The Codes and Convention of Coming of age Films

Researching the film Submarine

Here I have been researching the codes of conventions in coming of age indie films. The film that I researched was submarine. Some conventional things that I have found in a variety of indie films are, the main character is usually suffering from depression/an unfortunate event has taken place in there life (death of family member, usually parent).

Due to the fact I have to create a opening sequence, I watch the opening sequence of Submarine and I found that the main character seem sad/lonely staring into space. The Opening scene takes place in his room (boy looking out the window), and also next to the sea (staring at the horizon). It also takes place in a seaside town, that looks very boring and lifeless. The main character is framed in a way that makes him look vulnerable, depressed and quiet boring, this is done by a high angle shot, looking down at the character, and framing him centred of the screen which makes him look plain and boring. I also found that the main character wares dark colours (Blacks & Greys) to re-enforce the fact he is suffering from depression, and is in a dark place


This title is something that I want to take for inspiration for my film, because it is bold, and very simple. The Simple font fits/works with the atmosphere very well because its not cluttered and over the top.