Film notes

Allusion

A direct or indirect reference to an external event, person, or cultural idea in a film.

Camera Angle

The perspective chosen to photograph a subject, impacting how the audience perceives the shot.

Costume

The garments worn by actors, designed to reflect the film’s time period and characters.

Dialogue

Spoken lines in a film, which can include overlapping speech or be matched to lip movements through dubbing.

Epiphany

A moment of sudden insight or realization experienced by the protagonist, typically near the climax.

Flashback

A narrative technique that returns to a past event, providing background and context to the current story.

Flashforward

A narrative technique that depicts a future event or scene, projecting ahead of the film's present time.

Foil

A character that contrasts with the protagonist to highlight specific traits and qualities.

Juxtaposition

The placement of two images or scenes together to compare, contrast, or establish a relationship.

Mise en Scene

The arrangement of all elements in a shot, including settings, props, and actors, orchestrated by the director.

Montage

An editing technique that combines a series of short shots to create a coherent sequence or convey a larger idea.

Non-diegetic Score

Sound that does not originate from the film's world, added in post-production, such as musical scores or narration.

Opening Credits/Title (Sequence)

The initial presentation of credits that introduce the film, often setting its mood.

Stock Character

A predictable minor character whose actions align with established stereotypes.

Subtext

The underlying meanings of a character's actions or dialogue that hint at deeper themes.