards, such as 'The Social Network' (2010), 'Lady Bird' (2017), 'The Florida Project' (2017), and 'Eighth Grade' (2018). Your school may choose different titles, but all will focus on modern life, identity, and social issues. Check with your teacher for the exact list you need to study.

Question 2

How do I analyse representation in contemporary films?

Accepted Answer

Start by identifying which social groups or identities are shown (e.g., teenagers, immigrants, women). Then examine how film techniques (camera angles, dialogue, costume) create a particular portrayal. Ask: Is the representation stereotypical or subversive? Does it challenge or reinforce societal norms? Always link your analysis to the film's contemporary context—for example, how does the film reflect modern debates about gender or technology?

Question 3

What is the difference between contemporary and historical film contexts?

Accepted Answer

Contemporary contexts focus on the time when the film was made and set (usually the last 15 years), addressing current issues like social media, climate change, or mental health. Historical contexts involve films set in the past, where you analyse how the film represents that era. For 'Content of Contemporary Lives', you only need to consider the modern world, but you may compare how a contemporary film references historical events.

Question 4

How can I improve my essay structure for this topic?

Accepted Answer

Use the PEEEL structure: Point (your argument), Evidence (specific film example), Explanation (how the technique creates meaning), Effect (on the audience), and Link (back to the question or contemporary context). For example: 'In 'Lady Bird', the use of handheld camera (evidence) creates a sense of teenage restlessness (explanation), making the audience feel her frustration (effect), which reflects the modern experience of adolescence (link).'

Question 5

Do I need to remember quotes from the films?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but focus on key lines that reveal character or theme, not lengthy quotes. For example, in 'The Social Network', Mark Zuckerberg's line 'The internet's not written in pencil, it's written in ink' is useful for discussing digital permanence. Also, remember visual details (e.g., a character's room decor) as evidence. Aim for 2-3 specific references per film.

Question 6

How do I compare two contemporary films in the exam?

Accepted Answer

Choose a clear point of comparison, such as how both films portray family relationships or the use of technology. Use a comparative structure: introduce both films, then alternate between them in each paragraph, or discuss one film fully then the other. Always link back to the question and highlight similarities and differences in their representation of contemporary life.

Content of Contemporary Lives (01)

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

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Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Film Studies

3D film

Aesthetics

Characters

Cinematography (including lighting)

How to Revise Content of Contemporary Lives (01) — OCR GCSE Film Studies

Examiner Tips for Content of Contemporary Lives (01)

Key Marking Points