Film Appreciation

Allusion

A direct or indirect reference to a well-known cultural idea.

Camera Angle

The point of view or perspective chosen from which to photograph a subject, including various angles like front, behind, side, top, high, low, straight-on, tilted, and subjective.

Costume

Garments or clothing worn by actors in a film

Dialogue

Spoken lines in a film by actors

Epiphany

A moment of sudden spiritual insight for the protagonist

Flashback

A film technique that alters the narrative order by showing a previous event

Flashforward

A technique depicting a scene, event, or shot projected into a future time beyond the present timeline of the film.

Foil

An acting role used for personality comparison or contrast with the protagonist, highlighting a character trait.

Juxtaposition

Contiguous positioning of two images, characters, objects, or scenes to compare and contrast them or establish a relationship.

Mise en Scene

A French term for 'staging', referring to all elements placed before the camera within the frame, including settings, decor, props, actors, and more.

Montage

A filming technique and editing style that assembles a series of short shots into a sequence, usually without dialogue.

Non-diegetic Score

Sound that does not originate from within the film’s world, added by sound editors in post-production, including musical scores and narration.

Opening Credits/Title Sequence

The presentation of the film's opening credits which sets the mood of the film.

Stock Character

A minor character whose actions are predictable and stereotypical, often exemplifying standard situations.

Subtext

The deeper meanings behind a character’s actions or spoken lines, encouraging the audience to read between the lines.