I, Daniel Blake (Theory)

Watch this video made by Mrs Fisher.  It outlines what you need to know in order to answer a question about the film industry.

It is clear that there is certain knowledge you need to know about how independent films are made and this film is your case study.

You may get a question like this;

 'Consider the significance of economic factors, including commercial and not-for-profit public funding, to media industries and their products'

Your answer will compare this film to 'Black Panther' which is a mainstream film.  This film was made without a concern for profit (Curran and Seaton)  Ideally the film will at least pay for itself through box office receipts and add ons such as streaming and DVD sales. However, the primary concern is the message in the film. The film-maker Ken Loach wants to expose the system that is causing the issues represented in the film. Therefore the primary purpose of the film is to raise awareness amongst audiences. This is different to the more commercial approach of a mainstream Hollywood film. 

'Vast financial profits might be less important for practitioners working in this genre of film' (EDUQAS)

You will be expected to apply Curran and Seaton's theory in your answer.

The film was funded by public bodies such as the BFI (through National Lottery Funding) and the, public service broadcaster, the BBC.  You will need to explain that these institutions have a remit to promote British culture and to 'educate, inform and entertain'. 

The film is also a collaboration between the UK and French film industries.  French audiences like Ken Loach films because they have a message and a purpose to represent important social issues. This is a key point in your answer. You could say that some French audiences see film as an art form whereas American audiences see film mainly as entertainment. We will explore this idea further by looking at streaming services. NETFLIX is mainstream whereas Curzon cinema or MUBI is more independent.

The film was popular at film festivals and won the coveted, 'Palme d’Or' at the Cannes film festival, which proves its popularity with European audiences. 

It was also nominated for many awards including several BAFTA's

In the next post we will concentrate on how the film is primarily aimed at an educated, media literate and socially aware audience but tries to broaden this appeal.  We will also look at whether it has been successful in its aim.