Fallout Analysis

How is age being represented in the extract "Fallout"?

Discuss with reference to camera work, editing, mise-en-scene, and sound.

Aggressive, violent.

Smallest boy heavily interested in shoes.

Rude to opposite sex.

Victimise others for no obvious reason.

Arrogant.

Intimidating.

Trying to assert dominance.

Illiterate.

This image from the film clip shows a good example of how the young people in the film are portrayed as intimidating.

The victim has been surrounded by other young black males, all of whom are taller than him. Not only is the director indicating that the three boys are more physically powerful than their victim, but also the crowded camera-shot also emphasises the crowded atmosphere as the victim is circled.

The main antagonist purposefully invades the other boy's personal space, pushing his head whilst his friends stand by and watch, encouraging his violence, showing the theme of peer-pressure. Furthermore, the camera is angled below the boy in red, making him seem to possess greater physical presence and power.

The presentation of the antagonistic group of boys contrasts heavily with the presentation of the protagonist earlier in the scene. He has been shown to be a high academic achiever, who appears to conform to normal social behaviour. When juxtaposed with the others, it makes them seem much more anti-social and aggressive. The director has purposefully shown the audience the protagonist before the antagonists to show the heavy contrast between the two, emphasising their differences.

The director has chosen to dress the tallest actor in red, suggesting aggression, power, and danger. Snarling, he appears angry and aggressive. He also fills most of the screen, suggesting dominance as he stands over the other boy. The protagonist is positioned in the centre of the shot, presenting him as the main focus of the scene.

In the background, the boy on the left appears to be looking the victim up and down, as if summing up how much of a threat he is. This suggests that the characters are weary about the violence that is about to ensue. Surrounding him, they appear to be trapping him and preventing his escape. This also suggests that the boy in red has an audience around him to satisfy.

The camera is at a medium-close shot, enabling the audience to see character positioning as well as body language and facial expressions in detail. The clip has been designed and edited in order to portray the younger generation of today as rude and abrasive, willing to resort to violence and threats over trivial matters.