1. Conventions of a Gangster Film
There are 4 main types of gangster films that
go into sub-genres. These 4 are mob (classic
American), British gangster, film noir, and
finally detective/crime thriller.

2. Mob Gangster sub-genre
• These types of films are classic American films and involve a lot of characters in suits
and involves people on different levels of hierarchy. A typical film is set in 1920s and
involves a lot of shooting and people working their way up to be the top leader. The
genre also normally relates to the mafia and organized crime which was originally
situated in America. An example of a mob genre is Scarface (1983). On the next part,
there will be screen shots to the opening of Scarface and labels showing what has
influenced me.
White text to introduce the
setting of the scene and
give background of the time
the film is set in

3. Screenshots with Labels
Extreme establishing
shot showing the setting
Boat to show to of the film.
film could contain
shipping or
importing
• This film opening will effect me because it has influenced me to think about how I
will portray my characters and how the costumes will effect their persona. It has
also allowed me to think about the non diegetic sounds that I must think about
including within the opening. With this in mind, I do think the way this opening
has inspired me most is the way the environment is used to give an establishment
of the film which is what I need to think about when thinking about the location of
which my film is set.

4. Film Noir sub-genre
• This type of genre involves a more mystical and relaxed type of film. These types of films
mostly include a lot of women in smart dresses and also involves a lot of smoking and trying to
act cool. This genre is also a more old, traditional type of gangster film and were mainly made
in the 1940s to 1950s. Film noir of this era is associated with a low-key black-and-white visual
style. An example of a film noir genre is Strangers On A Train. This film was made in 1951 and
was made by Hitchcock who is a very famous director. This next part is some important screen
shots to the opening of the film.
Classic gangster smart
shoes to show a
sophisticated character
but not showing anymore
to keep the character
from showing his identity.
Car in the background
as a prop which
shows the character
is not poor.

5. Screenshots with Labels
Use of different
characters and
costumes to give
added setting.
Different
environment to
establish the film
and show the film
will be set in the
city
The opening to Strangers On A Train has effected me in the way of considering the
costumes I will want my characters to wear and also how to use the different shot
types such as a low angle close up as used in the screenshot above to hide the
identity of the character, as a result of this an idea would be to not show my
characters all at once and to slowly introduce my characters as the opening scene
continues. This scene has also influenced me to think about the types of props I
will use. The main prop used in this scene is a briefcase which resembles that
something is inside which attracts the audience and makes them curious. To
include props would be a good idea in my film to ensure the audience will want to
continue watching, therefore including a special prop would help this.

6. Detective / Crime Thriller sub-genre
• This genre of film is more likely to focus on the lives of criminals, films dealing with crime and
its detection are often based on plays rather than novels. This genre has been around since
the early 1900’s and producers are continuing to make these films. They are still going due to
the fact as technology evolves the films can get more complex and therefore captivating to
this audience. This next part will involve screenshots from the LA Confidential. This film was
made in 1997 however was set in the 1950’s which seems to be a popular setting as this is
the traditional gangster time period within history. This film was directed by Curtis Hanson.
During these opening
credits there is a voice over
of a man explaining why Los
Angeles is a lovely place to
live.

7. Screenshots with labels
This could indicate that she is a
princess according to Propp’s
theory.
The opening to LA Confidential has helped me to think about whether to include a voice
over as this narrative gives the certain perception of the setting or background
information that would be required for the audience to understand the film. The opening
scene has also influenced me to think about including a female actress and how to portray
her. For example I could portray her as a protagonist and maybe a potential girlfriend to
one of the male protagonist. On the other hand, I could think about presenting her in the
way of an antagonist and a bad, evil character who helps the lead male antagonist.

8. British sub-genre
• These types of films are created and film in Britain and involve a lot of characters that wear
quite poor or unattractive clothing and a like a jewellery like gold chains and watches. A
typical film is set in more modern times like the late 1900s up to now and usually involves a
lot of shooting and mainly these types of film evolve around money or drugs and sometimes
both. The genre also normally relates to the organized gangs and is normally surrounded by
gambling. This next part will involve screen shots from the film Lock, Stock and Two Smoking
Barrels. This film was made in 1998 and was set in round about the same time. And is very
popular with recent gangster films.
Action shot with the main
protagonist running from the
scene due to selling illegal
products

9. Screenshots with Labels
Slow motion action shot
showing potential
helper (sidekick).
Dark lighting
• This film opening has helped me to identify whether or not an action part may be suitable for
my opening. I think that this genre is also the most important genre to use as inspiration as
my opening scene is mostly based on British gangster. I think that I will not use an action film
as I do not have the facilities or the skill to capture a good action scene. Another feature that
this film has made me think about is to include a sidekick for the main protagonist or not. I
think it may be a good idea to include one as it will be a partnership like the two characters
from Pulp Fiction which was another hugely popular gangster film.