Question 1

How do I analyse context in a film without just describing history?

Accepted Answer

Focus on how context directly influences the film's narrative, characters, and visual style. For example, if discussing the Cold War context of 'The Thing from Another World' (1951), don't just list Cold War events. Instead, analyse how the film's paranoia about an alien infiltrator mirrors fears of communist spies, and how the military characters represent American authority. Always link context to specific scenes or shots.

Question 2

What's the difference between social context and cultural context?

Accepted Answer

Social context refers to the structures and relationships in society, such as class, gender roles, and family dynamics. Cultural context includes the shared beliefs, values, art, and media of the time. For example, in 'Rebel Without a Cause' (1955), social context includes the rise of teenage consumerism and the nuclear family, while cultural context includes rock 'n' roll music and the 'teenager' as a new cultural identity.

Question 3

Do I need to know the exact year a film was made?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should know the release year and the key events of that period. However, you don't need to memorise every date. Focus on the broader era (e.g., 1970s, 1990s) and major trends. For example, knowing that 'Jaws' was released in 1975 helps you link it to post-Watergate distrust of authorities and the emerging summer blockbuster phenomenon.

Question 4

How can I remember context for multiple films?

Accepted Answer

Create a context grid for each film: list the year, key social/historical events, institutional details (studio, budget, censorship), and how these appear in the film. Use flashcards with a film on one side and contextual points on the other. Practice linking each contextual point to a specific scene or technique.

Question 5

What if a film's setting is in a different time period than when it was made?

Accepted Answer

You need to consider both contexts. For example, 'The Duchess' (2008) is set in the 18th century but made in 2008. Analyse how the film reflects 21st-century views on gender equality (e.g., the protagonist's struggle for independence) while also depicting the historical context of the 1700s. This dual analysis can earn high marks.

Question 6

Can I use context in the analysis of a single film extract?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. In the exam, you may be given a short extract to analyse. You can discuss how the extract's mise-en-scène, sound, or editing reflects the film's broader context. For instance, if the extract shows a character using a specific technology, you can link it to the historical context of that technology's availability or symbolism.

Contexts

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Film Studies

3D film

Aesthetics

Characters

Cinematography (including lighting)

How to Revise Contexts — OCR GCSE Film Studies

Examiner Tips for Contexts

Key Marking Points