1. Quadrophonia – 1979
Discuss the representation and ideological values of Jimmy, Steph, and
Kevin. Use textual examples to back up your point made.
Jimmy Cooper
Representation / Ideological Values Textual proof
Mod – Suits, moped scooter, parka,
drugs etc.
Throughout the film, Jimmy refers to
himself as a mod numerous times. He
also rides on his scooter until almost
the end of the film when it is broken
up. He also wears a parka and buys
drugs with his severance money.
Teenage Angst Frequently throughout the film, more
specifically after being put out by his
parents, Jimmy is shown to go through
a lot of teen angst. This can be proved
with shots showing him sitting in the
rain, with his bag on the back of his
scooter.
‘Not normal’ This is said multiple times by Jimmy’s
parents, when he comes in late at night
or early in the morning. His dad also
makes a comment about his ‘mod’
lifestyle aswell.
2. Steph
Representation / Ideological Values Textual Proof
Easily influenced Before Steph started hanging around
with Jimmy and his friends. Her
original boyfriend in the film is one of
the mods, except that he doesn’t do
drugs.
Sexual Freedom The movie is set in 1965, which further
proves this point. The introduction of
the female contraception pill meant
that girls could be more free with their
sexualities, as opposed to if there was
just the condom.
Unloyal Steph is shownthroughout the film to have
three different ‘boyfriends’. These are:
Peter
Jimmy
Dave
3. Kevin
Representation / Ideological Values Textual Proof
Rocker Kevin is first seen in the film in the
bath next to Jimmy’s, as they have a
contest to see who can sing the loudest.
Later, when they meet up at a local
café, he is shown to wear leather, have
a quiff hairstyle, and ride a motorbike.
All of these are Rocker things to have /
do,
Later, he is beaten up (and possibly
killed) by Jimmy’s other friends for
being a Rocker.
Indifferent He is quoted to say that ‘we’re [Mods
and Rockers] all the same underneath.
Wanting to belong. Be the same as
everyone else.’
This shows that he doesn’t care about
people’s style or preferences.
