Social Realism vs Commercial British Films

Social Realism
Social Realist films are usually the ones that appeal to only really the British audience, because they contain 'gritty' themes and images that reflect what Britain is really like in particularly the working class culture, as opposed to focusing on a Utopian orderly middle-class Britain. An audience can therefore often relate to these types of films more, and the use of handheld cameras and improvisation makes these films more realistic. A teenager is usually the main character, with themes such as drugs, sex, money, and violence usually at the heart of the film, which is typically set in council-estates or 'rough' areas of Britain, to reflect these issues that we have in society today. Examples include 'Trainspotting', 'This is England' and 'Anuvahood'.

Commercial Films
These are British films that typically have bigger budgets that aim to do well globally, particularly in America, as well as Britain. These films typically focus on the middle to upper classes to portray a more Utopian side to Britain, and therefore for example use royalty or prime-ministers as characters, and use more positive themes such as love, family and careers. There is usually no working class shown, however if there is, they are usually shown as happy in their situation (e.g. Mary Poppins), to further add to the feeling of Utopia, even if this is untrue. Star Power is often used to sell these films also, where American audiences may be attracted to the famous actors used. Examples of commercial films include 'The King's Speech', 'Love Actually' and 'The Holiday'.

 

Why is it important for Britain to have Social Realism and Commercial Films?
Commercial films are especially important for Britain to bring in money and profit from America, and also to create a more immersive experience of escapism for a British audience if it is unlike their usual lives. However social realist films are equally important to a British audience so they have something to relate to, and can enjoy seeing what are true messages and values underlying our British culture.