Textual Analysis & Representation: Luther- Sexuality (Christmas 50)

This extract is from Luther and focuses on sexuality.

The use of dialogue in this extract emphasises how sexuality is represented in tv dramas. Ian begins by talking about Zoe 'washing sheets' which reflects the gender stereotype that women belong in the kitchen and should clean the house. He then continues and begins using language and phrases such as 'whore' and 'strip her down' which are incredibly harsh and rude; reflecting on how women used to be treated and viewed. This idea that women are whores still goes on in today's society. The phrase 'strip her down' links with the male gaze theory as he clearly viewed Zoe Luther in a sexual way; immediately sexualising her. Non diegetic sounds like music are added in to build tension, and the song played at the end of the clip could be seen as a juxtaposition as the scene itself is quite sad as Ian has been shot; but there is a sense of happiness for Mark as he finally gets revenge. As this happens, Luther is the only character in focus and it shows his pained facial expressions. This shows that he is suffering which men don't like to be seen as, as stereotypically they are seen to be strong minded.

This extract follows a linear narrative and includes continuity editing to show the realism of the piece. The extract cuts from one person to another; especially in conversation. This is where we see the camera work of shot reverse shots to help the audience see the facial expressions of the characters. A close up is used to capture the moment when Luther strangles Ian to show his anger; which links with the stereotype that men are physically strong and violent. A low angle is used to show Luther on the floor after being stabbed which could be seen as him being weak which men, ideally, don't want to be viewed like. A mid shot is used when Alice shoots Ian which lets the audience know that she is the one who did it. This shows Alice as some form of hero in the sense that she helped Mark put an end to Ian; which goes against the stereotype that men are usually the heroes.

All of the characters wear formal clothing which reflects their professional jobs. Luther is in dull colours which could suggest his distress over Zoe's death. Ian wears a suit which links with his job as a DCI officer, however his top button of his shirt is undone which could imply his scruffiness and as a way to catch the female attention as he could think it is cool. Mark also wears a suit and wears darker colours than Luther which suggests he is suffering more than Luther, which is evident by his pained facial expressions. Alice wears minimal makeup, but enough to highlight her natural beauty; especially her eyes and lips- this could be seen as a sexual thing as it emphasises her beauty which men would enjoy. Her outfit is professional and conservative which she may feel is important when dealing with Ian as he sexualised Zoe and used her in a sexual way; initiated by her clothing choice.

Representation of Sexuality in TV Dramas.

American TV Dramas:

Heterosexuality: The Vampire Diaries: Elena and Damon.


In this clip we see heterosexuality being represented by Elena and Damon. Heterosexuality is seen as the preferred form of sexuality as it is the most traditional (involving a male and female). The use of camera angles such as two shots show the couple in the frame together; representing their relationship. The uplifting rhythm further emphasises their relationship by suggesting it is happy and healthy. Damon supports the idea of the stereotypical male in a heterosexual relationship by dressing in a suit with this hair slicked back; along with the direct eye contact he has with Elena to create romantic chemistry between them. The dialogue between them is about marriage and how Damon loves Elena so much that he would turn himself from a vampire to a human to be with her.








Homosexuality: Pretty Little Liars: Emily and Maya.
In this clip we see homosexuality being represented by Emily and Maya. Homosexuality is a form of sexuality involving two members of the same sex in a relationship. Emily has been openly gay for a while, whereas Maya hasn't. Maya's parents aren't supportive of her being in a relationship with Emily as they are very traditional and expect her to be in a heterosexual relationship. This causes them to move away from Rosewood. In this clip we see the effort Maya has gone to so Emily can see how much she loves her. The lighting in this clip is done by candlelight which gives off a romantic and sexy atmosphere. The camera angles of two shots show the couple in the frame together as they slow dance and over the shoulder shots represent their facial expressions (mainly Emily) as Maya expresses her feelings and also by decorated the room; so they have alone time with no one interrupting.




Bisexuality: Pretty Little Liars: Emily and Paige/ Emily and Ben.
When the show first began, Emily was represented as a confused character. She was in a relationship with a boy named Ben, however she had kissed her friend Alison. After that, Emily became confused as to which sex she prefers. She ends up fully Lesbian after being in multiple relationships with other females. The music in this scene provides a lively energy to reflect on Emily and Ben's relationship. They are making out in a car which is seen as romantic by American teens.

British TV Dramas:

Heterosexuality: Skins: Effy and Freddie.






































A low angle is used when Freddie first opens the door for Effy. The music in the scene is romantic and lively suggesting she has gone there to express her love. The low angle could have been used as a way to show how in a heterosexual relationship, the male is (stereotypically) dominant over the female and the female looks up towards him as females (stereotypically) find taller men more attractive. This is further emphasised when the angle switches to a high angle so the camera is looking down on Effy to show the dominance of Freddie. A close up is used during the sex scene between the couple to show the intimacy of their relationship and to emphasise the sexual tension.




Homosexuality: Coronation Street: Sophie and Sian.
















































In this scene we see Sophie and Sian together. Sian has just been dumped by her boyfriend and goes to Sophie for comfort. A close up shows the two girls as they hug; showing the intimacy between them. A close up is used again when we see Sophie leaning in to kiss Sian. This is done slowly to build tension between the characters and for the audience to feel tense as it is unexpected. The lighting in the room is dim which gives off a romantic vibe which Sophie is clearly feeling for Sian. However, after the kiss, Sian leaves in tears; implying she is confused as to what has just happened. A medium shot shows Sophie sitting down on her bed with guilt written across her face as she feels bad for kissing Sian after her breakup.