Tuesday, 22 November 2011

How is Ethnicity represented in this extract from Hotel Babylon?

Ethnicity is represented in a number of ways using micro elements throughout this clip, firstly with sound.

Sound is used to represent the french maid, diegetic sound is used when the maid say ''He pays double, for double.'' This makes the french maid seem sexualised, which is one of the parts to Alvarado's theory. Consequently, this conforms to the stereotype of french women being easy.

Diegetic sound is used again in the conversation between the black males, when they use the words ''Blud'' and ''Bro.'' This use of colloquial terms suggests unity between the two and their community, this is another part to Alvarado's theory.

Ethnicity is also represented with cinematography, using the positioning of the Japanese man. He is placed in the centre of the shot so the audience is drawn to him, he is also wearing a dressing gown. The dressing gown is a costume, which is an example of mise en scene. This combination of cinematography and mise en scene make the japanese man seem sexualised, which is a racial stereotype.

Positioning is used when the Italian and Englishman are standing opposite eachother, the rule of thirds is applied to this scene. The two males heads are placed in the top left and top right or the screen, and the two of them opposite eachother is used to convey conflict. The Italian is also holding a meat cleaver, which makes him seem dangerous. Overall, this scene makes Italian men seem dangerous and in conflict with other races.

1 comment:

  1. Superb opening paragraph on sound.

    Valid point on the second paragraph, but perhaps comment on a different sound technique?

    Don't forget to use the terms 'denote', 'connote' and 'signify' in your analysis as the examiner will give you marks for using them!

    Fantastic reference to Alvarado's theory, perhaps briefly sum it up so that you're demonstrating to the examiner that you know what his theory is.

    Greta comments and terminology used for cinematography, but you also mention costume which is Mise-en-scene. Mention Mise-en-scene in a paragraph by itself.

    Fantastic final paragraph on positioning. Remember, this is actually known as 'composition' and is a technique of cinematography. Make sure you use the words 'composition' and 'cinematography'.

    An excellent response Sam, keep up the excellent analysis - you know this stuff well and you're applying the P.E.E. structure to your paragraphs. You relate your explanation to (the final E) back to the question really well! Keep brushing up on your terminology too and keep on doing your homework!

    Mr. D

    ReplyDelete