Notes on "Bullet Boy"

• Directed by Saul Dibb, 2004.

Locations/settings: the film is set in London's outer part where the lower class lives. The flat creates a sense of being safe, almost like a haven, but it is very small, even claustrophobic and contrasting with the exterior. The scene of police breaking in and vandalising the flat takes away the safety.

Narrative structure: a spectatorship is created throughout the film, as the viewers are involved and witness everything through their own eyes. The events take place in few days time after Ricky comes out of the prison. Fast action.

Characterisation: the little boy, Curtis is a witnesser and the bullet boy. Ricky, his big brother, is an influencer. Mother is a strong female figure, making decisions, but her boyfriend is the saver or at least he tries to be one. Throughout the film, each of the characters is going through changes - at first, Ricky tries to escape his own life, but then gives up, Curtis, on the other hand, becomes more mature and grows up too quickly. His brother's actions make him realise what he wants to do with his own life. The male figures are depending on women. There are strong connections between the characters, for example, even though Ricky wants to leave, he decides to help Wisdom and gets in trouble himself.

Ideology: mostly back people are portrayed. White characters are complete opposites and almost authoritative figures. A strong belief in god is brought in by Mother's boyfriend. His mission is to introduce god to everyone. The preach scene is the first time when the Mother is seen in a religious place, showing her changes. The film tells about the lower class. Their lives are like never-ending circles from which nobody can escape.

Genre features: similar as "Sweet Sixteen" the film tells about the lower class. Both films portray young male characters trying to escape their lives. Mostly diegetic sounds can be heard to create a sense of realism. However, a sad piece of music is used to signify changes in the mood. Lots of contrasts can be seen, for example, when parallel action takes place - the dinner party hosted by Ricky's mother and the party at a night club. The film also links with "Sweet Sixteen" because it seems like male characters are the ones who tend to get in trouble. In both films, one of the character is in prison and a welcome-back party is hosted when they come out.