Development of Urban Drama

Kitchen Sink Drama

Kitchen sink realism is a cultural movement that began in the late 1950's and early 1960's mainly in film and TV. It was used as a style of social realism, often featuring young working class British people in a domestic environment. The dramas particularly focus on the struggles and lives of those in the less affluent parts of Britain, London being a common setting for this. One of the first insights into the new style of drama was in 1956 in Osborne's 'Look back in anger'. 

Urban Drama

 

The development of urban drama has been something that has expanded and shaped film and TV today. Particularly in Britain, these types of productions are becoming increasingly popular; however, the movement has now started to arise in America. 

Urban Drama is highly known for its expression of a realistic outlook in society and its attempt to tackle social issues of the time. Through the years the genre has started to explicitly show aspects of the urban life such as gangs, drugs, racism, sex and violence.

The protagonist in Urban Dramas end to reflect strongly on their race and social upbringing This idea can build them up as what is known as a 'Product of the Environment'. More modern day films that portray these ideas include 'Kidulthood', 'Ill Manners' and 'This is England'. 
The Antagonist is Urban Dramas is generally consider the rival of the protagonist. for example, they might be seen as a traitor or displayed as a rival gang member. 

The environment is typically set in a deprived area in the city such as council estates. scenes are often set in the streets or alleyways or locations such as bars, drug houses etc. The location can be a very important part of showing the territorial attributes of the characters involved.