I, Daniel Blake

 

1) What is independent cinema and how is it different to Hollywood blockbusters?

Independent cinema is made with small budgets and focuses on realistic stories and social issues.
Hollywood blockbusters have big budgets, famous actors, lots of special effects, and are made to make lots of money.

2) What is I, Daniel Blake about?

It is about a man struggling with the UK benefits system after having a heart attack, and how it affects his life.

3) Who directed I, Daniel Blake and why is this important?

It was directed by Ken Loach.
This is important because he is famous for making films about working-class people and real social issues.

4) How was I, Daniel Blake promoted? (3 methods)

• Film festivals (Cannes) – targeted critics and indie film fans

• Posters and trailers – targeted adults and socially aware audiences

• Interviews and press coverage – targeted people interested in politics and society

5) What unusual or creative marketing methods were used?

The film used realistic posters, strong political messages, and word of mouth from reviews and awards to get people talking.

6) What was the budget and box office?

• Budget: around £3–5 million

• Box office: around £15 million worldwide

7) What companies funded or produced the film?

• Sixteen Films

• BFI

• BBC Films

• Wild Bunch

8) Who is the UK film regulator and what was the age rating?

The regulator is the BBFC.
The age rating was 15.

9) What aspects contributed to the age rating?

• Strong language

• Distressing scenes

• Adult themes (poverty and hardship)

10) Was I, Daniel Blake a success? Compare it to Black Widow.

Yes, it was a success because it won major awards, made a profit, and had a strong social impact. Compared to Black Widow, which made far more money and focused on action and entertainment, I, Daniel Blake succeeded by raising awareness and starting conversations, not by box office numbers.