cuffs question 1 and 2

 PREP Watch this extract of Cuffs on Clickview: chapter 5 

Answer the following 2 exam questions on your blog:

1 Analyse how camerawork is used in the extract to create meaning. Refer to at least two examples from the extract in your answer. (5 marks) 

2. Analyse how far the extract creates a humorous view of policing. In your answer you must:

• analyse aspects of the extract using examples to support your analysis

• make judgements and draw conclusions about how far these aspects create a humorous view of policing. (10 marks) 

Example of how to answer on camerawork:

•   sweeping aerial shot of Brighton pier connoting a glamorous seaside location

•   bird’s eye view of the small police car driving through

  the streets of Brighton on a call-out, carrying connotations such as danger, excitement, and urgency

•   the use of an over-the-shoulder shot of the beach sign, as we arrive at the sign at the same time as the police officer, connoting surprise and anticipation of what is to come

•   slow pan / track of the new recruit police officers as they are introduced to the audience connoting authority and power

•   high angle long shot of the beach scene showing the police officer outnumbered by the group of men on the stag do

•   any other relevant analysis 

1. Camera work is used in filming to put emphasis on certain scenes, and to show the audience what important events are taking place in a scene. An example of a camerawork technique used in the tv series 'cuffs' would be a reaction shot. This is demonstrated when jo is having an in-depth conversation with the father of the boy she is seeking information from. The father gives a description on why he does not believe he should help the police officer, explaining the abuse his loved ones have had to endure from past experiences with the police. We get a zoomed in reaction shot of Jo, appearing uncomfortable and looking away. There is also a sadness and understanding in her eyes telling the audience that she is in fact sorry and aware of these incidents. This reaction shot is extremely important because it tells us about Jo's character so we can understand her.

Another example would be an arc pan shot, which is used in the extract when Jake is trying to make an arrest. The woman who is he trying to arrest begins to strip off her clothes, in order to excuse Jake of trying to assault her. The camera sweeps all around her, performing an arc pan shot. This means we are able to see the other characters reaction to this, and also adds a bit of humour and urgency as the camera briskly circles around the mess of the situation.

2. This small extract creates a humorous view of policing to some extent. When Jake is attempting to make his first arrest, the atmosphere  could be considered as very funny and laughable as the appalled Jake watches the woman try take of her clothes to accuse him of such a lie. The audience will laugh at this scene because of how uncomfortable Jake appears to be, and may view the woman as every other crazed criminal in todays society, and will laugh at her stupid ways of trying to redeem herself. The urgency of the situation is ironic considering the not very urgent situation it is. The head police officer is yelling at Jake and treating in extremely professionally, while in actual fact its just two middle aged woman who have attempted to steal something with not much actual value.

However, some people may view this extract as sad, and a representation on issues in the world. The fact that the woman feels that she will get away with accusing Jake of rape, may upset some people, because they find it unfair that the woman would even think of accusing Jake of such a strong crime he never even thought of committing. It could also anger people due to the fact she tries to shove jakes hand down down her pants, which is extremely inappropriate and demonstrates how some people have no respect for police offers, and do not consider their feelings.

To conclude, this extract is intended on being humorous with an ironic element to it. However some people may look at it and see extreme issues that exist in real life in it rather than taking it as a joke. Therefore it is only humorous to some extent.