How to Analyze a Film |
Below is a list of elements and questions to help you when analyzing films. |
Films are similar to novels or short stories in that they tell a story. They include the same genres: romantic, historical, detective, thriller, adventure, horror, and science fiction. However, films may also include sub-groups such as: action, comedy, tragedy, westerns and war. The methods you use to analyze a film are closely related to those used to analyze literature; nevertheless, films are multi-medial. They are visual media made for viewers. Films take command of more of our senses to create special atmospheres, feelings or to bring out emotions.
Along with the literary elements such as plot, setting, characterization, structure, and theme, which make up the text or screenplay, there are many different film techniques used to tell the story or narrative. Attention is paid to sound, music, lighting, camera angles, and editing. What is important is to focus on how all the elements are used together in making a good film. |
Film Contents
Film Facts
Setting Setting is a description of where and when the story takes place.
Conflict or tension is usually the heart of the film and is related to the main characters.
In films imagery are the elements used to create pictures in our minds. They may include:
Cinematic Effects Soundtrack
Lighting
Editing Editing is the way in which a film editor together with the director cuts and assembles the scenes. The way the scenes are joined together creates the rhythm of the motion picture. Scenes can be long and drawn out or short and choppy.
Conclusion When analyzing films for school work or projects, you may be asked to use some or all of the characteristics above. Link those elements together that seem most logical. Try to think of the film as a whole and how the elements mentioned above work together to bring out the main message of the film. |
Introduction to Plays and Film
Click below for a powerpoint presentation that gives college students a brief introduction to plays and film.
LINKS
- http://homeschoolingteen.com/article/film-as-literature/
- http://www.teachwithmovies.org/
- https://moviesheets.com/
- http://www.math.harvard.edu/~knill/mathmovies/
- https://topdocumentaryfilms.com/
- http://www.teachhub.com/video-writing-prompts