I, Daniel Blake Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is I, Daniel Blake in terms of genre and production type, and who directed it?
An award-winning independent British Drama, a low-budget social realist film directed by Ken Loach.
What are two key production conventions of Hollywood films?
Films mostly produced by large conglomerates (studio system).
Feature high production values, impressive visual effects, elaborate sets, and stunning cinematography (visual spectacle).
What are two key narrative/character conventions of Hollywood films?
Often feature archetypal characters (hero, villain, mentor, etc.).
Tend to conclude with a happy or satisfying resolution for main characters.
What are two key production/funding conventions of independent films?
Much smaller budgets, often supported financially by public service broadcasters, film institutions, and charity funding.
May feature a raw or gritty aesthetic (low budget aesthetics).
What are two key narrative/thematic conventions of independent films?
Character-driven narratives, prioritizing development and intimate portrayals.
Often explore socially relevant issues or challenge prevailing norms (social commentary).
What are two key ending and distribution conventions of independent films?
May feature ambiguous or open-ended conclusions.
Often have limited theatrical releases, relying on film festivals, streaming platforms, or niche channels.
What are two key artistic/social conventions of independent films?
Tend to feature more diverse casts and perspectives (diversity and inclusion).
Filmmakers enjoy greater creative freedom and infuse work with a strong personal vision.
What is the primary priority for independent filmmakers regarding success?
Often prioritize critical acclaim and artistic integrity over box office profits, valuing recognition from film festivals and awards ceremonies.
What is the political message of I, Daniel Blake?
A strong political message about Britain in an age of government austerity and the welfare system.
What are key contextual details for I, Daniel Blake (release, co-production, cast)?
Released in 2016, UK/French co-production.
Cast made up of lesser known actors (e.g., Dave Johns, Hayley Squires).
Classed as independent due to low budget and unknown cast.
What is Ken Loach’s directorial philosophy?
Mainly practices social realism, representing ordinary working-class people’s lives and issues (unemployment, poverty).
His goal is to expose and educate people to societal issues, not just entertain or make money.
Name two disruptive marketing methods used for I, Daniel Blake.
Organized free (or ‘pay what you can’) screenings and talks in community centres.
Premiered in Newcastle (where set) to gain local support, rather than London.
Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn attended the London premiere, with people denied benefits asked to placard the event.
Name two more disruptive marketing methods for I, Daniel Blake.
‘Guerrilla marketing’: The film title was projected onto the Houses of Parliament and in various cities.
Ken Loach appeared on BBC Question Time to talk about the issues, giving the film extra credibility.
List two additional promotional strategies used for I, Daniel Blake.
Partnership with Trinity Mirror (Daily Mirror) for a marketing campaign, aligning with the paper’s left-wing views.
Used NomadiX Media’s iProjector for an outdoor campaign with quotes from the film.
What was the digital/social media promotion for I, Daniel Blake?
A video was released with public and political supporters, highlighted with the hashtag #WeAreAllDanielBlake.
Describe the Secret Cinema Youth screening for I, Daniel Blake.
Organised as part of their charitable campaign for first-time voters just before the 2017 general election.
Included talks from Ken Loach, performances, and food bank donation stalls.
What was the budget and box office performance of I, Daniel Blake?
Estimated production budget: Around £2 million (modest, received £300k from BFI).
Box Office: Grossed £11 million globally, performing well in Europe (especially France).
What was the critical success and BBFC rating for I, Daniel Blake?
Was Ken Loach’s most successful UK release ever, receiving widespread positive critic reviews and winning the renowned Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival.
Awarded a 15 certificate by the BBFC due to bad language and two notable scenes of emotional intensity (food bank, funeral).
