Framework for Analyzing Film

Narrativethe story, story line, what

the story line is based on; two opposing elements; disruption of an equilibrium and how a new equilibrium sets in

Charactersheroes, villains, helpers, main

characters, supportingcharacters,

how characters function and contribute to our understanding

of the story

Settingphysical environment in

which filming occurs, indoor or outdoor

setting, its significance

ThemeGeneral statement about the

subject of the film

Signsanything perceptible that has

significance beyond its usual functionor meaning; an object, a sound, a person, an act, a color

Genre (just a fancy word for “kind”

romance, comedy, suspense, a combination of different genres

Actingthe performance of actors,

whether it is convincing or not

Costumesformal clothes, informal

clothes, their color, and theircontribution to the film

Make-upstyle, color, whether it is

exaggerated or plain, the effects itcreates, colors

Camera Angles, Movements, Positions

low camera angle, high camera

angle, dose-up, extreme close-up, tilted camerahow these affect our

understanding

Sound and Visionsound effects,

soundtrack music, visual effects

LightingIllumination in a scene

The Language of Film In order to “read” film,

students must understand how the director uses

1. Camera

2. Lights

3. Sound

Questions to consider:What is pace or pacing? How does a director achieve pace in a film? What elements can he use? 

(Consider: camera movement, lighting, editing, selection of music, etc.)

What is mood?  What is purpose?

Mis en sceneThis French term comes originally from the

theatre where it refers to  'putting the scene together.'     In film language it refers to      - setting and props (including architecture and interior design)     - costume, hairstyles and make-up     - body language and facial expressions of the characters     - the use of color and design