Composition in "Drive"

Here is a great little video essay exploring an approach to composition -- the quadrant system. It is, needless to say, suitable for an extra credit review.

Lighting a Face

We were talking about lighting today, and how it can be used to convey meaning. So check this out...

An example of just how important light is and how it can so easily change how things appear. pic.twitter.com/OA6azIG9i1
— Retaliation Films (@retaliationfilm) February 20, 2015

Video Essay Extra Credit

Here are a few video essays I found for which you might wish to view and complete an essay analysis. The first one is on the psychology of watching movies, and the second is on Michael Bay's use of cinematography and editing.

There is also a great one on sound design that can be found HERE.

Direct Cuts versus Overlap Editing

Here's that Jackie Chan video from Every Frame a Painting. It's a great discussion of direct cuts versus overlap editing. Feel free to do one of those extra credit essay reviews if you watch it.

Psycho Cinematic Breakdown

Check out these three scenes from Hitchcock's Psycho. Definitely not the most famous of shots from the film, but still pretty interesting in terms of cinematography.









I take it back. That last one is pretty famous.

Here's your task:

Watch all three clips. Select one that you'd like to write about.

Using the 'Cinematic Breakdown' forms, break the scene down - moment by moment, frame by frame. Identify all of the techniques of cinematography that are used in the clip. For each technique, (A) describe the shot in detail, and (B) explain in detail what effect the cinematic choice creates for the viewer.

Hints - Use your notes! Use the precise terms! Use details in your descriptions and explanations!

If you have any questions, feel free to address them in the comments section below. Remember, your objective here is to demonstrate an understanding of how filmmakers use cinematography to manipulate an audience.

Good Luck. Have fun.

Hitchcock Goes Psycho

Now that we've viewed Hitchcock's Psycho, read the article entitled "Alfred Hitchcock Goes Psycho." As you read your copy of the article, annotate it: underline or highlight interesting or compelling facts and ideas, and write in the margin questions that the article raises. That's step one. You will be graded on the thoroughness and thoughtfulness of your annotations. You may not be allowed to move on to step two if you have not completed step one. So ANNOTATE.

Step two: In the comments section below, post a perspective/reaction you have not just to the film, but to the article. Your post should be thoughtful and thorough, and grammar and spelling counts. Once you've posted your comment, you're ready for step three: extra credit. You may comment on your peers' responses as much as you'd like. Feel free to agree, disagree, build, re-direct, etc. Just keep it friendly.

Once again, we are conducting a discussion here. Ask questions. Respond to others. Respond to people who have responded to you. Etc.