EXPLORING FILM FORM - Core

Focus of the unit

This unit focuses on the micro features of film and the construction of meaning and emotion.

Understanding will be fostered through:

• studying micro features of film: mise-en-scène, performance, cinematography, editing and sound

• identifying how these construct meanings and contribute to the sensory impact of film

• reflecting on individual response to micro features of film as a means of exploring the relationship between film and spectator

• creating a sequence to demonstrate how micro features produce meanings and responses.

Throughout this unit, the emphasis will be on the interaction of film and spectator.

Content (a)

The micro features of film

This unit requires the study of the micro features of film.

• Mise-en-scène includes setting, props, staging, costume and make- up, figure expression and movement and off-screen space.

• Performance includes physical expression, vocal delivery and interaction between performers (with reference to issues of staging/choreography where relevant).

• Cinematography includes photographic elements (e.g. camera position, colour, lens, depth of focus), lighting, framing and composition and special effects.

• Editing includes the organisation of time, both within a sequence and across sections of the narrative and the organisation of space, especially in creating coherence for the spectator. The principal conventions of continuity editing, such as shot/reverse shot and the 180 degree rule, will be studied. The uses of montage editing will also be considered.

• Sound includes diegetic sound, non-diegetic sound and the variety of ways in which aural elements (e.g. speech, music and noise) are used in relation to visuals.