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Harold Pinter's The Caretaker
Directed by Clive Donner
Approaches for using the film at AS/A2
by Anthony Gears
The following lesson plans support a study of Harold Pinter's The Caretaker for AS/A2 English, Drama and Theatre, Media or Film Studies students, using Clive Donner's 1963 film version available on VHS video or DVD from the bfi. The lessons can be adapted for use with GCSE classes.
The plans are grouped under five approaches to teaching. Each approach is best suited to work in one or more of the above subjects and I have ranked them accordingly. For instance a ranking of 'English/Drama/Film/Media' would indicate a focus on the English students, but with some value to Drama students etc. There is, however, enough material in each of the approaches to meet the needs of all these subject areas.
The plans are intended as a guide to ways in which the film version of the playcan be used to deepen and develop study of the play or of the theatre drama and film drama art forms. Further material on the film is available.
The lessons are designed as introductions to the play and film and, on the whole, do not require knowledge of either, beyond a basic introduction from the teacher. Ideally these lessons should be followed by a thorough study of the play and film.
There is some overlap between the lessons, but I have used the lessons with an A2 class, and found that the overlap provides useful review rather than repetition.
The script of the film, adapted by Pinter himself, is quite different to the stage play in places, and Pinter has adapted, cut and moved things around in fascinating ways. This provides useful learning for students on the differences between staging a play and making a film. However, I have suggested sections of text where the play and the film script are closely matched.
You will need:
- A copy of the film on DVD from the BFI Filmstore, or order over the phone on 0870 241 3764.
- A TV
- A DVD player
- Copies of the play (page references here are given for the Eyre Methuen edition).
In addition, it is useful to have a digital still or video camera, and a digital editing system.
Approach 1: The role of the director in the film of The Caretaker
(Subject ranking: Film/English/Media/Drama)
Approach 2: Comparing the role of the actor in film and in theatre and considering the characters created for The Caretaker
(Subject ranking: Drama/English/Film/Media)
Approach 3: The use of music and sound in the creation of meaning in film.
(Subject ranking: Film/English/Media/Drama)
Approach 4: Bringing the script to life
(Subject ranking: Drama/English/Film/Media)
Approach 5: Making sense of Aston's monologue
(Subject ranking: English/Drama/Media)
