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| Queen Elizabeth from 'The Crown' |
Queen Elizabeth dominates the centre third of the image, instantly asserting her authority and signifying to the audience that she is an important character. Additionally, she stands directly in-front of everybody else in the shot to suggest that she is the most powerful character. This strong, powerful female lead is both shocking and intriguing to the audience, as women in the 1950's were typically presented as passive and weak. However in this still, the Queen is purposefully standing in the foreground to connote that she has the most authority. This is refreshing for the modern day audience as the show is not conforming to old stereotypes and presenting women in a positive light. The way the light falls directly onto the Queen, leaving the other characters submerged in darkness, further connotes her superiority as she demands the audiences attention.
Contrary to this point, the Queen also conforms to certain negative stereotypes as she is wearing an extravagant silk and fur outfit, with her hair neatly pinned back and lots of make-up on. This could be suggesting that women are very materialistic and self-obsessed. However, the directors may have purposefully made this decision to conform to the conventions of costume drama. This makes the show more realistic so that it is easier for the audience to believe and relate to.
Contrary to this point, the Queen also conforms to certain negative stereotypes as she is wearing an extravagant silk and fur outfit, with her hair neatly pinned back and lots of make-up on. This could be suggesting that women are very materialistic and self-obsessed. However, the directors may have purposefully made this decision to conform to the conventions of costume drama. This makes the show more realistic so that it is easier for the audience to believe and relate to.
This is a very good first analysis, showing very good understanding of genre and denotation/connotation. You have included a wide range of relevant examples supporting your analysis with good technical detail. Well done. EBI: I think that you are right to be cautious about the negative representation of the young Queen. You could have added something about how the still seems to signify the glamour of the lifestyle and presents quite a carefree young woman caught before the serious duties of her role started to dominate.
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