How does Arnold use the form of social realism to develop the character of Zoe?
As soon as the film starts, we are introduced to the tone and formula of the story. The film's exposition begins in media-res, caught in a violent brawl between the main character Zoe and her neighbour. The audience can already gather from these first few seconds that she is perhaps not the best or most conventional parent - she chooses violence to deal with this situation. Although, this shows us the lengths she is willing to go to to defend her children. Her neighbour says Zoe is not fit to look after her children and that she'll call social services. The setting is a run down council estate, much like ones we see in real life - this is an example of how Arnold uses social realism to produce the truth and reality of Zoe's lifestyle. Her baby is lacking clothing and diapers and the rest of the children appear messy, showing the deprivation that her and her family are enduring. The hand held shots which are used t...