Sunday, 26 September 2010

Analysing Film: Terminology

Composition:
Composition includes many different things to consider when making up a shot. For example, framing, the rule of thirds, depth of field and focus pulls. What is included in the shot; the background, characters etc are also a part of this. The 'rule' of thirds is that the subject of interest in placed either slightly to the left or right of the centre of the shot, so that they fill one third of the frame. This creates a well-balanced shot that includes both what's of interest, and it's surroundings. The depth of field refers to what is in focus, whether it is shallow or deep in the frame. All these features contribute to composition.

Editing:
Editing is another important part of film making, as it allows one to compose clips in a such a way to achieve the desired effect of the film. It also allows for adding in visual and audio effects as well as transitions; these features help to create parts of the film that would be non-existent in real life (i.e aliens, ghosts etc).

Sound:
In order to create atmosphere in a film (such as anticipation, fear, etc) sound is often used in an effective way to achieve such an ambience.
  • Diegetic Sound - this is the sound that can be heard by the characters in the film; dialogue from other characters, sound effects of an object (a car engine, a baby crying), etc
  •  Non-Digetic Sound - this is the sound that cannot be heard by the characters in the film; narrative speech or commentary, soundtrack to build atmosphere, other sound effects to create ambience.

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