A recap of what you need to be considering when analysing a clip...

Here is a recap on exactly what you need to be looking at when analysing clips...

For the textual analysis it's important to tie in the 3 elements of a good answer. These are:
1- Identify the technical and stylistic elements but remember that they work together to create meaning.
2- Analyse the effect of these elements on the meaning.
3 - Link back to the idea of representation.


Technical and stylistic codes

Remember that TV drama wants to create two types of reality; REAL REALITY and ALTERNATIVE REALITY. The first is an attempt by programme makers to develop a feeling that you're watching something real and easily recognised. Eastenders, The Street and Shameless all fall into this category. The second includes shows like Dr Who, Being Human and Primeval. The category can effect the stylistic and technical elements found within the show. For example the Dr Who extract from last year's exam featured CGI, dramatic non-diegetic lighting effects, CGI transitions, futuristic costume and the like.

You must never just feature-spot. The examiner knows, for example, that it's a low angle long shot of a man running in a wood in the dark with the diegetic sound of men shouting off camera. What they want you to tell them is why you think it's there. What is the effect and impact of that combination of features to the overall representation in the clip? You have to think about the effects of these elements. It's worth reminding yourself of some of the elements you might find (all the glossaries I have given you) but remember the number of technical elements used in conventional British TV drama is limited.