CUFFS, EXAM QUESTION 3

How far does the extract try to create a sense that it is portraying 'real life'?

• In your answer you should: analyse aspects of the extract giving detailed examples 
• judge how far these aspects create a sense of watching 'real life'

The use of natural realistic locations used in the extract from cuffs creates a sense of realism, for example the police officers at lunch in a Cafe example how they could be just like us (the audience) waiting casually on any day of the week. The PCSO's walking casually in a town centre also proves the police service to be a real life documentary instead of a police drama.

The use of camera angles also adds to the realism of the drama as a whole, with shot reverse shot being used connoting everyday conversation, which is evident in situations such as when the PCSO is being threatened by the thug with a crowbar, and when the police officers (like Jake, Lino, Donna and Ryan) are having their lunch in a Cafe and speaking about casual topics, like how their day has been, two complete opposite situations which are both made realistic. Other uses of angles, like hand held camera work can present (similarly like the natural locations) that the drama is infact a documentary, taking the audience to believe they are in the situation with the police officers involved with the chase. 

The use of casual generic conversation also creates a sense of naturalism. With scenes prior to the attack on the shop, like the PCSO's speaking casually while walking along a shopping centre, and the police officers sitting in the cafe before receiving a desperate phone call from PC Misha Baig. 
 

QUESTION 1, CUFFS

How is sound used to create meaning? Give at least two examples. (5marks)


The use  of diegetic noises for example whirring machinery in the beginning of the extract show the strength and brutality of the forklift being used to smash a window. The whirring noise creates an atmosphere suggesting it uses great force accelerating, with the screech of tires as it turns roughly round the corner. The diegetic noises create realism and enhance violence in the way of sound.

Ordinary diegetic conversation going on in the cafe, again presenting a calm and carefree atmosphere is suddenly broken when interrupted by a distressed police officer on the radio, which is an off scene sound, enhancing not only the urgency of the situation in town, but the desperation of the PCSO wanting and needing assistance . The police seem in a rush and are willing to go to duty as they push their chairs backwards creating a diegetic noise, and run into the cars, with heavy footsteps, proving them to wear heavy uniforms, but making no fuss.

When the officers get into their cars from the cafe, an upbeat non-diegetic sound track is added in which connotes a sense of urgency. The sound track creates tension and suspense for the watching, and may be getting excited for the hinted scenes of actions they are about to see.