Sergei Eisenstein Lecture Notes

Flashcards on Sergei Eisenstein and Film Theory

Moscow Art Theatre

One of two Russian post-revolutionary theatre schools, focused on psychological realism and faithful replication of reality.

Constructivism

One of two Russian post-revolutionary theatre schools, antirealistic approach using useful/manipulable material.

Neutralization

The process of making elements of theatre (dialogue, set, etc.) into manipulable material, similar to color in painting.

Kabuki Theatre Inspiration

Meaning in form, not plot

exaggerated stylisation, sounds, costume, decor

Montage of Attractions

Each shot or element should be a psychological stimulus, form a chain of shocks

Transference

Meaning or emotion moves from one element to another

Synaesthesia

several elements combine at the same time.

Kuleshov effect

The effect demonstrates how the same shot, when juxtaposed with different images, can create different meanings.

Attractions (shots)

striking elements

shocking image, sound, or action

Metrical Montage

Conflict in duration of shots.

Rhythmical Montage

Conflict according to content of shots.

Tonal Montage

Conflict between emotional meanings of shots.

Overtonal Montage

Combination of metrical, rhythmical, and tonal montage.

Intellectual Montage

Collision of images/ideas to create a new meaning.

Talking films

Using sound in a naturalistic level corresponding with movement on the screen, and providing illusion.

Theme

The general quality that emerges when juxtaposing partial details in a montage, creating a unified and generalized image experienced by both the creator and the viewer.