Film is a visual medium. As such the power of visual images are, of course, important.
Often objects and locations are used symbolically. Characters can be used allegorically, standing in for a larger idea or concept. We often complain that some films create characters that are stereotypical - that is we know the TYPE. This does make it easier for our filmmakers to communicate IDEA and THEME quickly without having to bother with character development of EVERY character.
One way a filmmaker stresses importance is by using FREQUENCY in a story (how often an object or location appears -- or is mentioned). A filmmaker may use MISE EN SCENE or MISE EN SHOT to show important locations, items, or to suggest the juxtaposition of ideas between two things (a character and an object, for instance).
Today, as you watch Citizen Kane, be aware of frequency, mise en scene, stereotype, and objects that may be symbols or metaphors and watch for them. Find at least one example (although you may find more than that...) and list it on the front of the index card.
The BIG intellectual question is WHY are certain shots or items or characters portrayed or shown that way? What is the director/photographer/writer trying emphasize or communicate? Also, what METAPHOR may be used and for what purpose?
On the back of your index card, suggest meaning. Why is the subject on the front of the card being shown? What's the deal? What metaphor or larger meaning is the artist(s) attempting to communicate?
Turn in your card at the end of class today.
HOMEWORK: Your second pitch project (see previous posts) are due Friday. Chop, chop. Use the character worksheet to help you flesh out potential protagonists or antagonists.
Often objects and locations are used symbolically. Characters can be used allegorically, standing in for a larger idea or concept. We often complain that some films create characters that are stereotypical - that is we know the TYPE. This does make it easier for our filmmakers to communicate IDEA and THEME quickly without having to bother with character development of EVERY character.
One way a filmmaker stresses importance is by using FREQUENCY in a story (how often an object or location appears -- or is mentioned). A filmmaker may use MISE EN SCENE or MISE EN SHOT to show important locations, items, or to suggest the juxtaposition of ideas between two things (a character and an object, for instance).
Today, as you watch Citizen Kane, be aware of frequency, mise en scene, stereotype, and objects that may be symbols or metaphors and watch for them. Find at least one example (although you may find more than that...) and list it on the front of the index card.
The BIG intellectual question is WHY are certain shots or items or characters portrayed or shown that way? What is the director/photographer/writer trying emphasize or communicate? Also, what METAPHOR may be used and for what purpose?
On the back of your index card, suggest meaning. Why is the subject on the front of the card being shown? What's the deal? What metaphor or larger meaning is the artist(s) attempting to communicate?
Turn in your card at the end of class today.
HOMEWORK: Your second pitch project (see previous posts) are due Friday. Chop, chop. Use the character worksheet to help you flesh out potential protagonists or antagonists.
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