British Social Realism – From Documentary to Brit Grit by Samantha Lay

Social Realism in the British Context



Form and Style

Within social realist texts, define the term ‘form’.

The term ‘form’ indicates the modal method or shape that exists within social realist texts. Furthermore, it also relates to the types and kinds and in particular to the arrangement of parts.

Define the term ‘Style’ and how is it employed in social realist texts?

The term ‘Style’ is referenced by the aesthetic devices, such as artistic and creative choices the film-makers can implement. The specific formal and stylistic techniques that are implemented by the film-maker are used to capture, comment on and critique the wheels of society.

What may be informed by Practice, politics and content?

The Style and Form elements within a text may be informed by practice, politics and content.

What does Lay say the four levels of ‘form’ are?

Lay states that the four levels of ‘form’ are:
1.     Social realism is a form of realism
2.     ‘Form’ in terms of social realism is a consideration of the variety of natural artistic forms of practices and techniques, which are implemented.
3.     ‘Form’ in its entirety, is considered by many film theorist to be exactly an issue of ‘form’.  Therefore, it is a term that enables a viewer to distinguish between fantasy or avant garde, experimental film, animation.
4.     The way social realist texts work is different to more mainstream products.

Is there any distinction between film and television?

There is still much contention as to whether any distinction between film and television should be drawn. John hill (1999) states “any distinctions between television and film might be abandoned since all cinema, has become dependent on television and video for funding and revenues”.  However, on the other hand James Park (1990) had previously said that “British cinema has failed because its ambitions are too small and too televisual”.

Why do some film-makers see television as an important medium for social realist texts?

Some film-makers see television as an important medium for social realist texts as most television channels have a particular ethos. The BBC’s ethos is to inform, educate and entertain. Some television channels use a stacking system at different viewing times, by airing several programmes one after another, that are in fact recognised from within the same genre.

           Director Ken Loach appreciated this when realist plays were aired on a particular night (Wednesday) directly after the news. He stated “We were very anxious for our plays not to be considered dramas but as continuations of the news”. Therefore, in hindsight the realism of the play directly followed the social reality of the news.