TV: Deutschland '83 Case Study
Read the following reviews and features on Deutschland 83:
The Guardian - Your next box set: Deutschland 83
Daily Telegraph review
The Guardian - Deutschland 83 Pity the Germans don't like it
1) What positive aspects of Deutschland 83 are highlighted in the reviews?
3) Why did the Telegraph suggest that Deutschland 83 did the 'period' aspect of 'period drama' so well?
This was due to the culture references which helped set the scene for the audience as well a provide a nostalgia factor, which we have dicovered in the past that the majority of people will gravitate towards, despite leaving out the bad parts of that era.
4) Find three 'below the line' comments from either of the Guardian articles. What did the audience think of Deutschland 83? Do you agree with the comments?
"It was watchable and different but full of holes and implausibilities."- This is understandable as some of the series does seem to be slightly unrealsitic in some aspect.
"Hold your cynicism and suspend your disbelief (he really is the world's worst spy) and this is a thoroughly enjoyable series. Great title sequence and loved the soundtrack too"- I agree with the idea that of the soundtrack as I believe that it really captures the 80s with the music choices.
"Totally agree - the way the agent is infiltrated into the West German general's office is totally implausible."- This comment links back to the idea of there being multiple implausabilitie and imposible things, e.g. would there really only be a key lock for the generals office? That seems slightly unreasonable
Interviews and behind-the-scenes video features
1) What does Jonas Nay say about growing up in a united Germany? Jona Nay stated that he hd learned about the econd World War more than the cold war, during school and he says that it is his history, but the experiences of his familly and past generation.
2) The Channel 4 News interview is conducted in German with English subtitles. How does this reflect Channel 4's remit as a public service broadcaster and their target audience? (Clue: revise your work on Channel 4 and Public Service Broadcasting here!)
3) Interviewer Matt Frei asks about the current political situation in Germany. Why might this interest the Channel 4 News audience?
This is because Channel 4's audience is intereted in international politics as it provides different insights to common political issues.
Behind the scenes clips
The All4 website has a range of clips from behind the scenes of Deutschland 83. Watch the following:
Making Of: Why Should You Watch Deutschland 83
Watch this short promotional clip for Deutschland 83.
1) Why should audiences watch Deutschland 83 - what does the clip offer viewers?
2) Why is history an important aspect of the appeal of the show?
3) What technical aspects are highlighted in the video?
The pace of the how, the cinematography, the production design and costume design.
Making Of: Set Design
Watch this interview with Production designer Lars Lange.
1) Why were the set design, costume and props so important for Deutschland 83?
2) How historically accurate was the setting, costume and props?
To an extent the props and uch were historically accurate due to the fact that they designers didn't have much to go off, in terms of the really classified stuff, and they had to carry out extensive research with guesses on what things would look like, e.g. the West and Eastern bunkers.
3) Why were the props, costumes and music such a key audience pleasure for Deutschland 83?
Textual analysis: trailer
1) The opening of the trailer uses sound and editing to draw the audience in. Explain why this is effective.
The use of sound effects here really crates tension, which is good as it throws the audience into the deep end with what is going on.
2) What audience pleasures are suggested by the trailer? Think about Uses & Gratifications theory (Blumler and Katz).
The use of upbeat music helps to bring back this reocurrung idea of nostalgia, which allows the audience to instantly make that connection with the trailer, which may cause them to watch the show for diversion reasons. Furthermore, the use of romance sequences throughout the trailer helps to try and build that connection with the audience and Martin in the trailer, giving the effect that we actually know him, causing the audience to watch for the reason of personal relationships, another use&gratification stated in this theory.
3) How does the trailer use action and enigma codes (Barthes) to encourage the audience to watch the show?
Straight away we notice the enigma code: "Why Martin is running," a motif that is referenced multiple times throughout the trailer which could link to an overall message about the cold war or even to something about Martin as a person. An action code we notice throughout the trailer is the constant conflict, which further could link to the conflict and action in the cold war, which was constant throughout this period of time, yet seems nonchalant in this trailer.
4) Pick three shots/scenes from the trailer that capture the spy thriller sub-genre. Why might this appeal to an audience? Try and apply Neale's genre theory 'repetition and difference' (the original notes on genre theory are here).
1)The first shot I thought really reinforced the spy genre was the one which had Martin as a soldier, looking slightly scruffy, and him in the west in the new clothes. This really reinforces the spy genre in my opinion due to the fact that it displays him in a new setting, being the western side of germany, displaying how being a spy means that you will have to adapt to your new conditions etc.
2)Another clip which i think is reminiscent of the spy genre is the brief clip of Martin picking the lock, to try and gain access to the unknown, wether thats about himself as a person or information relevant to his mission.
3)Another set of shots I think really capture the spy/thriller genre are when he is running as they all paint the enigma code what is he running from as that seems to be a motif throughout the show as well as the trailer, causing the audience to question why he is doing so and why it is constantly referred to.
5) Pick three examples of mise-en-scene from the trailer that capture the 1983 setting the confirm the sub-genre of period drama. Why might this appeal to an audience?
Costume: I feel like the costumes captured in this show really represent the 80s as well as possible patriotism within germany as there are scenes where he is wearing Puma, a german brand, and Adidas shoes, another german company. Whilst being historical, it manages to remain contemporary by using these popular sportswear brands to style youthful characters.
Props: This use of the older technology throughout the trailer really helps set the scene and perhaps even remind the audience of the technology that they used back in their times. I commend this use props due to the fact that not only does it set the scene, but it gives the characters new obstacles to deal with and for him to learn to use, which can further build the relationship between him and the audience
Actors: The use of different actors to portray the different characters in this show helps portray the different types of characters in this era, the cold auntie to Martin, who despite not wanting to admit it, does display unconditional love, by volunteering Martin to the spy initiative in order to get a chance at saving her sister by getting her on the list for a kidney transplant.
6) The trailer uses the song 'Two Tribes' by Frankie Goes To Hollywood. Why did the producers select this soundtrack for the trailer?
This may have been used to create pace in the trailer as this trailer is trying to displat the pace at which Martin needs to work at in order to make sure that his mission overall is completed, in order for him to return to his home with his family and girlfriend, more importantly, for him to save Germany overall.
7) The only words heard in the trailer are in English. Why do you think the UK trailer avoided subtitles or German dialogue?
This may have been to give the trailer and tv show more appeal as it seems as if non-enlish language tv shows are less popular in the UK as less people like to read subtitles and would rather fully focus on the TV show.
Production and industry context
Deutschland 83 was produced by German production company UFA Fiction and distributed internationally by FremantleMedia International. It was broadcast on RTL (Germany), SundanceTV (US) and Channel 4 (UK) as well as many other broadcasters around teh world.
1) Read this Freemantle Media press release on the worldwide success of Deutschland 83. How is the drama described by the distributor? Why was it considered such an international success?
Deutschland 83 is a suspenseful coming-of-age story set against the real culture wars and political events of Germany in the 1980s.
2) Read this Freemantle Media press release on Deutschland 83 becoming Channel 4's highest rated foreign drama. What was the consolidated viewing figure for Episode 1 of Deutschland 83? What praise for Deutschland 83 is included in the press release?
Episode 1 of Deutschland '83 so far has accumilated 2.5 million views, making it one of the highest rated foreign language dramas in UK history.
Praise for Deutschland '83 includes:
3) How does the press release promote the Channel 4 'Walter Presents' collection of international TV drama?
Walter Presents are going to offer over 600 hours of drama that can be downloaded as well since Deutschland 83 forms Walter Presents new on demand service.
2) What audience are Channel 4 trying to appeal to with the 'Walter Presents' series?
Channel 4 is trying to appeal to the diverse audience who is very open minded and young, allowing them to understand the complex story lines of the multi strand narrative dramas, as well as be able to keep up with the reading of subtitles and watching what is happening on screen.3) How does the 'Walter Presents' series reflect the changing nature of television in the digital age?
1) Read the programme information from the press pack. How does the programme information seek to interest a reader from the first paragraph?
The first paragraph creates tension and introduces the audience to the character as well as setting that Martin is in during these series of events.
2) What does the programme information suggest the main strengths of the programme are?
The suggested strengths are that this tv show is gripping, fast paced and stylish, in all respects
3) Read the press pack interview with writer Anna Winger. How did she use the historical context and real-life events to create a successful drama?
Winger used the idea of everybody being uncertain about their lives and future as any political move could determine the next world war or even nuculear arms race. Using this idea, Winger tried to create this sense of impending doom throughout the series. Furthermore, her husband was a soldier in the west German military service, and would occasionally be greeted on a first name basis. He knew that there was a mole in his base, who was leaking information. This gave inspiration for the character of Martin supposedly.
4) Anna Winger discusses the use of music. Why might the soundtrack attract an audience?
3) How does the American branding use font, colour and graphics to appeal to an audience?
The use of an oldern looking font makes it stand out to the viewer when looking at it, instantly drawing attention to it, but the tagline text is slightly harder to read as it slightly blends in with the dull colours, almost like how Martin is trying to blend in to go undercover.
The Guardian - Your next box set: Deutschland 83
Daily Telegraph review
The Guardian - Deutschland 83 Pity the Germans don't like it
1) What positive aspects of Deutschland 83 are highlighted in the reviews?
- The use of pop culture references with historical references
- Good acting from the lead actor "Jonas Nay"
- The first episode created a lot of tension
- The subtle references to different vocabulary and mannerisms
- Some of the seires has been seen as underwhelming.
- It makes use of stereotypes- giving the impression of it all being too simple.
3) Why did the Telegraph suggest that Deutschland 83 did the 'period' aspect of 'period drama' so well?
This was due to the culture references which helped set the scene for the audience as well a provide a nostalgia factor, which we have dicovered in the past that the majority of people will gravitate towards, despite leaving out the bad parts of that era.
4) Find three 'below the line' comments from either of the Guardian articles. What did the audience think of Deutschland 83? Do you agree with the comments?
"It was watchable and different but full of holes and implausibilities."- This is understandable as some of the series does seem to be slightly unrealsitic in some aspect.
"Hold your cynicism and suspend your disbelief (he really is the world's worst spy) and this is a thoroughly enjoyable series. Great title sequence and loved the soundtrack too"- I agree with the idea that of the soundtrack as I believe that it really captures the 80s with the music choices.
"Totally agree - the way the agent is infiltrated into the West German general's office is totally implausible."- This comment links back to the idea of there being multiple implausabilitie and imposible things, e.g. would there really only be a key lock for the generals office? That seems slightly unreasonable
Interviews and behind-the-scenes video features
1) What does Jonas Nay say about growing up in a united Germany? Jona Nay stated that he hd learned about the econd World War more than the cold war, during school and he says that it is his history, but the experiences of his familly and past generation.
2) The Channel 4 News interview is conducted in German with English subtitles. How does this reflect Channel 4's remit as a public service broadcaster and their target audience? (Clue: revise your work on Channel 4 and Public Service Broadcasting here!)
3) Interviewer Matt Frei asks about the current political situation in Germany. Why might this interest the Channel 4 News audience?
This is because Channel 4's audience is intereted in international politics as it provides different insights to common political issues.
Behind the scenes clips
The All4 website has a range of clips from behind the scenes of Deutschland 83. Watch the following:
Making Of: Why Should You Watch Deutschland 83
Watch this short promotional clip for Deutschland 83.
1) Why should audiences watch Deutschland 83 - what does the clip offer viewers?
This clip offers viewers a one to one chat with multiple member of the cast and crew who worked on Deutschland ’83, providing them with reason as to why they should give the how a watch.
2) Why is history an important aspect of the appeal of the show?
History is an important appeal of the how due to the fact that it is set during the cold war, meaning that there is tension almost all of the time, the same way that there was tension between the west and east Germany, as well as America and Russia.
3) What technical aspects are highlighted in the video?
The pace of the how, the cinematography, the production design and costume design.
Making Of: Set Design
Watch this interview with Production designer Lars Lange.
1) Why were the set design, costume and props so important for Deutschland 83?
The set design had to look realistic, which I Important factor, due to the fact that this TV show I set during such an iconic and historic era, meaning that it must look accurate in order to recreate that same atmosphere and feel of the 80s as well as create the right setting.
2) How historically accurate was the setting, costume and props?
To an extent the props and uch were historically accurate due to the fact that they designers didn't have much to go off, in terms of the really classified stuff, and they had to carry out extensive research with guesses on what things would look like, e.g. the West and Eastern bunkers.
3) Why were the props, costumes and music such a key audience pleasure for Deutschland 83?
This is because they brought light to what was quite dark period in history, not knowing if you were about to be nuked it obviously quite scary and the use of pop culture references does bring a lighter more upbeat take on this.
1) The opening of the trailer uses sound and editing to draw the audience in. Explain why this is effective.
The use of sound effects here really crates tension, which is good as it throws the audience into the deep end with what is going on.
2) What audience pleasures are suggested by the trailer? Think about Uses & Gratifications theory (Blumler and Katz).
The use of upbeat music helps to bring back this reocurrung idea of nostalgia, which allows the audience to instantly make that connection with the trailer, which may cause them to watch the show for diversion reasons. Furthermore, the use of romance sequences throughout the trailer helps to try and build that connection with the audience and Martin in the trailer, giving the effect that we actually know him, causing the audience to watch for the reason of personal relationships, another use&gratification stated in this theory.
3) How does the trailer use action and enigma codes (Barthes) to encourage the audience to watch the show?
Straight away we notice the enigma code: "Why Martin is running," a motif that is referenced multiple times throughout the trailer which could link to an overall message about the cold war or even to something about Martin as a person. An action code we notice throughout the trailer is the constant conflict, which further could link to the conflict and action in the cold war, which was constant throughout this period of time, yet seems nonchalant in this trailer.
4) Pick three shots/scenes from the trailer that capture the spy thriller sub-genre. Why might this appeal to an audience? Try and apply Neale's genre theory 'repetition and difference' (the original notes on genre theory are here).
1)The first shot I thought really reinforced the spy genre was the one which had Martin as a soldier, looking slightly scruffy, and him in the west in the new clothes. This really reinforces the spy genre in my opinion due to the fact that it displays him in a new setting, being the western side of germany, displaying how being a spy means that you will have to adapt to your new conditions etc.
2)Another clip which i think is reminiscent of the spy genre is the brief clip of Martin picking the lock, to try and gain access to the unknown, wether thats about himself as a person or information relevant to his mission.
3)Another set of shots I think really capture the spy/thriller genre are when he is running as they all paint the enigma code what is he running from as that seems to be a motif throughout the show as well as the trailer, causing the audience to question why he is doing so and why it is constantly referred to.
5) Pick three examples of mise-en-scene from the trailer that capture the 1983 setting the confirm the sub-genre of period drama. Why might this appeal to an audience?
Costume: I feel like the costumes captured in this show really represent the 80s as well as possible patriotism within germany as there are scenes where he is wearing Puma, a german brand, and Adidas shoes, another german company. Whilst being historical, it manages to remain contemporary by using these popular sportswear brands to style youthful characters.
Props: This use of the older technology throughout the trailer really helps set the scene and perhaps even remind the audience of the technology that they used back in their times. I commend this use props due to the fact that not only does it set the scene, but it gives the characters new obstacles to deal with and for him to learn to use, which can further build the relationship between him and the audience
Actors: The use of different actors to portray the different characters in this show helps portray the different types of characters in this era, the cold auntie to Martin, who despite not wanting to admit it, does display unconditional love, by volunteering Martin to the spy initiative in order to get a chance at saving her sister by getting her on the list for a kidney transplant.
6) The trailer uses the song 'Two Tribes' by Frankie Goes To Hollywood. Why did the producers select this soundtrack for the trailer?
This may have been used to create pace in the trailer as this trailer is trying to displat the pace at which Martin needs to work at in order to make sure that his mission overall is completed, in order for him to return to his home with his family and girlfriend, more importantly, for him to save Germany overall.
7) The only words heard in the trailer are in English. Why do you think the UK trailer avoided subtitles or German dialogue?
This may have been to give the trailer and tv show more appeal as it seems as if non-enlish language tv shows are less popular in the UK as less people like to read subtitles and would rather fully focus on the TV show.
Production and industry context
Deutschland 83 was produced by German production company UFA Fiction and distributed internationally by FremantleMedia International. It was broadcast on RTL (Germany), SundanceTV (US) and Channel 4 (UK) as well as many other broadcasters around teh world.
1) Read this Freemantle Media press release on the worldwide success of Deutschland 83. How is the drama described by the distributor? Why was it considered such an international success?
Deutschland 83 is a suspenseful coming-of-age story set against the real culture wars and political events of Germany in the 1980s.
2) Read this Freemantle Media press release on Deutschland 83 becoming Channel 4's highest rated foreign drama. What was the consolidated viewing figure for Episode 1 of Deutschland 83? What praise for Deutschland 83 is included in the press release?
Episode 1 of Deutschland '83 so far has accumilated 2.5 million views, making it one of the highest rated foreign language dramas in UK history.
Praise for Deutschland '83 includes:
- “It’s only January but let’s call it already: coolest show of the year.”- Grazia
- “This is the next subtitled sensation……..unmissable TV.”- TV Times
- “This pacy saga could be your new subtitled obsession.”- The Guardian
- “A stylish curtain-raiser for Walter Presents.”- The Times
- “Great fun, and powered by an irresistible 1983 vintage soundtrack.”- The Daily Telegraph
- “Evocative and gripping.”- The Daily Mail
3) How does the press release promote the Channel 4 'Walter Presents' collection of international TV drama?
Walter Presents are going to offer over 600 hours of drama that can be downloaded as well since Deutschland 83 forms Walter Presents new on demand service.
Walter Presents
Watch this Channel 4 trailer for their Walter Presents international drama.
1) How does Channel 4 introduce 'Walter'?
Channel 4 introduces Walter as a person, rather than a service, who will provide you with all of the best tv dramas from across the world, making your viewing experience more diverse.
Watch this Channel 4 trailer for their Walter Presents international drama.
1) How does Channel 4 introduce 'Walter'?
Channel 4 introduces Walter as a person, rather than a service, who will provide you with all of the best tv dramas from across the world, making your viewing experience more diverse.
2) What audience are Channel 4 trying to appeal to with the 'Walter Presents' series?
Channel 4 is trying to appeal to the diverse audience who is very open minded and young, allowing them to understand the complex story lines of the multi strand narrative dramas, as well as be able to keep up with the reading of subtitles and watching what is happening on screen.3) How does the 'Walter Presents' series reflect the changing nature of television in the digital age?
Walter presents reflects the changing nature of television as it allows you to watch box sets for free without the need of a television, as it is all on demand, ready to be streamed, unlike actual tv which is broadcasted across channels.
Marketing and promotion
Look at the online Channel 4 press pack for Deutschland 83.
Look at the online Channel 4 press pack for Deutschland 83.
1) Read the programme information from the press pack. How does the programme information seek to interest a reader from the first paragraph?
The first paragraph creates tension and introduces the audience to the character as well as setting that Martin is in during these series of events.
2) What does the programme information suggest the main strengths of the programme are?
The suggested strengths are that this tv show is gripping, fast paced and stylish, in all respects
3) Read the press pack interview with writer Anna Winger. How did she use the historical context and real-life events to create a successful drama?
Winger used the idea of everybody being uncertain about their lives and future as any political move could determine the next world war or even nuculear arms race. Using this idea, Winger tried to create this sense of impending doom throughout the series. Furthermore, her husband was a soldier in the west German military service, and would occasionally be greeted on a first name basis. He knew that there was a mole in his base, who was leaking information. This gave inspiration for the character of Martin supposedly.
4) Anna Winger discusses the use of music. Why might the soundtrack attract an audience?
The use of music and pop culture from the 1980s really gives it an old school appeal as it is music which the older audiences will know and like more because they had heard it when they were younger.
International marketing
Look at these two different marketing campaigns - the UK DVD release (left) and the American Sundance TV advert (right).
1) How does the UK DVD cover communicate the sub-genre of the drama?
Look at these two different marketing campaigns - the UK DVD release (left) and the American Sundance TV advert (right).
1) How does the UK DVD cover communicate the sub-genre of the drama?
This is communicated through the formal wear which we would normally associate spies with, such as James Bond. Also, there is the use of text in "Over the wall/Undercover" as that body of text connotes secrecy and deciet.
2) Analyse the mise-en-scene in the UK DVD cover. What does it communicate to the audience?
In the background of the DVD cover, we notice the differences between West Germany and East Germany, one being freedomn in the image of romance, and the other being dull work and the nitty gritty side of Germany. Also, the lighting makes it seem as if Martin is looking up at the sun, almost at his freedom and security in life, emotionally and financially perhaps.
2) Analyse the mise-en-scene in the UK DVD cover. What does it communicate to the audience?
In the background of the DVD cover, we notice the differences between West Germany and East Germany, one being freedomn in the image of romance, and the other being dull work and the nitty gritty side of Germany. Also, the lighting makes it seem as if Martin is looking up at the sun, almost at his freedom and security in life, emotionally and financially perhaps.
3) How does the American branding use font, colour and graphics to appeal to an audience?
The use of an oldern looking font makes it stand out to the viewer when looking at it, instantly drawing attention to it, but the tagline text is slightly harder to read as it slightly blends in with the dull colours, almost like how Martin is trying to blend in to go undercover.
4) Why might the distributors Freemantle Media International have used different marketing campaigns in different countries?
This is because of the different views of Germany, meaning that different countries will have different beliefs on this, causing the distributors to have an overall different marketing campaign and strategy in how they market the TV show.
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