Film Study How do we analyse a film’s use of techniques to make meaning? What does a strong analytical essay look like?

Techniques Make Meaning Filmmakers use a range of techniques to communicate character and story. Camera angles and shot, sound and lighting techniques, as well as setting, costume and props all help to tell a particular story and develop characters. We write about the meaning made in films by deconstructing scenes and looking at the various techniques used. We must also consider the context of the composers in order to understand the real reason for the film being made and what social/political message might be being conveyed in the subtext of the film. ‘Subtext’ is the hidden message of a text (e.g. a movie about a dog who bites his owner might really be about distrust in our community. A red herring is a piece of information that intentionally misleads the audience.

Practice Essay Question How do the composers of Shrek use film techniques to introduce characters and subvert fairy-tale conventions?

How do the composers of Shrek use film techniques to introduce characters and subvert fairytale conventions? Grade /20 Criteria A B C D E

Essay Plan Introduction – thesis statement about the need to modernise fairytales characters and conventions Body Paragraph 1 – Shrek introduced through film techniques which subvert typical villain/hero conventions Body Paragraph 2 – Farquaad introduced as a bit of a red herring. Body Paragraph 3 – lighting used to make Fiona initially adhere to ‘damsel in distress’ convention, but her character then subverts this convention Conclusion – clear wrapping up of points

Introduction Modern filmmakers need to subvert traditional fairytale conventions in order to engage modern audiences and relate to modern issues. The composers of Shrek have effectively employed purposeful use of camera shots and angles, non-diegetic sound and lighting to introduce characters in ways that subvert conventions and parody traditional roles through the use of red herrings.