What are the differences between mainstream and independent film?
In film there are mainstream and independent audiences for certain films, for example Marvel's Avengers is a mainstream film. This is because it was released around the world in countries such as UK, America, Canada etc. and it was produced with a hefty budget of 220 million USD. Mainstream films are mostly shown in all of the big named cinemas: Empire, Odeon, Vue etc.
Independent films are typically very low budget wise and are usually produced outside major film studios. Independent films are typically screened at select cinemas such as Arthouse style cinemas with smaller audiences.
The target audience for mainstream films are usually people in the age range of teenagers to 30 year olds, compared to independent films are more likely to attract audiences above 30 years old and college graduates.
For mainstream film reviews you will find them on the internet, national newspapers and national TV. To find independent film reviews you go to specialist websites such as UK film review, specialist magazines such as "Film Comment", "Cinema Scope" and "Another Gaze". In the film industry there are Baftas, The Oscars which are generally aimed at mainstream films. Whereas, Independent films get awards such as "Film Independent Spirit Awards" (FINDIE), "British Independent Film Awards" (BIFA).
The style of mainstream films is usually grand, using big sets and filmed in studios and at locations all over the world. Independent films are generally filmed in local places, and in fewer locations. They are also not as likely to have elaborate VFX. In, "Indie" films the cast is not s well known, whereas mainstream films are likely to use well known actors. Independent films are more true life, rather than the escapism style of mainstream films. Some independent films are more likely to deal with political and social issues, whereas mainstream films rarely focus on these aspects. Also, in Indie films they use more natural lighting and low budget mise en scene.
People will find out about mainstream films from TV advertising, advertising on public transport, websites, special promotions, newspaper adverts, billboards and trailers in cinemas. Independent films are morel likely to be discovered on websites, and word of mouth.
Mainstream films cover all genres of film, whereas Indie films are more likely to be drama, biopic, comedy and animation.
It appears the main differences between mainstream and Independent film are budget, cast and the overall style of the film.
The target audience for mainstream films are usually people in the age range of teenagers to 30 year olds, compared to independent films are more likely to attract audiences above 30 years old and college graduates.
For mainstream film reviews you will find them on the internet, national newspapers and national TV. To find independent film reviews you go to specialist websites such as UK film review, specialist magazines such as "Film Comment", "Cinema Scope" and "Another Gaze". In the film industry there are Baftas, The Oscars which are generally aimed at mainstream films. Whereas, Independent films get awards such as "Film Independent Spirit Awards" (FINDIE), "British Independent Film Awards" (BIFA).
The style of mainstream films is usually grand, using big sets and filmed in studios and at locations all over the world. Independent films are generally filmed in local places, and in fewer locations. They are also not as likely to have elaborate VFX. In, "Indie" films the cast is not s well known, whereas mainstream films are likely to use well known actors. Independent films are more true life, rather than the escapism style of mainstream films. Some independent films are more likely to deal with political and social issues, whereas mainstream films rarely focus on these aspects. Also, in Indie films they use more natural lighting and low budget mise en scene.
People will find out about mainstream films from TV advertising, advertising on public transport, websites, special promotions, newspaper adverts, billboards and trailers in cinemas. Independent films are morel likely to be discovered on websites, and word of mouth.
Mainstream films cover all genres of film, whereas Indie films are more likely to be drama, biopic, comedy and animation.
It appears the main differences between mainstream and Independent film are budget, cast and the overall style of the film.
A good attempt Ben although I think it could be more detailed. Have a look at the lesson notes and think about what you could add here
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