Film Appreciation Chapter 13

What cinematic style emerged in the 1940s influenced by German Expressionism?

Film Noir

Which director is known for the film 'Citizen Kane'?

Orson Welles

What was unique about Orson Welles' deal with RKO Pictures?

He was given complete artistic control and a two-picture deal.

What significant radio broadcast did Orson Welles produce in 1938?

An adaptation of H.G. Wells' 'War of the Worlds'.

What is the 'Rosebud device' in 'Citizen Kane'?

A narrative element used to frame the film through the search for the meaning of Kane's last word.

Who co-wrote 'Citizen Kane' with Orson Welles?

Herman Mankiewicz

What innovative technique did Bernard Hermann introduce in film scoring?

Radio scoring, using short musical cues to transition scenes.

What is the significance of the 'lightning-mix' technique developed by Welles?

It links complex montage sequences through related sounds or phrases.

What cinematographic innovation is Gregg Toland known for?

Development of deep focus technology.

What does the term 'Film Noir' mean?

It means 'black film' and refers to a style of filmmaking characterized by dark themes and visual style.

What are common characteristics of Film Noir films?

Low key lighting, a femme fatale, flashbacks, and the crossing of real time and remembered time.

Who was John Huston and what was his contribution to Film Noir?

A talented writer and director known for his screenplays and artistic direction in Film Noir.

What does the story of 'Citizen Kane' illustrate about the American Dream?

It shows that hard work, money, or power cannot create success without belief in something beyond oneself.

What was the outcome of 'Citizen Kane' at the Academy Awards?

It was nominated for nine Academy Awards and won for Best Original Screenplay.

What role did Orson Welles play in the Mercury Theatre?

He co-founded it and produced innovative theatrical productions.

What was the impact of 'Citizen Kane' on the film industry?

It changed the industry with its innovative techniques and storytelling.

What was a key narrative technique used in 'Citizen Kane' to condense time?

The use of montage to summarize years of events in a short sequence.

What is a 'femme fatale' in the context of Film Noir?

An alluring and dangerous woman who captivates the male protagonist.

How did Welles' background in theater influence his filmmaking?

He applied theatrical techniques and sound design from radio to film.

What was the significance of the breakfast table montage in 'Citizen Kane'?

It illustrated the breakdown of Kane's first marriage in a condensed format.

What was the relationship between Orson Welles and RKO Pictures?

Welles had a unique partnership where he maintained creative control over his projects.

What did Welles and Mankiewicz's collaboration on 'Citizen Kane' achieve?

They created a groundbreaking screenplay that influenced future filmmaking.

What was the initial public reaction to Welles' 'War of the Worlds' broadcast?

It caused panic and mass hysteria among listeners who believed it was real.

What was one of the first films directed by John Huston?

He was one of the first directors of Film Noir, contributing significantly to the genre.

What technique did John Huston use to enhance his film production process?

He sketched scenes prior to production, which helped in framing and reduced editing time.

Which film is considered John Huston's directorial debut and a classic of Film Noir?

The Maltese Falcon (1941)

What themes are commonly explored in John Huston's films?

Human frailty, including cowardice, obsession, greed, and pride.

Who are the notable actors in The Maltese Falcon?

Humphrey Bogart and Mary Astor.

What is the significance of Arthur Edeson in Film Noir?

He is considered one of the fathers of Film Noir lighting and was nominated for several Best Cinematography Oscars.

What visual style characterizes Film Noir?

Black and white cinematography emphasizing contrast with deep shadows and dramatic angles.

How did the portrayal of women change in Film Noir compared to earlier films?

Women were often depicted as Femme Fatales, luring men into destructive situations, contrasting with earlier portrayals of purity.

What is the typical characterization of male leads in Film Noir?

They are often anti-heroes with ambiguous morals, tough yet sympathetic.

What was the impact of World War II on Hollywood films?

Hollywood produced films that entertained, educated, and exalted, with many stars serving in the military.

What was the purpose of Frank Capra's propaganda films during WWII?

They aimed to educate soldiers on the reasons for fighting in the war.

What was the content of Huston's film The Battle of San Pietro?

It depicted the brutal realities of war without glorifying it, leading to censorship by the War Department.

What was the subject of Huston's film Let There Be Light?

It focused on veterans suffering from what is now known as PTSD, and was banned for decades.

What historical event coincided with the production of Casablanca?

The Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor and the subsequent declaration of war by the U.S.

Who directed Casablanca and what was its release strategy?

Directed by Michael Curtiz, it was rushed into production to coincide with the Casablanca Conference.

What was the significance of the ending of Casablanca?

It was not decided until the day of shooting, reflecting the uncertainty of wartime.

What role did Bob Hope play during WWII?

He entertained troops through USO shows from 1941 until 1991.

What was the relationship between John Huston and his family in the film industry?

He directed both his father, Walter Huston, and his daughter, Angelica Huston, to Oscar-winning performances.

What was Huston's approach to adapting Dashiell Hammett's novel for The Maltese Falcon?

He maintained Hammett's quick-paced style and used detailed storyboards for efficient shooting.

What was the significance of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) founded by Edeson?

It represented a collective effort to advance the art and craft of cinematography.

What was the impact of the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) on Hollywood?

It led to the creation of the Committee for the First Amendment to defend artistic freedom.

How did Huston's films differ from those of Frank Capra?

Huston's films often depicted darker themes and the inevitability of death, contrasting Capra's optimistic narratives.

What was Humphrey Bogart's first romantic lead?

Casablanca

Why was Casablanca shot in sequence?

The script was rewritten each day.

What love triangle is central to Casablanca?

The characters Ilsa, Rick, and Victor.

Who directed Casablanca?

Michael Curtiz

Where was Michael Curtiz born?

Budapest, Hungary

How many times was Michael Curtiz nominated for Best Director?

Seven times

Which film did Michael Curtiz win Best Director for?

Casablanca (1943)

Who is known as the King of the Western?

John Ford

What is John Ford known for in his films?

Deep focus and panoramic photography.

Which film propelled John Wayne to stardom?

Stagecoach (1939)

What was significant about The Best Years of Our Lives?

It featured the first disabled actor in a major role.

Who directed The Best Years of Our Lives?

William Wyler

What award did William Wyler receive in 1965?

Irving Thalberg Lifetime Achievement Award

What genre films did Howard Hawks direct?

Gangster, screwball comedy, film noir, western, and musical.

Which film did Billy Wilder win Oscars for Best Director and Best Screenwriter?

Double Indemnity (1944)

What is a common theme in Billy Wilder's films?

An articulate cynic in search of redemption.

What film featured Marilyn Monroe's iconic dress scene?

The Seven Year Itch (1955)

What was the impact of World War II on American cinema?

Hollywood found a new audience—teenagers.

What does cinematic design affect in film?

The audience's perception of visual elements.

What was unique about John Ford's portrayal of Native Americans?

He presented them as a civilization separate but equal.

What was the first film to feature a disabled actor in a major role?

The Best Years of Our Lives

Which director collaborated with John Wayne on multiple films?

John Ford

What was the significance of Stagecoach in John Ford's career?

It helped cast John Wayne in a leading role.

What was the focus of films directed by Howard Hawks?

Grace under pressure and storytelling.

What major award did Wilder receive in 1976?

AFI Lifetime Achievement Award

What was the role of cinematographer Gregg Toland in The Best Years of Our Lives?

He created a realistic look using deep focus technology.