Slap

Slap is a short film where a teenage boxer must finally come to terms with his true nature and confront standards of masculinity.


Narrative
Linear


Representation
Deals with masculinity and femininity and labels in society. The main character is shown struggling with self identity - this is emphasised through ambiguity and enigma. The film causes the audience to try and label the character, however by the end of the film we realise that people don't have to fit into specific labels.


As is longer able to use non stereotypical characters - creates a more interesting film


Mise-en-scene
Many stereotypical masculine posters and objects in background etc. This frames the main character and creates a contrast e.g. nuts magazine & makeup. Contrast between masculine body and feminine makeup.


Social realism (?)
Style - natural lighting
16 mm film - gritty
not traditional Hollywood narrative structure


Micro elements
Tracking, rock music -> framed with nuclear power station
masculine working class, empowered man dressed as woman


Slow motion during confrontation - long takes - close ups emotions


Inspiration
Overall I felt that the theme of the film is what made it so poignant, it is a real life issue that many people struggle with. When planning the story for my short film I will have to consider whether I want to do a comedic short therefore using stereotypical characters (better for the restricted time format of the shorts) or tackling a more complex issue; however in the limited time set out in the brief I wouldn't be able to fully develop these characters.