A2 media studies

1. Research- Gangster Film

2. Conventions of Gangster
Films
• Use of dull, bland and dark colours- e.g: Blacks and greys
• Low level lighting
• Setting of the film is commonly in Cities
• Men typically wear formal attire- e.g: suit and tie
• Women typically wear feminine attire which is normally shades of reds or
pinks
• Consists of violence, strong drug use, usage of guns, large amounts of
money
• Viewed as an ‘American Dream’- to be rich and prosperous and hold a lot
of power

3. Characters
• Main Characters
• Top Gangster
• Gangsters wife
• Members of his family/crime family
• Members of rival gang
• Police/FBI
• Minor Characters
• Children
• Mistress

4. More about Characters…
• They stereotypical have a foreign background which is normally Italian
• Short tempered, act from impulse, macho, violent nature
• Families follow a hierarchical structure
• The importance of the gangsters mothers- ‘The Krays’: importance of Violet Kray
who lives solely for her sons, she fuels them to be ambitious that they feel the
need to prove themselves to her which they do by pampering her.

5. Narrative Themes
• Family- associated with loyalty
• Obedience/authority
• Police/politicians are corrupt or unable to maintain the law and order
• Men should be strong, women should be forgiving
• Betrayal
• Rivalry