Film analysis is more than just watching a movie; it’s about understanding how filmmakers use various techniques to convey meaning. Just as a painter uses shape and color, or a writer uses language, a filmmaker uses visual and auditory elements to tell a story and evoke emotions. A film analysis paper aims to explore how these elements contribute to the film’s overall message. This guide will provide a framework, similar to the insights found in “A Short Guide To Writing About Film 8th Edition Pdf,” to help you delve deeper into the art of film analysis.
The Filmmaker’s Choices
Every aspect of a film, from the camera angles to the soundtrack, is a deliberate choice made by the filmmaker. When you analyze a film, consider why these choices were made and what effect they might have on the audience. David Bordwell, Kristin Thompson, and Jeff Smith, in Film Art: An Introduction, pose insightful questions that highlight how films communicate meaning through form.
Does the use of music or noise alter our attitude toward a character? Does the composition of the shot tend to make us concentrate on a particular detail (4.153, the shot of Anne’s face in Day of Wrath)? Does the use of camera movement hold off story information to create suspense, as in the opening of Touch of Evil (pp. 213–215)? Does the use of discontinuous editing cue us to create thematic comparisons, as in the sequence we analyzed in October (pp. 259–262)?
Bordwell, Thompson, & Smith, 2017, p. 309.
Let’s explore key strategies for effective film analysis.
Persuasive Argumentation
A film analysis paper, like any academic essay, is a form of persuasive writing. It requires a central argument, or thesis statement, typically presented in the introduction. This thesis is then supported by evidence and analysis in the body paragraphs.
Your evidence should consist of specific examples from the film(s) you are studying. Depending on the assignment, you might also incorporate external sources, like film criticism or historical context, to enrich your analysis.
Analysis, Not Review
The purpose isn’t to judge whether you enjoyed the film or to recommend it to others. The core is to analyze it. Analysis involves breaking down the film into its components and demonstrating how they work together to create a cohesive whole. Effective film analysis reveals insights about the film’s construction that might be missed during a casual viewing. Instead of simply stating that a shot is beautiful, examine the cinematic techniques used to create that effect.
Minimize Plot Summary
Summary describes what happened; analysis explains how and why. In a film analysis, assume your reader is familiar with the plot. Focus on explaining the film’s construction and its impact. Only summarize plot points necessary for understanding your analysis.
Deconstructing the Narrative
Don’t take the narrative for granted. Every narrative choice results from creative decisions and requires critical analysis. Consider:
- How is the sequence of events structured? Is it linear?
- From whose perspective is the story told? Is the narration restricted or unrestricted, subjective or objective?
- If the film lacks a conventional narrative, what organizing principle does it employ?
Remember, your analysis should consider both narrative and stylistic elements. If your argument could apply equally to the novel the film is based on, you are not analyzing the film as a film.
Exploring Themes
Films often explore universal themes, such as love, death, or good versus evil. However, filmmakers approach these themes differently. Instead of simply identifying a theme, analyze what the filmmaker is saying about that theme and how this message is reinforced through the film’s form and style.
Contextualizing the Film
Understanding a film’s genre, place in film history, or the filmmaker’s style can enhance your analysis. Consider:
- Genre: Does the film adhere to or deviate from genre conventions?
- Film History: Is the film part of a specific cinematic movement?
- Filmmaker: Is the film the work of a known auteur, and how does it reflect their distinctive style?
Ideological Perspectives
Films can promote social or political messages, intentionally or unintentionally. Analyze the values the film advocates, how they reflect the time period, and how the film represents social relations. Also, be aware of any potential biases or prejudices.
Key Takeaways
By considering these elements and applying analytical thinking, you can elevate your film analysis from a simple review to a deep exploration of the art of filmmaking. Referencing resources like “A Short Guide to Writing about Film 8th Edition PDF” can provide further guidance and examples to strengthen your arguments. Always remember to support your claims with specific examples and thoughtful reasoning.
Further Reading
- Bordwell, David, Kristin Thompson, and Jeff Smith. “Glossary.” In Film Art: An Introduction, 11th ed., G1–6. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2017.
- Corrigan, Timothy. “Film Terms and Topics for Film Analysis and Writing.” In A Short Guide to Writing about Film, 8th ed., 36–82. Glenview: Pearson, 2012.
- Gocsik, Karen, Richard Barsam, and Dave Monahan. “Formal Analysis.” In Writing about Movies, 4th ed., 35–54. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2016.
