Quick questions on Hollywood 1930-1990: the comparative study - WJEC A-Level Film Studies

The classical film tends towards seamless continuity editing, clear cause-and-effect narrative, resolved endings, and a high-gloss aesthetic that keeps technique invisible. Genre (the Western, the musical, the melodrama) provided familiar frameworks, and the production code limited how sex, violence and morality could be shown. When you analyse the classical film, expect conventional, polished form and a controlled approach to its subject.

The New Hollywood film frequently breaks or bends classical norms: endings may be unresolved or downbeat, protagonists may be morally ambiguous, and style may draw attention to itself. This shift reflects a changed institutional context (director-led production replacing studio control) and a turbulent social and political climate. Analysing the New Hollywood film, look for where and why it departs from classical convention.

Spending most of the answer on one film loses comparative marks; give each roughly equal weight.

Noting that the films differ is not enough; explain the difference through the Classical-to-New Hollywood shift and context.

What periods do Classical Hollywood and New Hollywood cover in this study? [2 marks]

Name two ways a New Hollywood film often differs from a Classical Hollywood film. [3 marks]

Compare how the two Hollywood films you have studied use film form to create meaning. [20 marks]