The document discusses the characteristics of blockbuster films, including having simple, globally appealing storylines and characters with simple motives. Blockbuster films are heavily marketed for their visual spectacle using CGI and special effects, with visual impact taking priority over dialogue. They are also marketed and franchised through related toys, games, clothing and other merchandise. The concept of "high concept" filmmaking is introduced, where films have simple narrative ideas designed for marketing and merchandising opportunities. It is debated whether this approach leads to less intelligent films and whether related merchandising exploits children. Blockbuster films are said to rely on an "impact aesthetic" where audiences admire the scale and detail of visuals and CGI effects.

1. While we wait to start ……. Can you remember, the four characteristics of a ‘Blockbuster’ film?

2. The four characteristics of a ‘Blockbuster’ film: Simple, easy to understand storylines with global appeal. Simple characters with simple motives. Marketed on their spectacular look (inc. CGI). Visual impact may be more important than the dialogue. Marketed as a ‘brand’ Franchising also includes toys, games, clothes, bed linen….

3. Unit FS2: Producers and Audiences. Aims of lesson: To study further the phenomenon of the ‘Blockbuster’ film in Hollywood. To consider the relevance of ‘High Concept’ film-making. To think about the ‘Impact Aesthetic’.

4. ‘ High Concept’ is the theory behind all this! ‘ High concept’ film-making means: A style of film-making based around simple narrative ideas – designed to fit into marketing and merchandising operations. ‘ High concept’ film-making is therefore a big aspect of Blockbuster films! Thinking of studio : keep things simple – makes lots of money! ‘ High-concept’ is now the driving force behind creative decision-making in most mainstream, Hollywood films.

5. So let me ask you…………. Does the production of ‘blockbuster’ films and ‘high-concept’ film-making…………… Lead to movies without ‘brains’? Does it have to mean films ‘dumb-down’ – and reduce quality? Does the merchandising aspect (tie-in toys, games….) exploit children?

6. The visual appeal of ‘Blockbuster’ films is often called the……… ‘ Impact Aesthetic’. This means the audience is invited to sit back and enjoy the sheer scale and impressive detail of the film. This is the so-called “wow” response factor! The audience admire the use of CGI – and how convincing it is. The appearance of a ‘star’ is often part of this ‘impact aesthetic’. In the following sequence from a ‘Blockbuster’ - grade your “Wow” factor out of ten….and name the ‘star’!

8. How important is the ‘Impact Aesthetic’ to you when you go to see a film?

9. ‘Blockbuster’ Group Task: Select your envelope. Read your task. Return to classroom at: Present your results to class at: