How to use these notes

Both these films are British, made by black British directors interested in exploring what being black and British meant in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Study of them in Film and Media Studies courses at A Level can support a range of specifications.

These notes have been written by film curator and critic, Joel Karamath. They suggest a number of ideas that you can think about when you watch and study the films. The questions are designed to help you think about the issues that the films deal with and that Joel raises in his notes.

Start by making notes on the questions in What is black film?, then read Joel's own thoughts on the question. You could also read and research the Development of black film in Britain and the Introduction to Pressure and Burning an Illusion, before going on to watch the films.

Joel explores some unusual themes and close study of some scenes from each film will enable you to think about the issues he raises. Some of the questions suggest particular scenes to watch.

Embedded in the text are a number of links that take you to screenonline and other sources of further information.

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