UK Film Council 'Film Theft in the UK' (2004)
This morning the UK Film council launched a 94-page report containing 30 measures they feel will help defeat the spread of unauthorised film copying in the UK.
Compiled by the Anti-Piracy Taskforce convened by the UK Film Council, it contains suggestions of short, medium and long-term actions aimed at the UK Government, the UK film industry and, what they call, “Government-backed and other film sector stakeholders”. Started in Summer 2003, it has taken nearly 18-months to complete.
The report is being forwarded to The Creative Industries Forum on Intellectual Property, which was launched by the UK Government in July this year. Headed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Department of Trade and Industry and Patent Office, the group contains Ministers from eight Government Departments including the Treasury and Home Office.
There is clearly a large problem with DVD’s being commercially copied and offered for sale in the UK
Here is a link to the UK Film Council's website and a Pdf document displaying their concerns over film theft;
This link is the a link to a version of the 2004 document and highlights all of the issues.
http://www.ukfilmcouncil.org.uk/media/pdf/j/4/Film_theft_in_the_UK.pdf
Essay Question on Technology
In recent years digital technology and technology on the whole has had an increasing affect on the film industry, studio, production and cinema consumption.
Digital Technology has lead to a decrease in consumption at the cinema from availability illegally, online streaming, pirate copies and public sharing. This will lead to a decrease in financial support for film production companies. Piracy is a very important issue for the film industry during current day.
Other factors within technology that affect the film industry include practical production issues, issues such as technically being able to film and producing the final product in a digital format. The production firms would therefore be able to release films almost instantly via the internet to other cinemas that incorporate the same digital projection technology which is compatible with the digital productions. Therefore this would result in a large decrease in piracy as there would no longer be any need for pirate copies, due to the production behind widely available in most digital cinemas across the globe. It is clear that one of the key reasons for consumers purchasing illegal copies is due to the unavailability of the film in their local cinema or country and therefore this new motion would help to counteract that issue.
As a result of the new, contemporary format of production, distribution costs would therefore be far cheaper as productions would be easier to transport by using digital technology as an alternative to producing physical copies on film reels which proves to be a very expensive process. This would therefore cut costs and maximize profits for the film industry and proves to be a process which should be considered by the production companies. Through incorporating this concept cinemas would not have to wait for long periods of time for physical film reels to return and be delivered from another cinema which may have been using them, often from the United States.
It is interesting to note that the issue of awaiting the return of film reels from a country abroad is often the reason why Britain has delayed premiers and releases for its films.
It could be argued that from filming the production in a digital format, it may therefore make it easier when transferring the format onto DVD during the process of producing and distributing DVDs and could perhaps result in speeding up the process. This will most likely waste less time at a later date when the production companies and distributers wish to release the film on DVD to the consumers. This may also result in wasting less money and resources which would be of benefit to the production companies as it would help to maximise their profits.
However there are various disadvantages to producing motion pictures using digital technology. It has been argued by the film industry professionals and critics that through filming via digital, the picture quality when delivered on screen does not compare with the quality from filming onto physical reels. Therefore it has been very difficult to progress the digital technology as many professionals dismiss it. It could also be considered that if production companies were to eventually distribute films using the digital technology, on a mass level, it may deter certain audiences who are passionate about motion pictures and have the knowledge and expertise to notice the slight difference in quality. This could result in a reduction in consumption; however, it may be that due to the very slight variation in quality, many will not notice the changes in quality during consumption.
Also, some producers and distributers may find it hard to distribute films in a digital technology to other cinemas as many cinemas do not incorporate the digital technology projectors required to display the films as they cost large sums of money to install, therefore most cinemas remain with the technology that they currently have. This is a barrier that producers will need to overcome in order to progress digital film distribution further.
Many production companies are unlikely to already have the digital equipment and technology required to produce films in a digital format, therefore this would mean that they would need to purchase and install a new range of equipment to be capable of producing motion pictures in this way. This could prove to be very expensive and would deter many producers.
On a whole, introducing and developing new technology can be very expensive and ineffective unless a majority of those in the industry are also willing to participate in revolutionising the way in which the industry operates.
It is likely that over time new technologies will develop and will begin to be incorporated within the industry.
In conclusion, I have highlighted a number of factors that contribute to the advantages and disadvantages of new technology and how it can affect production companies and distributers and also how it can develop the industry on a whole. Through the development of new technology it may result in increasing audience consumption, interest and awareness.
Digital Technology has lead to a decrease in consumption at the cinema from availability illegally, online streaming, pirate copies and public sharing. This will lead to a decrease in financial support for film production companies. Piracy is a very important issue for the film industry during current day.
Other factors within technology that affect the film industry include practical production issues, issues such as technically being able to film and producing the final product in a digital format. The production firms would therefore be able to release films almost instantly via the internet to other cinemas that incorporate the same digital projection technology which is compatible with the digital productions. Therefore this would result in a large decrease in piracy as there would no longer be any need for pirate copies, due to the production behind widely available in most digital cinemas across the globe. It is clear that one of the key reasons for consumers purchasing illegal copies is due to the unavailability of the film in their local cinema or country and therefore this new motion would help to counteract that issue.
As a result of the new, contemporary format of production, distribution costs would therefore be far cheaper as productions would be easier to transport by using digital technology as an alternative to producing physical copies on film reels which proves to be a very expensive process. This would therefore cut costs and maximize profits for the film industry and proves to be a process which should be considered by the production companies. Through incorporating this concept cinemas would not have to wait for long periods of time for physical film reels to return and be delivered from another cinema which may have been using them, often from the United States.
It is interesting to note that the issue of awaiting the return of film reels from a country abroad is often the reason why Britain has delayed premiers and releases for its films.
It could be argued that from filming the production in a digital format, it may therefore make it easier when transferring the format onto DVD during the process of producing and distributing DVDs and could perhaps result in speeding up the process. This will most likely waste less time at a later date when the production companies and distributers wish to release the film on DVD to the consumers. This may also result in wasting less money and resources which would be of benefit to the production companies as it would help to maximise their profits.
However there are various disadvantages to producing motion pictures using digital technology. It has been argued by the film industry professionals and critics that through filming via digital, the picture quality when delivered on screen does not compare with the quality from filming onto physical reels. Therefore it has been very difficult to progress the digital technology as many professionals dismiss it. It could also be considered that if production companies were to eventually distribute films using the digital technology, on a mass level, it may deter certain audiences who are passionate about motion pictures and have the knowledge and expertise to notice the slight difference in quality. This could result in a reduction in consumption; however, it may be that due to the very slight variation in quality, many will not notice the changes in quality during consumption.
Also, some producers and distributers may find it hard to distribute films in a digital technology to other cinemas as many cinemas do not incorporate the digital technology projectors required to display the films as they cost large sums of money to install, therefore most cinemas remain with the technology that they currently have. This is a barrier that producers will need to overcome in order to progress digital film distribution further.
Many production companies are unlikely to already have the digital equipment and technology required to produce films in a digital format, therefore this would mean that they would need to purchase and install a new range of equipment to be capable of producing motion pictures in this way. This could prove to be very expensive and would deter many producers.
On a whole, introducing and developing new technology can be very expensive and ineffective unless a majority of those in the industry are also willing to participate in revolutionising the way in which the industry operates.
It is likely that over time new technologies will develop and will begin to be incorporated within the industry.
In conclusion, I have highlighted a number of factors that contribute to the advantages and disadvantages of new technology and how it can affect production companies and distributers and also how it can develop the industry on a whole. Through the development of new technology it may result in increasing audience consumption, interest and awareness.
Research into 'Vertigo Films'.
Vertigo Films is a UK Media company founded in 2002 by producers Allan Niblo and James Richardson. They create and distribute commercially driven independent cinema.
Vertigo's first film was Nick Love's 'The Football Factory' which was the biggest selling independent UK DVD which sold 1.3 million copies to date.
Vertigo has used innovative new technology, attention to budget and great attention to its audience in order to produce and distribute thirty films to date with continued success.
Vertigo Films is a vertically integrated UK Development, Finance, production and Distribution media company.
Vertigo Films attempt to produce films that meet a certain genre and audience.
Vertigo Films was specifically set up with the purpose of making two low-budget, commercial British movies: The 'Football Factory' and 'It's All Gone Pete Tong'. The goal has now been achieved, but the company is already planning bigger and better things.
In addition to its production and distribution activity, Vertigo also owns 'The Post Republic' which is a successful contemporary, innovative, production company situated in Berlin and is a partner in Protagonist Pictures, the international sales company joint venture with Film Four and Ingenious.
Movie Poster
Movie Poster Annotated
Sherlock Holmes Website Review
- Within the synopsis of the production on the promotional website, it is interesting to note that the film makers have decided to use the words, ‘legendary’ and ‘new’ in a way that appears contrasting.
For example using the word legendary whilst referring to his intellect, this is a characteristic that is associated with Sherlock and one that has been established over a long period of time, therefore appearing legendary. However this is in contrast to the previously mentioned fighting skills which would appear to be a new and slightly more of a contemporary perception and representation of the Character Sherlock Holmes, one that has not been associated with his already well established character as therefore is not legendary. The word ‘legendary’ has also been used once more when referring to Sherlock Holmes and his detective skills. Once again this is another characteristic that has been associated with the character for many years. The word legendary is used to emphasise the concepts that are familiar to the audience and are remembered by most, therefore appearing legendary. The use of the word engages with the audience.
It is also interesting to highlight the use of the word ‘new’. From the synopsis it is clear that the word has been used to emphasise more contemporary elements that have been created for the production. For example, the ‘new nemesis’ demonstrates that this character as not been featured in previous books or productions and therefore contributes to the intrigue and interest of the audience. The creators use the word ‘new’ once again when referring back to the adversary, nemesis, Blackwood. It is therefore clear that the film producers are attempting to emphasise the concept of an important and new character. The word has also been used in the first introductory sentence, ‘In a dynamic new portrayal’ connoting that the film has been created in an innovative and unique approach to any films or books previously made. This sets the tone for the remainder of the synopsis.
- Another film character that has been portrayed with a slightly new representation could be the example of ‘Batman’ from the latest ‘Dark Knight’ motion picture. In this film, it is clear that the creators have attempted to establish a darker, more violent, rebellious figure than to that already established. This is perhaps the case in order for the film to appeal to a more mature audience.
- It is clear that the order in which the actor’s names have been mentioned have been constructed in this way due to their importance, fame and status within the film industry. The production company are more likely to place an actor’s name first if they have the most public interest about them, this will then draw the attention of the consumers. This also ties in with the concept that the actor’s names have been put in this order to demonstrate the degree of importance that they have within the narrative of the production.
- A synopsis would most likely appeal to the audience. The synopsis helps to outline the key details and selling points to the film. It also gives a brief outline of the narrative and describes what actors are featured in the production. You are likely to find a synopsis on most promotion websites and also in a voice over form on the movie trailer. Movie trailers act as visual synopsises and summarise the best features and USP of the motion picture to appeal to the audience. Film Critics would also read a synopsis to give them an understanding of the movie and to help them understand its narrative before viewing.
- Personally I don’t usually read a synopsis before I view a film. I usually consume a film at the cinema if I have heard positive comments from friends and from the general attitude towards the film that is perceived by the news and critics. I would say that most consumers do not usually research into the motion picture before they go to see it at the cinema. I would perhaps use a synopsis to help me decide whether I would see the film, because it could give me a good understanding of the genre and help me decide if the film would appeal to me. However, I do understand that film producers who write the synopsis, use emotive language to make the film appeal more interesting and attractive to the consumer. Therefore I understand that they would attempt to make the film appear much more exciting that it possibly is.
- I have heard the word ‘gallery’ from a number of various contexts. I understand that the word can be applied to mean an area from which an audience can spectate and also a room with many rooms that could display works of art. I also believe that the word is now used in contemporary language to describe a section of a website where photographs are displayed. This is the context in which the word would apply on the Sherlock Holmes promotional website.
- In this gallery on the promotional website, the photographs are of very high standard and extreme quality, almost with the effects of a finish movie production style that has been edited onto them. They are of better quality than those you would normally find in most online galleries. An interesting point to rise is that a large percentage of them are captured from the point of view that would be viewed behind the scenes. An example of this would include the photographs of the director, Guy Richie, and various other members of the cast and crew, such as camera men. This allows the consumer to imagine the hard work and time that it has taken to create the film; it also allows them to appreciate the production to a greater level. This concept may also make the audience feel part of the film by being allowed to gain extra, behind the scenes, knowledge about the film. The ‘behind the scenes’ photographs could also appeal to media students and those that have a general interest in the movie industry.
- There are a number of reasons why the creators have decided to distribute more than one poster for the film. Often they production company, or marketing department, would release a teaser poster which gives very little detail and information about the film, but begins the public awareness process. It also begins to create intrigue and the feeling of wanting to know more, which helps to manipulate the audience into viewing the film. The production company will then begin to create and distribute posters that reveal a release date and more information about the film, its narrative and characters. This develops the interest of the public. The producers will then, in most cases, release a final poster with a large amount of detail and information about the film, which by this time the audience mostly understand the complete synopsis of the film. They will often distribute character posters that are often used as advertising within the actual cinema. This is often captured at a long shot, to include the character’s whole body; this allows the audience to gather an impression of the mise-en-scene, clothing and personality of the character. It also allows us to understand in greater detail, which the key characters and actors of the narrative are.
- The ‘download’ section has been cleverly introduced to appeal to a particular audience. This section would attract most likely, young men or boys. The download would also appeal to those who are familiar with technology and therefore supports the argument for a younger target market. The downloadable material would probably appeal to consumers that may have a strong interest in the film or a particular character, such as fans. From applying this concept, it introduces and influences a different target audience and therefore increases the wide range of potential consumers.
I believe that the three various sections that I have analysed that are displayed on the website, the gallery, the download and synopsis would appeal to different audiences. As I have previously highlighted, the synopsis may appeal to professionals within the industry and an older consumer audience who have researched into the film to gather a greater understanding of the narrative and the creation of the film. However the gallery section would most likely appeal to those who are perhaps of a younger audience and enjoy a slightly interactive element, and perhaps those studying the film or media would be interested in the photographs. The media may also be interested as they could gain access to invaluable photographs.
In contrast, the downloads would more likely appeal to a younger age range, and most likely boys due to the genre and themes of the production. The downloads are appealing to the younger ages as they can interact with the games and photo graphs and develop a sense of enjoyment and interest for the film.
For example using the word legendary whilst referring to his intellect, this is a characteristic that is associated with Sherlock and one that has been established over a long period of time, therefore appearing legendary. However this is in contrast to the previously mentioned fighting skills which would appear to be a new and slightly more of a contemporary perception and representation of the Character Sherlock Holmes, one that has not been associated with his already well established character as therefore is not legendary. The word ‘legendary’ has also been used once more when referring to Sherlock Holmes and his detective skills. Once again this is another characteristic that has been associated with the character for many years. The word legendary is used to emphasise the concepts that are familiar to the audience and are remembered by most, therefore appearing legendary. The use of the word engages with the audience.
It is also interesting to highlight the use of the word ‘new’. From the synopsis it is clear that the word has been used to emphasise more contemporary elements that have been created for the production. For example, the ‘new nemesis’ demonstrates that this character as not been featured in previous books or productions and therefore contributes to the intrigue and interest of the audience. The creators use the word ‘new’ once again when referring back to the adversary, nemesis, Blackwood. It is therefore clear that the film producers are attempting to emphasise the concept of an important and new character. The word has also been used in the first introductory sentence, ‘In a dynamic new portrayal’ connoting that the film has been created in an innovative and unique approach to any films or books previously made. This sets the tone for the remainder of the synopsis.
- Another film character that has been portrayed with a slightly new representation could be the example of ‘Batman’ from the latest ‘Dark Knight’ motion picture. In this film, it is clear that the creators have attempted to establish a darker, more violent, rebellious figure than to that already established. This is perhaps the case in order for the film to appeal to a more mature audience.
- It is clear that the order in which the actor’s names have been mentioned have been constructed in this way due to their importance, fame and status within the film industry. The production company are more likely to place an actor’s name first if they have the most public interest about them, this will then draw the attention of the consumers. This also ties in with the concept that the actor’s names have been put in this order to demonstrate the degree of importance that they have within the narrative of the production.
- A synopsis would most likely appeal to the audience. The synopsis helps to outline the key details and selling points to the film. It also gives a brief outline of the narrative and describes what actors are featured in the production. You are likely to find a synopsis on most promotion websites and also in a voice over form on the movie trailer. Movie trailers act as visual synopsises and summarise the best features and USP of the motion picture to appeal to the audience. Film Critics would also read a synopsis to give them an understanding of the movie and to help them understand its narrative before viewing.
- Personally I don’t usually read a synopsis before I view a film. I usually consume a film at the cinema if I have heard positive comments from friends and from the general attitude towards the film that is perceived by the news and critics. I would say that most consumers do not usually research into the motion picture before they go to see it at the cinema. I would perhaps use a synopsis to help me decide whether I would see the film, because it could give me a good understanding of the genre and help me decide if the film would appeal to me. However, I do understand that film producers who write the synopsis, use emotive language to make the film appeal more interesting and attractive to the consumer. Therefore I understand that they would attempt to make the film appear much more exciting that it possibly is.
- I have heard the word ‘gallery’ from a number of various contexts. I understand that the word can be applied to mean an area from which an audience can spectate and also a room with many rooms that could display works of art. I also believe that the word is now used in contemporary language to describe a section of a website where photographs are displayed. This is the context in which the word would apply on the Sherlock Holmes promotional website.
- In this gallery on the promotional website, the photographs are of very high standard and extreme quality, almost with the effects of a finish movie production style that has been edited onto them. They are of better quality than those you would normally find in most online galleries. An interesting point to rise is that a large percentage of them are captured from the point of view that would be viewed behind the scenes. An example of this would include the photographs of the director, Guy Richie, and various other members of the cast and crew, such as camera men. This allows the consumer to imagine the hard work and time that it has taken to create the film; it also allows them to appreciate the production to a greater level. This concept may also make the audience feel part of the film by being allowed to gain extra, behind the scenes, knowledge about the film. The ‘behind the scenes’ photographs could also appeal to media students and those that have a general interest in the movie industry.
- There are a number of reasons why the creators have decided to distribute more than one poster for the film. Often they production company, or marketing department, would release a teaser poster which gives very little detail and information about the film, but begins the public awareness process. It also begins to create intrigue and the feeling of wanting to know more, which helps to manipulate the audience into viewing the film. The production company will then begin to create and distribute posters that reveal a release date and more information about the film, its narrative and characters. This develops the interest of the public. The producers will then, in most cases, release a final poster with a large amount of detail and information about the film, which by this time the audience mostly understand the complete synopsis of the film. They will often distribute character posters that are often used as advertising within the actual cinema. This is often captured at a long shot, to include the character’s whole body; this allows the audience to gather an impression of the mise-en-scene, clothing and personality of the character. It also allows us to understand in greater detail, which the key characters and actors of the narrative are.
- The ‘download’ section has been cleverly introduced to appeal to a particular audience. This section would attract most likely, young men or boys. The download would also appeal to those who are familiar with technology and therefore supports the argument for a younger target market. The downloadable material would probably appeal to consumers that may have a strong interest in the film or a particular character, such as fans. From applying this concept, it introduces and influences a different target audience and therefore increases the wide range of potential consumers.
I believe that the three various sections that I have analysed that are displayed on the website, the gallery, the download and synopsis would appeal to different audiences. As I have previously highlighted, the synopsis may appeal to professionals within the industry and an older consumer audience who have researched into the film to gather a greater understanding of the narrative and the creation of the film. However the gallery section would most likely appeal to those who are perhaps of a younger audience and enjoy a slightly interactive element, and perhaps those studying the film or media would be interested in the photographs. The media may also be interested as they could gain access to invaluable photographs.
In contrast, the downloads would more likely appeal to a younger age range, and most likely boys due to the genre and themes of the production. The downloads are appealing to the younger ages as they can interact with the games and photo graphs and develop a sense of enjoyment and interest for the film.
Sherlock Holmes Game Review
- The game has been specifically chosen to be operated on the social networking site, ‘Facebook’. There are a number of reasons why the producers may have tactically decided to operate the game via this site; a likely reason for this is that ‘Facebook’ attracts over 300 million active users on their site therefore allowing great potential for the game to appeal to a wide audience. Users of the site vary in age and taste, the site is therefore an ideal place to feature the game. The game would also act as advertising material for the film contributing to raising the general awareness, which may influence the users of the site to watch the film. From the amount of users that ‘Facebook’ has, it is a perfect place for the producers to advertise their media product.
Those who are likely to use a social networking site are most likely consumers who enjoy interactive media and consequently would enjoy playing the online game.
‘Facebook’ has also become the leading social networking site in recent years overtaking the previously popular, ‘Myspace’ and is well recognised within the media industry.
The concept of a social networking site is ideal for the genre and style of the game as a social networking site has the objective of building a sense of community or relationship with others and being able to share interests and activities. The game requires two friends to work together to solve mysteries, each friend playing either Sherlock or Holmes. From hosting the game on ‘Facebook’, there is a likelihood that many people are willing to play with a friend that they have on their ‘Facebook’ account. Also, there are likely to be many people that share the same interests as the network user, therefore it is likely those consumers who share a passion for the novel or film would play the game together. The game may help to create a bond between the two consumers by working together; this would help to convey the sense of relationship that Holmes and Sherlock shared in the film. The game allows the audience to experience and have an understanding of film and the genre that is represented with Sherlock.
- The overall graphics and game play that have been incorporated in the game have been chosen because they are continuous and follow the codes and conventions that are perceived with the film.
The game suits the style of the film, being able to solve mysteries in a two player mode, working together as a team, which is a theme that is conveyed throughout the Sherlock novels and film.
The style is used to help market the film and portray the style in which the producers have chosen to give the film. It demonstrates the new representation that the producers have decided to give Sherlock. Through playing the game, this would intrigue the consumers and absorb them into the atmosphere of the new Sherlock Holmes.
Those who are likely to use a social networking site are most likely consumers who enjoy interactive media and consequently would enjoy playing the online game.
‘Facebook’ has also become the leading social networking site in recent years overtaking the previously popular, ‘Myspace’ and is well recognised within the media industry.
The concept of a social networking site is ideal for the genre and style of the game as a social networking site has the objective of building a sense of community or relationship with others and being able to share interests and activities. The game requires two friends to work together to solve mysteries, each friend playing either Sherlock or Holmes. From hosting the game on ‘Facebook’, there is a likelihood that many people are willing to play with a friend that they have on their ‘Facebook’ account. Also, there are likely to be many people that share the same interests as the network user, therefore it is likely those consumers who share a passion for the novel or film would play the game together. The game may help to create a bond between the two consumers by working together; this would help to convey the sense of relationship that Holmes and Sherlock shared in the film. The game allows the audience to experience and have an understanding of film and the genre that is represented with Sherlock.
- The overall graphics and game play that have been incorporated in the game have been chosen because they are continuous and follow the codes and conventions that are perceived with the film.
The game suits the style of the film, being able to solve mysteries in a two player mode, working together as a team, which is a theme that is conveyed throughout the Sherlock novels and film.
The style is used to help market the film and portray the style in which the producers have chosen to give the film. It demonstrates the new representation that the producers have decided to give Sherlock. Through playing the game, this would intrigue the consumers and absorb them into the atmosphere of the new Sherlock Holmes.