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Representation, Trainspotting

Representation in Trainspotting

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All aspects of film form including narrative contribute to the representations of cultures and societies (gender, ethnicity, and age) including the ideological nature of those representations.

Performance

Can cover: age, ethnicity, facial expression of character and body language, costume.

Stereotypes = A stereotype is a fixed general image or set of characteristics that a lot of people believe represent a particular type of person or thing.

Countertype = An opposite type or a parallel or corresponding type.

An example of a countertype in film would be the character of Sarah Connor in the Terminator I and II. In the first film she is the typical stereotype of a clumsy American actress, however she has a drastic change in the second film where she becomes a typical action movie heroine sort of character.

Representation in Trainspotting

1. WHO IS DOING THE REPRESENTATION? (DIRECTOR’S VIEWPOINT)

Renton and his group of friends – By Danny Boyle.

2.WHO IS BEING REPRESENTED ? (Identify specific social groups)

They are being represented as a group of delinquent white Scottish men that are addicted to drugs- specifically heroin. Also: the lower class, parents, adults.

3.WHAT SOCIAL GROUPS ARE OMITTED FROM THE REPRESENTATIONS?

People of colour, the upper class and women.

4.WHAT MESSAGES ABOUT PARTICULAR SOCIAL GROUPS ARE BEING CONVEYED?

The message of how an addiction to drugs can ruin a persons life, and the power and influence of it. It’s a social commentary that shows the unglamorous part of drugs that is not often shown.

5.WHICH CHARACTERS OR SOCIAL GROUPS HAVE POWER WITHIN THE REPRESENTATIONS?

The characters that provide them with the drugs such as “Mother Superior” Swanney (Peter Mullan). Also the police force and Renton’s parents.

6.DO THE CHARACTERS ADHERE TO OR CHALLENGE STEREOTYPES?

I’d say that yes, Renton and his friends represent the typical stereotype of a drug addict very well and this is supported by the mise en scène, the setting, the costumes and the cinematography.

7.ARE THE CHARACTERS TYPICAL OF FILMS IN THAT GENRE?

The main genres of Trainspotting is crime/drama and to an extent the character subtype of a drug addict could be typical for it.

8.WHAT DO REPRESENTATIONS TELL AUDIENCES ABOUT SOCIETY AT THE TIME THE FILM WAS MADE AND/OR SET?

Representations such as gender, age and race can tell the audience a lot about the time was made/set because of the way they behave, the stereotypes they adhere to (like women being housewives in the 1900s) and the way others react to them. It helps make the film feel real when there is a specific date to its timeline. Certain representations, such as working class people vs higher class people can also tell a story about the society within a film and tell the audience how their world works.

^ In this image older people are being represented. More specifically, Renton’s parents. The audience watch as Renton is being almost infantilised as his parents tuck him into his own bed and take care of him. This presents them as responsible and neat, they are the target type of “adult” that Renton and his friends should aim to be instead of drug addicts. And for their outfits, they are dressed all smartly and clean amidst Renton’s dark and shabby room while he is dressed in clothes from the day before- this shows the stark difference between them and the lives they both live.

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Trainspotting

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Initial response: 6/10

This movie is raw and real showing the realistic effects of drug abuse with out glorifying it, that is why I believe it is good. However I found it difficult to stay focused as the plot line seemed a little weak, however I understand that its necessary for it to be like that for this movies subject. It shows getting clean from substance isn’t a straight road to recovery and becomes repetitive much like the movie.

Sound

During the beginning of the movie the main character Mark Renton runs along the streets of Scotland reciting the iconic “choose life” monologue accompanied with “lust for life” by Iggy Pop. The diegetic monologue is upbeat and positive, opposing the contents on the movie by this it adds more interest within the viewer.

Mise-en-scene

The use of the colouring in this film is unique and interesting, as this photo not only depicts lots of colours of all the apartment curtains, yet it still manages to be so glum and drained of life, almost allowing you to see the world the way mark does. The lighting in this is dull and lifeless incorporating more into the depressing vibe the movie gives off. The set on this movie depicts the reality of the working class in the 1980s.

Editing

The use of editing in this film is crucial to represent what Renton feels and sees when he is high. This creates a connection between the audience and Rendon by taking a look into his mind while he is in euphoria.

Cinematography

the use of cinematography in trainspotting is crucial within this movie to create affect for the audience. The use of this medium close up eye level shot allows the reader to see Renton and get a better grasp of his emotions.

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Trainspotting Macro Element

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SOUND-In the opening scene of Trainspotting director Danny Boyle decided to use the song “Lust For Life” by Iggy pop. This is a fast paced song that matches well with the characters running from the police in Edinburgh’s streets. The title “Lust For Life” coincides with Renton’s monologue about choosing a normal life over heroin.

Cinematography- In every scene we see Swanny, also known as Mother Superior there is a halo of red light around him (2:30) This red light is only present in the drug den. This red glow is representative of the life style that the men live while they are under the influence of their addiction. Red is a universal colour in trainspotting that represents sex, drugs, death and all other things that won’t help Renton “Choose life.

MISE-EN-SCENE- (34:27) The set design of the drug den also holds important representation. The drug den has overwhelming shades of brown and dark, dirty colours with used needles and burnt spoons, But. Scattered around the den are muted vibrant colours, on the walls and carpet. These subtle vibrant colours represent the euphoria that the characters go through when they inject heroin, but the darker browns and greys represent the decay and disease that their addiction creates.

EDITING- (1:20) In this scene we see a freeze frame of each important character. The effect of this editing style tells the audience that each person we see is important to the plot and will be reoccurring.

Representation, Uncategorised

Trainspotting Representation

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Young People-

They feel alienated from traditional paths like stable jobs, marriage, or consumerism, instead embracing a chaotic and self-destructive lifestyle as a form of resistance. Their drug use and disregard for authority reflect a broader rebellion against societal expectations and norms. Many of the young characters prioritise pleasure and instant gratification, which is often pursued through heroin, alcohol, and casual sex. he male characters frequently conform to toxic ideas of masculinity, such as suppressing emotions and engaging in risky behaviors.

Working Class-

The working class in Trainspotting is depicted as trapped in a cycle of poverty, addiction, and disillusionment, with little hope for change. While the film critiques their self-destructive behaviors, it also portrays them with empathy, highlighting the systemic failures and societal neglect that contribute to their struggles. This nuanced representation offers a commentary on the economic and social realities of the time, making the film both a character-driven story and a broader critique of class inequality.

Addicts-

Addicts in Trainspotting are depicted as deeply flawed yet human individuals, caught in a web of personal choices and systemic failings. The film presents addiction as a devastating and multifaceted issue, blending moments of dark humor, tragedy, and raw honesty to challenge stereotypes and provoke empathy.

Scottish People-

Scottish people in Trainspotting are depicted with honesty and complexity, balancing critiques of societal issues with an acknowledgment of cultural resilience and humor. The film offers a raw, unvarnished portrayal of life in Scotland, highlighting both the struggles and the spirit of its people.

Older people-

Older people in Trainspotting are depicted as symbols of traditional values, societal stagnation, and generational disconnect. While some are shown as caring and concerned, they are often powerless to address the systemic issues faced by the younger generation. Their portrayal underscores the broader societal critique at the heart of the film, examining how intergenerational dynamics contribute to the struggles of addiction, poverty, and hopelessness.

Men-

Men in Trainspotting are depicted as deeply flawed yet human, caught in a cycle of rebellion, addiction, and disillusionment. The film critiques toxic masculinity and societal expectations while exploring themes of vulnerability, friendship, and the struggle for identity. This nuanced portrayal highlights the complexities of masculinity and its role in shaping the characters’ lives.

Women-

Women in Trainspotting are largely represented as secondary characters who serve to reflect and influence the male protagonists. While some, like Diane, show agency and assertiveness, the film primarily explores the struggles and experiences of its male characters. The female characters often embody themes of vulnerability, objectification, and exploitation, with their roles largely shaped by the male narrative. This portrayal is a reflection of the film’s critique of societal norms, including gender dynamics, but it also highlights the limited space for women within the world of Trainspotting.

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Representation

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All aspects of film form including narrative contribute to the representations of cultures and societies (gender, ethnicity and age) including ideology nature of those representations.

An ideology is a set of beliefs.

Performance:

Age

Ethnicity

Costume

Facial Expression

Body Language

A stereotype is a fixed general image or set of characteristics that a lot of people believe represent a particular type of person or thing.

Countertype: The opposite to a stereotype. The ideas of breaking away from a stereotype. Like when we think of an American president we think of a white man. You could think of a black man instead. Think of a different angle.

A stereotype within Terminator 1 is how Sarah Connor is seen to be a waitress with no passion within her life. She is stereotyped as a weak character within the first movie.

In Terminator 2 Sarah Connor is a countertype to herself within Terminator 1 as she is depicted to be fully in control of herself and went from a waitress to be comfortable around guns. She is countertypeed to her original self.

Representation in Trainspotting

1.WHO IS DOING THE REPRESENTATION? The main Characters – Renton, Spud, Sick Boy, Tommy and Robert.

1.WHO IS BEING REPRESENTED ? The Scottish poor and minority who live within the worst parts of Scotland. Also people who are addicted to drugs and their life depends on the next hit.

2.WHAT SOCIAL GROUPS ARE OMITTED FROM THE REPRESENTATIONS? Low class people addicted to drugs and have no aspiration in life.

3.WHAT MESSAGES ABOUT PARTICULAR SOCIAL GROUPS ARE BEING CONVEYED? The message of the movie is almost an advert on why you should not do drugs and the consequences of these drugs.

4.WHICH CHARACTERS OR SOCIAL GROUPS HAVE POWER WITHIN THE REPRESENTATIONS? The “Mother Superio” who supplies the drugs has power because everyone on heroin comes to him.

Young People

In Trainspotting young people are presented as being trapped in a dull and hopeless society. Not once do you see a cheery young person. They are always depicted as trying to escape the area. Danny Boyle makes young people to be low as they are drinking, taking drugs and running from the law in this movie.

Older People

Older people are seen in the movie as either loving couples with out of control children or drug addicts who are seen to only be looking for trouble.

Addicts

The whole film is almost an advert on not to do drugs. It shows the most horrible scenes which are based on real events. The drugs dens are scummy and disgusting and the addicts are presented as not caring, only caring on the next hit of the drug.