SuperHuman Media Studies A Level

How can hall’s theory be applied to superhuman

• Dominant reading: celebrates paralympians as strong, and inspirational

• Negotiated: viewers appreciate the message but feel it still places pressure on disabled people to be superhuman rather than just human

• Oppositional: Some may feel it reinforces the “inspirational”stereotype — turning disabled people’s lives into feel-good stories for non-disabled audiences

Post colonial theory used when

representation resists stereotypes and shows them as empowered, skilled, and central in national pride

Guantlett theory:

Media provides us with tools to shape our identity. Offers positive role models for people with disabilities and the wider public.

How does the ad challenge the male gaze theory

It focuses on performance, emotion, and inner strength — not appearance or sexualisation.

Blumler and Katz’s Uses and Gratifications Theory

Audiences aren’t passive — they actively choose media to satisfy certain needs or “gratifications.” In other words, we use media for a purpose.

Lighting in superhuman

Smoke, lowkey lighting and dramatic non diegetic music creates drama and excitement

Montage of audio

The montage of audio commentary adds tension and realism as though it is a real competition being judged.

Exaggerating sounds

Exhaggerating sounds and track in to close up make this seem like an important event with high pressure

Speak about use of silk bonnet

The use of the silk bonnet may help to engage black audiences who often aren’t shown natural black hairstyles being represented in the media

How may people with disabilities in the video encourage people

May help to engage audiences who deal with disabilities themselves

Low angle shots of Ellie simmonds

The low angle shots make her seem dominant and powerful. Also has jump cuts/montage at different races.

Shots of people training

Is cross cut with archive style footage of soldiers training helping them to compare the athletes to soldiers, fighters ect.

Shot reverse shot meaning

It’s between the cyclist and his daughter connotating how hard it is to try and juggle parenting with training