Film Basics

Film & Lit: Unit 1

Literal Translation

NO CHANGE, reproduces the plot and ALL of its attending details as closely as p

Traditional Translation

SOME CHANGE, maintains the OVERALL traits of the text(plot, setting, style, etc.), but changes details as filmmakers deem necessary

Radical Translation

EVERYTHING CHANGE, reshapes the text in extreme and revolutionary ways in order to make the film a fully independent work

3 Necessities(for a great film)

character, conflict, theme

Strong Character(2)

recognition(personality, desires, relatable situation), complexity

strong conflict(3)

1. Provides purpose to story

2. Aids character development

3. High stakes

Strong Theme(3)

1. Universality

2. Emotional Authenticity

3. Timely Relevance

What creates a film(4):

narrative(literature), images, sounds, time(extra dimension)

Narrative / Mise-en-scene Source(2)

1. Source Material - original text which a film is derived

2. Screenplay - script of movie

Movie Locations(2)

on location - out in real world

the studio - filmed on closed set of studio lot

Set design

creation of the physical space where the performance takes place..

props

an object used by actor during filming

Lighting

Light / shadow adds empty, drama, and atmosphere

Blocking

Where actors stand/position themselves in relation to their surroundings

The movement and positioning of actors within a shot in order to create the performance

Shot Types(5)

Establishing, Long/Wide, Medium, Close-Up, Extreme Close-up

Establishing Shot

long or extreme long shot

Usually for introducing location of scene

Long/Wide Shot

shows ENTIRE subject and much of surroundings

Stresses smallness of subject, compared to surroundings

Medium Shot

usually UPPER BODY, waist or knee up

Focus on body language

Close-Up Shot

ALL OR MOST of subjects HEAD

Subject fills most of frame

Emotions are the focus

Extreme Close-Up Shot

Subject or part of it fills up frame

Highlights texture of subject

Emphasizes importance and detail

Angle Types(4)

Top(bird’s eye), high, low, over the shoulder

Top Angle

Bird’s Eye

Directly overhead

Empower audience with an objective perspective

High Angle

above and looking down

Makes subject look small(fear)

Low Angle

Low and looking up

Makes subject seem bigger, more imposing

Over the Shoulder Angle

subject or part of it fills up frame

You’re part of the experience

Camera Movement

Pan - horizontal

Tilt - vertical

Movemen

Hand-held

Track/dolly

Crane shot

Zoom