Squeezing the franchise too far?
Popular programmes and films can become ‘franchises’, that is, so recognisable that characters, titles, storylines and so on are trademarked and then licenced for use by others.
The TV crime drama CSI is one such media franchise. The board games could be taking things a bit far, though. Having said that, AQA could be planning a surprise for this summer’s exam…
How to Measure Success
Beyrl Vertue, one of the independent producers behind Sherlock, has criticised the British TV industry for being too focused on audience ratings. It raises an interesting question, relevant to all aspects of media and film: how should we measure success? How do you quantify appreciation? Artistic merit?
TV Crime Drama Websites
A web presence is obviously vital these days, and generally there’s the opportunity to watch clips if not full episodes. Have a look, especially if you’re preparing for the AQA TV crime drama exam.
CSI
Waking the Dead
Visit the Waking the Dead website.
The Bill
Visit the website for The Bill.
Sherlock
Visit the Sherlock website. This one has blogs and interactive quizzes.
Scott and Bailey
Visit the Scott and Bailey website.
Luther
Strong Female Characters
Maggie Brown argues in The Guardian that strong female characters have proved popular with audiences. She focuses partly on ITV’s Scott and Bailey. Those of you preparing for the AQA TV crime drama exam should keep this in mind.
TV Crime Drama Trailers
Here are some trailers for TV crime dramas. Some are for individual episodes and some for the entire season / series. Studying these is sueful for those of you preparing for the AQA TV crime drama exam.
Scott & Bailey
Luther
Sherlock
Ashes to Ashes
CSI
TV Crime Drama Title Sequences
Title sequences are always a treat, and this selection is no exception. If you’re preparing for the AQA TV crime drama exam, studying these to establish the conventions would be useful.
Life on Mars
Luther
Sherlock
Zen
Waking the Dead
Silent Witness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRUS9dSHLjQ
Miss Marple
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmQIxN3NA4U