MEDIA P2 CSP DEATIL (D83) Flashcards
(31 cards)
What does Martin mean when he says, “I’m not a spy. I’m a soldier.” and how does this link to Hall’s theory?
Martin is expressing moral conflict, resisting the espionage role forced on him. It reflects Hall’s Representation Theory as he is portrayed as a conflicted individual, not a typical heroic spy, offering a nuanced representation of Cold War identities.
What is the significance of Lenora saying, “You’re doing this for the future. For peace.” and which theory can this relate to?
Lenora uses ideological manipulation to justify espionage. This links to Barthes’ Mythologies, constructing a myth that spying serves noble purposes, masking the state’s true motives.
What does Tobias reveal when he says, “Annette wants a house. And a car. We’re in debt up to our eyeballs.” and how does it link to Baudrillard?
Tobias highlights the pressures of consumerism in the West, suggesting dissatisfaction and debt. This links to Baudrillard’s Postmodernism – the West is governed by simulacra and superficial desires, not reality.
How does Yvonne’s quote, “You could have stayed in the East. But you chose the West. Now you’re here. And here, you work.” challenge genre conventions?
Yvonne emphasizes the harsh realities of capitalist life. It subverts the glamorous Western lifestyle typical of Cold War thrillers, linking to Neale’s Genre Theory – challenging traditional genre tropes.
What does General Edel mean by, “We must be ready to strike at any moment. We can’t fall behind the Soviets.” and how does this reflect media theory?
It reflects Cold War paranoia and militaristic ideology. This supports Gerbner’s Cultivation Theory – media and political discourse cultivate a persistent fear of the enemy.
What is Martin expressing when he says, “Everything is new. I don’t even know how the phones work here.” and how does it relate to identity theory?
He shows cultural dislocation and alienation. This links to Gauntlett’s Identity Theory – Martin must reconstruct his identity in an unfamiliar environment, highlighting identity as fluid and constructed.
How does Lenora’s quote, “You’re doing this for your mother. For your country.” reflect ideological control?
She uses emotional manipulation to secure Martin’s compliance. It relates to Althusser’s Ideological State Apparatus – personal relationships are used to reinforce state ideology.
What’s the deeper meaning of Walter saying, “No one suspects a 24-year-old. That’s why you’re perfect.” and how does it relate to representation theory?
It shows how age and appearance can be weaponized. Though typically linked to gender, this reflects Van Zoonen’s Feminist Theory – appearances construct perceptions, here used to reinforce espionage strategies.
How does mise-en-scène contrast East and West Germany during the BBQ scene?
East Germany is shown with muted colours and traditional furnishings, symbolizing austerity. West Germany features vibrant colours, modern clothes, and a relaxed, affluent setting.
What does the diegetic music in the BBQ scenes signify?
Lively music in the East vs. subdued music in the West reflects contrasting social atmospheres—community vs. affluence.
How are East and West Germany represented?
East = tight-knit but limited society. West = wealthy, individualistic, and culturally open.
How does this scene engage audiences? (east vs west bbq scene)
It provides Cold War context and uses Martin’s discomfort to develop character and tension.
How is mise-en-scène used in the supermarket scene?
Bright lights, orderly shelves, and branded goods reflect capitalist abundance. Martin’s clothing becomes more Westernised.
What is the effect of “Sweet Dreams” playing in the background?
Sets the 1980s tone, emphasizes Martin’s disorientation and culture shock.
What does this scene say about East vs. West?
Highlights consumerism in the West versus scarcity in the East.
How are gender stereotypes presented here? (supermarket scene)
Tobias mentions Annette’s desire for material goods, implying traditional gender roles.
How does this scene engage the audience? (supermarket scene)
Through 1980s nostalgia and empathy for Martin’s alienation.
What editing techniques are used during the spy training?
Fast cuts, split screens, and rapid montage convey urgency and transformation.
How is cinematography used to reflect espionage themes?
Mirrors and glass emphasize surveillance and secrecy.
What is represented about espionage culture?
It’s rigorous, demanding, and psychologically intense.
How are gender roles reinforced in this scene? (training scene)
Focuses on traits like toughness and endurance – traditional masculinity.
How does the training montage appeal to audiences?
Uses intertextuality with spy/action genres and builds excitement through Martin’s evolution.
What cinematography builds suspense in this scene? (stealing plans)
Close-ups, high angles, and surveillance-style shots make the viewer feel like a voyeur.
How does sound contribute to tension?
Amplified breathing and ambient noise heighten danger and urgenc
