Didn't You Used to Be Somebody?

Date
2019
Authors
Kohler, Adrienne
Supervisor
Marbrook, Jim
Item type
Exegesis
Degree name
Master of Communication Studies
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Auckland University of Technology
Abstract

The screenplay, working title Didn’t You Used To Be Somebody?, is a creative exploration of sexism and ageism within the mainstream entertainment industry, and how this affects the perception of older women (defined as 35 years and older) in wider society.

I developed the screenplay using a creative practice methodology that included dramaturgical analysis, traditional research into theories of feminism, and social construction theory. I also studied conventional screenwriting techniques such as the three-act structure, dramatic beats and character arcs.

In this way, a screenplay was produced to offer a counter-story to the prevailing characterisation of ageing women in mainstream cinema. I also used a dramaturgical approach to trace and understand how cultural influences produced and continue to propagate these characterisations and how this influenced my creative process.

Description
Keywords
Screenplay , Agesim , Women , Hollywood
Source
DOI
Publisher's version
Rights statement
Collections