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50 Film Analysis

Film analysis, what this handout is about.

This handout provides a brief definition of film analysis compared to literary analysis, provides an introduction to common types of film analysis, and offers strategies and resources for approaching assignments.

What is film analysis, and how does it differ from literary analysis?

Film analysis is the process in which film is analyzed in terms of semiotics, narrative structure, cultural context, and mise-en-scene, among other approaches. If these terms are new to you, don’t worry—they’ll be explained in the next section.

Analyzing film, like analyzing literature (fiction texts, etc.) , is a form of rhetorical analysis—critically analyzing and evaluating discourse, including words, phrases, and images. Having a clear argument and supporting evidence is every bit as critical to film analysis as to other forms of academic writing.

Unlike literature, film incorporates audiovisual elements and therefore introduces a new dimension to analysis. Ultimately, however, analysis of film is not too different. Think of all the things that make up a scene in a film: the actors, the lighting, the angles, the colors. All of these things may be absent in literature, but they are deliberate choices on the part of the director, producer, or screenwriter—as are the words chosen by the author of a work of literature. Furthermore, literature and film incorporate similar elements. They both have plots, characters, dialogue, settings, symbolism, and, just as the elements of literature can be analyzed for their intent and effect, these elements can be analyzed the same way in film.

Different types of film analysis

Listed here are common approaches to film analysis, but this is by no means an exhaustive list, and you may have discussed other approaches in class. As with any other assignment, make sure you understand your professor’s expectations. This guide is best used to understand prompts or, in the case of more open-ended assignments, consider the different ways to analyze film.

Keep in mind that any of the elements of film can be analyzed, oftentimes in tandem. A single film analysis essay may simultaneously include all of the following approaches and more. As Jacques Aumont and Michel Marie propose in Analysis of Film, there is no correct, universal way to write film analysis.

Semiotic analysis

Semiotic analysis is the analysis of meaning behind signs and symbols, typically involving metaphors, analogies, and symbolism.

This doesn’t necessarily need to be something dramatic; think about how you extrapolate information from the smallest signs in your day to day life. For instance, what characteristics can tell you about someone’s personality? Something as simple as someone’s appearance can reveal information about them. Mismatched shoes and bedhead might be a sign of carelessness (or something crazy happened that morning!), while an immaculate dress shirt and tie would suggest that the person is prim and proper. Continuing in that vein:

What might you be able to infer about characters from small hints?
How are these hints (signs) used to construct characters? How do they relate to the relative role of those characters, or the relationships between multiple characters?

Symbols denote concepts (liberty, peace, etc.) and feelings (hate, love, etc.) that they often have nothing to do with. They are used liberally in both literature and film, and finding them uses a similar process. Ask yourself:

In Frozen Elsa’s gloves appear in multiple scenes.
Her gloves are first given to her by her father to restrain her magic. She continues to wear them throughout the coronation scene, before finally, in the Let It Go sequence, she throws them away.

Again, the method of semiotic analysis in film is similar to that of literature. Think about the deeper meaning behind objects or actions.

Elsa’s gloves represent fear of her magic and, by extension, herself. Though she attempts to contain her magic by hiding her hands within gloves and denying part of her identity, she eventually abandons the gloves in a quest for self-acceptance.

Narrative structure analysis

Narrative structure analysis is the analysis of the story elements, including plot structure, character motivations, and theme. Like the dramatic structure of literature (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution), film has what is known as the Three-Act Structure: “Act One: Setup, Act Two: Confrontation, and Act Three: Resolution.” Narrative structure analysis breaks the story of the film into these three elements and might consider questions like:

How does the story follow or deviate from typical structures?
What is the effect of following or deviating from this structure?
What is the theme of the film, and how is that theme constructed?

Consider again the example of Frozen. You can use symbolism and narrative structure in conjunction by placing the symbolic objects/events in the context of the narrative structure. For instance, the first appearance of the gloves is in Act One, while their abandoning takes place in Act Two; thus, the story progresses in such a way that demonstrates Elsa’s personal growth. By the time of Act Three, the Resolution, her aversion to touch (a product of fearing her own magic) is gone, reflecting a theme of self-acceptance.

Contextual analysis

Contextual analysis is analysis of the film as part of a broader context. Think about the culture, time, and place of the film’s creation. What might the film say about the culture that created it? What were/are the social and political concerns of the time period? Or, like researching the author of a novel, you might consider the director, producer, and other people vital to the making of the film. What is the place of this film in the director’s career? Does it align with his usual style of directing, or does it move in a new direction? Other examples of contextual approaches might be analyzing the film in terms of a civil rights or feminist movement.

For example, Frozen is often linked to the LGBTQ social movement. You might agree or disagree with this interpretation, and, using evidence from the film, support your argument.

Some other questions to consider:

How does the meaning of the film change when seen outside of its culture?
What characteristics distinguishes the film as being of its particular culture?

Mise-en-scene analysis

Mise-en-scene analysis is analysis of the arrangement of compositional elements in film—essentially, the analysis of audiovisual elements that most distinctly separate film analysis from literary analysis. Remember that the important part of a mise-en-scene analysis is not just identifying the elements of a scene, but explaining the significance behind them.

What effects are created in a scene, and what is their purpose?
How does the film attempt to achieve its goal by the way it looks, and does it succeed?

Audiovisual elements that can be analyzed include (but are not limited to): props and costumes, setting, lighting, camera angles, frames, special effects, choreography, music, color values, depth, placement of characters, etc. Mise-en-scene is typically the most foreign part of writing film analysis because the other components discussed are common to literary analysis, while mise-en-scene deals with elements unique to film. Using specific film terminology bolsters credibility, but you should also consider your audience. If your essay is meant to be accessible to non-specialist readers, explain what terms mean. The Resources section of this handout has links to sites that describe mise-en-scene elements in detail.

Rewatching the film and creating screen captures (still images) of certain scenes can help with detailed analysis of colors, positioning of actors, placement of objects, etc. Listening to the soundtrack can also be helpful, especially when placed in the context of particular scenes.

Some example questions:

How is the lighting used to construct mood? Does the mood shift at any point during the film, and how is that shift in mood created?
What does the setting say about certain characters? How are props used to reveal aspects of their personality?
What songs were used, and why were they chosen? Are there any messages in the lyrics that pertain to the theme?

Writing the film analysis essay

Writing film analysis is similar to writing literary analysis or any argumentative essay in other disciplines: Consider the assignment and prompts, formulate a thesis (see the Brainstorming Handout and Thesis Statement Handout for help crafting a nuanced argument), compile evidence to prove your thesis, and lay out your argument in the essay. Your evidence may be different from what you are used to. Whereas in the English essay you use textual evidence and quotes, in a film analysis essay, you might also include audiovisual elements to bolster your argument.

When describing a sequence in a film, use the present tense, like you would write in the literary present when describing events of a novel, i.e. not “Elsa took off her gloves,” but “Elsa takes off her gloves.” When quoting dialogue from a film, if between multiple characters, use block quotes: Start the quotation on a new line, with the entire quote indented one inch from the left margin. However, conventions are flexible, so ask your professor if you are unsure. It may also help to follow the formatting of the script, if you can find it. For example:

ELSA: But she won’t remember I have powers? KING: It’s for the best.

You do not need to use quotation marks for blocked-off dialogue, but for shorter quotations in the main text, quotation marks should be double quotes (“…”).

Here are some tips for approaching film analysis:

Make sure you understand the prompt and what you are being asked to do. Focus your argument by choosing a specific issue to assess.
Review your materials. Rewatch the film for nuances that you may have missed in the first viewing. With your thesis in mind, take notes as you watch. Finding a screenplay of the movie may be helpful, but keep in mind that there may be differences between the screenplay and the actual product (and these differences might be a topic of discussion!).
Develop a thesis and an outline, organizing your evidence so that it supports your argument. Remember that this is ultimately an assignment—make sure that your thesis answers what the prompt asks, and check with your professor if you are unsure.
Move beyond only describing the audiovisual elements of the film by considering the significance of your evidence. Demonstrate understanding of not just what film elements are, but why and to what effect they are being used. For more help on using your evidence effectively, see ‘Using Evidence In An Argument’ in the Evidence Handout .

New York Film Academy Glossary Movie Outline Glossary Movie Script Database Citation Practices: Film and Television

Works Consulted

We consulted these works while writing the original version of this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find the latest publications on this topic. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial .

Aumont, Jacques, and Michel Marie. L’analyse Des Films. Paris: Nathan, 1988. Print. Pruter, Robin Franson. “Writing About Film.” Writing About Film. DePaul University, 08 Mar. 2004. Web. 01 May 2016.

Film Analysis Copyright © 2020 by Liza Long; Amy Minervini; and Joel Gladd is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to Write a Comprehensive Film Analysis: A Step-by-Step Guide

backlinkworks
Writing Articles & Reviews
October 4, 2023

Introduction

writing a comprehensive film analysis can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to IT . However, with the right approach and step-by-step guidance, you can master the art of dissecting a film and showcasing your analytical skills. In this guide, we will take you through the process of writing a comprehensive film analysis, from understanding the film’s context to delivering a well-structured and insightful review. So, let’s get started!

Step 1: Understand the Film’s Context

Before you start dissecting a film, IT is essential to understand its context. Research the director, screenwriter, and major themes of the film. Consider the historical, political, or social backdrop against which the film was made. This background knowledge will help you interpret the film effectively and provide insightful analysis.

Step 2: Watch the Film with a Critical Eye

When watching the film, do not just sit back and enjoy the story. Instead, pay attention to every aspect – from the script and acting to cinematography and editing. Take notes on your observations, both positive and negative, as well as any moments that stood out to you. These notes will serve as a foundation for your analysis.

Step 3: Analyze the Narrative Structure

One crucial aspect of a film analysis is examining its narrative structure. Identify the beginning, middle, and end of the film. Look for narrative arcs, character development, and the overall story progression. Consider how the narrative structure contributes to the film’s themes and message.

Step 4: Focus on Cinematography and Visual Elements

Cinematic techniques greatly contribute to a film’s overall impact. Analyze the cinematography, camera angles, lighting, and visual effects. Consider how these elements enhance the storytelling and convey emotions or themes. You can mention specific scenes or shots that particularly impressed or moved you.

Step 5: Evaluate the Acting and Characters

Good acting can elevate a film, and analyzing the performances of the actors is an essential part of a film analysis. Pay attention to the portrayal of characters, their development throughout the story, and the chemistry between actors. Assess whether the acting effectively conveys the intended emotions and adds depth to the narrative.

Step 6: Examine the Sound Design and Score

Sound design, including dialogue, background score, and sound effects, plays a crucial role in creating the film’s atmosphere. Analyze how sound is used to enhance the storytelling, set the mood, or create tension. Pay attention to the film’s score and explore how IT complements or contrasts with the visuals.

Step 7: Discuss Themes, Messages, and Symbolism

Many films have underlying themes, messages, or symbolism that enrich the viewing experience. Identify these elements and analyze how they contribute to the film’s overall meaning. Explore the director’s intentions behind incorporating these elements and discuss their effectiveness in conveying a particular message.

Step 8: Consider the Social and Cultural Impact

Movies often reflect the social and cultural context in which they were made. For a comprehensive analysis, discuss how the film resonates with the audience and its impact on society and popular culture. Examine the reception of the film and any controversies or debates surrounding IT .

Step 9: Provide a Well-Structured and Insightful Review

Once you have analyzed the various aspects of the film, IT ‘s time to put your thoughts together and craft a well-structured review. Start with an engaging introduction that provides a brief overview of the film and its context. Next, present your analysis in a logical manner, focusing on the key elements discussed earlier. Support your points with specific examples from the film. Finally, conclude your review with a concise summary and your overall evaluation.

writing a comprehensive film analysis requires a thoughtful and systematic approach. By understanding the film’s context, analyzing its various components, and delivering your insights in a well-structured review, you can produce an engaging analysis that showcases your analytical skills. Remember to watch the film with a critical eye, take notes, and consider the film’s impact on society. With practice, you will improve your ability to dissect films and provide thoughtful analysis.

Q: How long should a comprehensive film analysis be?

A: The length of a film analysis can vary depending on the specific requirements or guidelines you are given. However, IT is generally recommended to aim for 1000-2000 words to provide a detailed and comprehensive analysis.

Q: Do I need to include spoilers in my analysis?

A: IT is important to strike a balance between providing essential plot details and potential spoilers. If you feel that any spoiler may significantly impact the reader’s experience, IT is advisable to provide a warning or keep the analysis spoiler-free.

Q: Shall I include personal opinions in the analysis?

A: While your analysis should be rooted in objectivity and critical evaluation, IT is acceptable to include your personal opinions as long as they are supported by evidence from the film. However, be cautious not to let personal biases overshadow the overall analysis.

Q: Can I reference other film analysis articles or reviews?

A: Referencing or citing reputable film analysis articles or reviews to support your analysis can add credibility to your work. However, ensure that you properly cite your sources and avoid excessive reliance on other people’s views.

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Learn Film Analysis With This Cheat Sheet

I cannot stress enough how important it is to learn to make compelling, informed arguments when analyzing film and tv. .

We've all gotten into a debate about a movie with our friends. One says it sucks, another says it's great, and they go back and forth. If your friends are anything like mine, it probably gets personal after that.

But that's not the way it should go.

If you want to work in Hollywood, be a critic, or make films or TV shows, you should know how to speak about them in an educated way.

Late last year, I went on a rant about how important media literacy was to your film and TV career , and I'm back to tell you about this incredible course I watched FOR FREE on YouTube. It helped me in my ongoing journey to understand how to write and talk about filmmaking.

It's from video essayist Patrick (H) Willems , and it's spectacular. Over about 90 minutes, he takes you through the ins and outs of the process, theories, and coherent ways to make an argument.

Check out this amazing video from Willems, and let's talk after.

Key Areas of Film Analysis

Lighting (how a scene is lit)
Setting (location and décor)
Props (objects with significance)
Costumes and makeup
Actor movement and blocking (how they are positioned and move)
Camera angles (high, low, tilted, etc.)
Shot types (close-up, wide shot, long take, etc.)
Camera movement (pans, zooms, tracking shots, etc.)
Focus (what's sharp, what's blurry)
Types of cuts (fades, jump cuts, etc.)
Rhythm and pacing of editing
Montage (stringing shots together to create meaning)
Sound effects
Music (both score and existing songs)
Plot structure
Characters and their development

Steps For Analyzing Films

Active Viewing: Watch the film mindfully. Take notes on things that catch your interest - shots, use of music, a recurring object, etc. Watch it multiple times if possible!
Identify Your Focus: After watching, choose a specific element or a few elements you want to analyze further. This could be a theme you noticed, a particular camera technique, or how sound builds suspense, etc.
Gather Evidence: Rewatch with your focus in mind. Collect specific examples: a particular shot, a line of dialogue, a musical motif.
Form Your Thesis: What are you trying to argue about the film? How do your chosen elements contribute to this overall idea?
Build Your Argument: Use your evidence to support your thesis. Analyze individual examples, and then connect them to the broader meaning you've identified.

Types of Film Analysis

Formalist: Focuses on the technical elements (cinematography, editing, sound, etc.) and how they create meaning.
Narrative: Examines the story, characters, and themes of the film.
Ideological: Looks at how a film reflects or challenges social, political, or cultural ideas.
Psychoanalytic: Explores unconscious desires or symbolism within the film.
Cultural/Historical: Investigates the film within its historical, social, and cultural context.

What I loved about that video was how it guided you through ways to break down and study a movie. It's not just about pot or characters but about the choices the filmmakers made in everything from lenses to music to the very genre of the plot.

If you watch that video, there's not much more for me to explain - Willems does it much better than I could. But I drew up a little cheat sheet for you if you wanted to practice analyzing films and TV shows at home. I use these whenever I write about film here.

And I hope it helps you too.

Tips for Analyzing a Movie or TV Show:

Plot: Examine the storyline, conflicts, and themes presented.
Character Development : Evaluate the characters, their motivations, and how they change over time.
Cinematography: Analyze the visual style, camera angles, and lighting.
Sound: Consider the soundtrack, sound effects, and dialogue.
Direction: Evaluate the director's choices, such as shot composition and pacing.
Acting: Assess the performances of the actors, particularly regarding their characters.
Historical Context: Analyze the film in the context of the time period in which it was made.
Cultural Significance: Consider the impact of the film on society and culture.
Personal Response: Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and opinions about the film.

Remember, the goal is to develop a critical and nuanced understanding of the film. Avoid making overly simplistic or subjective evaluations.

The point of art is not only to explore someone else's vision but also to dig into your own. What does the material make you feel? what can it help you understand? What can you discover about yourself?

Leave your tips and tricks for film analysis in the comments.

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Celebrate Your Silly Comedy Shorts With Show&Tell's 10th Anniversary

We chat with show&tell co-founder sethward about their backyard comedy spectacular..

Looking for the hippest place in town to premier your comedy short film, pilot, sketch, etcetera, etcetera? Well, oh boy, do we have a place for you in a special magical backyard.

The festival in question vaguely mentioned in that last sentence you just read is called Show&Tell: Screening Spectacular.

Started by comic actors Sethward and Kyle Helf, Show&Tell is a comedy filmmakers' haven to premier their comedy projects to a community of other filmmakers and fans alike. The spirit of Show&Tell—a monthly outing—is extremely filmmaker friendly, encouraging artists to showcase their silliest, weirdest stuff. It's always a great time, and, considering it's celebrating it's 10th B-day today, extremely successful.

The main talent behind the fest is Sethward—an extremely funny, talented filmmaker most widely known for his absurdist animal auditions on America's Got Talent (very much worth your time if you aren't familiar). He was kind enough to chat with us about the history of Show&Tell, as well as comedy and filmmaker-forward ethos.

Check out our chat below, and check out their Instagram to stay up-to-date on their screenings if you want to submit or just come hang and watch some amazing comedy. You might even get to meet their super cool mascot Shodent the Rodent...

P.S. if you're free Saturday, August 24, stop by the Show&Tell 10th anniversary awards ceremony. Details below!

Also, if you can't make the screenings, we're happy to announce we'll be sharing shorts from Show&Tell shows starting Tuesday. Buckle up!

Editor's note: the following quotes from Sethward are edited for length and clarity.

So what is Show&Tell, Huh?

"Show&Tell [Screening Spectacular] started in 2014 when Kyle [Helf and I] were discussing this concept of showing your art and your films to people, but not having a place that we felt like it was open for us to put up whatever. There were a couple of screenings in LA at that time that were incredibly popular for indie filmmakers and creatives. We do comedy shorts, so that's a very specific type of filmmaker.

As comedy filmmakers, we make sketches, short films, commercials—we make every kind of video. We sometimes screen specs, things that never get picked up. It's a very wide range of media, but then also very small because the genre is consistently comedy.

It was hard to find a screening option for straight comedy filmmaking. There was Channel 101, but that was very specifically pilots. I didn't always want to make a five minute pilot. There were other screenings [that would always ask], "what's a sketches?" There wasn't really good place to screen sketches. Film festivals don't want you to put up your internet videos. There wasn't really a place that we felt like we could gather people and show [comedy videos] in that community and fellowship—what are you up to? What are we up to? Kyle and I missed that from college.

We had essentially taken a show that was on the TV channel that the school was in charge of called TV 32. It was like a broadcast-cable thing. We picked up, there's a show called the Ram Gum Show, and we were playing with that concept. When we finished an episode that we really liked there was no input. There's no congratulations, there's no constructive criticism. There was nothing.

So when we were at school we started having these release parties and we would try to gather a lot of people. By the time it was our senior year, we'd pack out the auditorium and we would screen all of our sketches. It was a huge to-do, and it was so fun, and we were like, how do we do that in the real world? It's low stakes because it's just your friends, it's your crew. We want to have these little premier parties for your smaller projects. And some of them are bigger projects you've spent years working on, but you have nowhere to release.

So we started doing Show&Tell and it felt there was a larger community of people. There's something more that we can celebrate from finishing a project and sharing it. Now for the past 10 years we've been gathering together. You've finished that project that you said it was going to be so hard to finish and you did it. I can't believe you finished it. It's amazing. And I love it. It's one of my favorite things to do every month."

How to Submit to Show&Tell

Lively audience at Show&Tell (including Santa Claus)

Courtesy of Sethward

"Literally anyone can submit. We have a form on our website where it's just a simple Google Doc where you send in an unlisted link. We had to set up a parameter for Show&Tell that's what are you up to now? What have you just finished recently? And it is comedy. So our three rules are that you have to be there to present your video.

So we don't screen anything that has the creators living in another country or another town, and it's got to be comedy and it can't be published yet. So it's this environment that I just finished this, I'm about to release it into the world. What are your thoughts? What do you guys think? And it gives you the opportunity to maybe analyze the audience response, change a few things, or leave it the same or add some things. It's an amazing place for people to get input afterwards. We hang out and talk about each other's stuff, what we've been going on.

The curation process has gotten much more difficult over the years because of more people knowing about it. And friends, I mean, when we were in the backyard in the beginning it was like, I'm begging people, please don't put it online yet. Put it on Show&Tell first.

At this point, we're having to be a bit more selective in what we put in."

Show&Tell logo

"I'm a big deadline guy, so if I don't have a hard deadline, then I don't do nothing—not finishing it. Show&Tell was this hard deadline that I better have something to show these people in my backyard in a few days. It forced me to make a video every single month, at least. Some of those Show&Tells—when it was so new and we were excited—I was putting up three to four videos every month.

It's gotten to the point where I haven't made any larger projects. I've never made a feature film, and I kind of blame it on Show&Tell a little bit because by the time I finish a project for Show&Tell, I have to start making a new project for the next month since it's every single month. I don't have this larger arc accomplished.

But I'm figuring that. We play a lot of different stuff. So I could technically cut up every scene of this feature in parts of an episodic journey and play it once a month."

The Art of Collaboration in Absurdist Costuming

Sethward as a Pumpkin man at Show&Tell

"I get into trouble with a lot of my work where I'm covered in slime, or I'm in a costume that's currently trying to kill me, and then I'm in the middle of filming and being like, oh yeah, I need to direct this so that it's what I want, or I need to make sure that the DP is getting the right shots, but I can't move.

Literally yesterday, I'm filming a video that we're going to put up a Show&Tell, but I'm covered in snot, right? I'm a snot genie, and I couldn't move because it was so slippery that if I were to walk over to Nate, who's shooting the film, I would've covered his camera in slime. Secondly, I would've put him in danger by getting slime over the place. So I couldn't really see the monitor. I have to trust.

I call it editor brain where I have been editing for days or I'm stuck on a computer, I'm writing emails and stuff, and then I get out and I have to perform. And you really do have to readjust. You need to center yourself because you get too technical. And so I trust the people that I work with. I try to get people to work with that I trust to help co-direct.

So every project I've ever done is a community effort. There's not at any point in my life where somebody will give a note on set and I'll be like, "excuse you. Stay in your lane. I'm the director here." I would never in a million years. I understand the concept of too many cooks in the kitchen, but I need it. I need more cooks for what I'm making and cooking. Sometimes I literally just need appendages. I'm in a worm costume or something. I literally can't touch stuff.

I've also had amazing help through the years with real costume designers. Every once in a while I'll be blessed by the real costume angels and people come in and give me a hand. But for the most part, all the things that you see falling off of my body because it was poorly made, it's because I did it. And it was usually because I did it right before the camera was rolling."

Sethward's Advice for Comedy Filmmakers

"Specifically, for filmmakers that do comedy, you can't get tied up. And by the way, I'm no person to give advice. I have no status as professional comedy filmmaker. But from my years of doing comedy filmmaking, the biggest lesson that I've ever learned is that you have to put the comedy first.

Specifically when I say comedy, I say the fun and the silliness. And if you can't have fun, at least force the silly because then you will then have fun. And because that's the only thing that matters in comedy, specifically comedy filmmaking, your film can look amazing. It can sound great. You can have an awesome set or a beautiful costume, whatever it is to help support the joke, that's fine. But truly it doesn't matter if it's not obvious to the viewer that you are having the funnest time making it, you're having the silliest moment with your friends.

In my opinion, that's the absolute only thing that matters when you're making a comedy video. That being said, make sure that it comes first. I've failed at this many times where I'm like, I want it to look this way, I want the aesthetic and it needs to be a genre bending, blah, blah, blah.

The point of it is that you're making and creating something with your friends and your community, and I think Show&Tell is a great way to prove that, because it doesn't cost money to submit. It doesn't cost money to come to it. It's very low stakes. We're in a backyard. It's an outdoor screening. The reason why we're getting together is to laugh at the moment that we remembered you having so much fun and getting to relive that vicariously through other people, and being able to relive that by watching that video in a community. That's the whole point of what we're doing,—to share that stupid moment that we have together.

Anyway, I'm a huge advocate for being silly. If you're not being silly or you don't have time to be silly, frankly, I don't have time for you [ laughs ]."

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Get Free high-resolution PDF of How to Write a Screenplay

The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Film Analysis

What this handout is about.

This handout introduces film analysis and and offers strategies and resources for approaching film analysis assignments.

Writing the film analysis essay

Writing a film analysis requires you to consider the composition of the film—the individual parts and choices made that come together to create the finished piece. Film analysis goes beyond the analysis of the film as literature to include camera angles, lighting, set design, sound elements, costume choices, editing, etc. in making an argument. The first step to analyzing the film is to watch it with a plan.

Watching the film

First it’s important to watch the film carefully with a critical eye. Consider why you’ve been assigned to watch a film and write an analysis. How does this activity fit into the course? Why have you been assigned this particular film? What are you looking for in connection to the course content? Let’s practice with this clip from Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo (1958). Here are some tips on how to watch the clip critically, just as you would an entire film:

Give the clip your undivided attention at least once. Pay close attention to details and make observations that might start leading to bigger questions.
Watch the clip a second time. For this viewing, you will want to focus specifically on those elements of film analysis that your class has focused on, so review your course notes. For example, from whose perspective is this clip shot? What choices help convey that perspective? What is the overall tone, theme, or effect of this clip?
Take notes while you watch for the second time. Notes will help you keep track of what you noticed and when, if you include timestamps in your notes. Timestamps are vital for citing scenes from a film!

For more information on watching a film, check out the Learning Center’s handout on watching film analytically . For more resources on researching film, including glossaries of film terms, see UNC Library’s research guide on film & cinema .

Brainstorming ideas

Once you’ve watched the film twice, it’s time to brainstorm some ideas based on your notes. Brainstorming is a major step that helps develop and explore ideas. As you brainstorm, you may want to cluster your ideas around central topics or themes that emerge as you review your notes. Did you ask several questions about color? Were you curious about repeated images? Perhaps these are directions you can pursue.

If you’re writing an argumentative essay, you can use the connections that you develop while brainstorming to draft a thesis statement . Consider the assignment and prompt when formulating a thesis, as well as what kind of evidence you will present to support your claims. Your evidence could be dialogue, sound edits, cinematography decisions, etc. Much of how you make these decisions will depend on the type of film analysis you are conducting, an important decision covered in the next section.

After brainstorming, you can draft an outline of your film analysis using the same strategies that you would for other writing assignments. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you prepare for this stage of the assignment:

Make sure you understand the prompt and what you are being asked to do. Remember that this is ultimately an assignment, so your thesis should answer what the prompt asks. Check with your professor if you are unsure.
In most cases, the director’s name is used to talk about the film as a whole, for instance, “Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo .” However, some writers may want to include the names of other persons who helped to create the film, including the actors, the cinematographer, and the sound editor, among others.
When describing a sequence in a film, use the literary present. An example could be, “In Vertigo , Hitchcock employs techniques of observation to dramatize the act of detection.”
Finding a screenplay/script of the movie may be helpful and save you time when compiling citations. But keep in mind that there may be differences between the screenplay and the actual product (and these differences might be a topic of discussion!).
Go beyond describing basic film elements by articulating the significance of these elements in support of your particular position. For example, you may have an interpretation of the striking color green in Vertigo , but you would only mention this if it was relevant to your argument. For more help on using evidence effectively, see the section on “using evidence” in our evidence handout .

Also be sure to avoid confusing the terms shot, scene, and sequence. Remember, a shot ends every time the camera cuts; a scene can be composed of several related shots; and a sequence is a set of related scenes.

Different types of film analysis

As you consider your notes, outline, and general thesis about a film, the majority of your assignment will depend on what type of film analysis you are conducting. This section explores some of the different types of film analyses you may have been assigned to write.

Semiotic analysis

Semiotic analysis is the interpretation of signs and symbols, typically involving metaphors and analogies to both inanimate objects and characters within a film. Because symbols have several meanings, writers often need to determine what a particular symbol means in the film and in a broader cultural or historical context.

For instance, a writer could explore the symbolism of the flowers in Vertigo by connecting the images of them falling apart to the vulnerability of the heroine.

Here are a few other questions to consider for this type of analysis:

What objects or images are repeated throughout the film?
How does the director associate a character with small signs, such as certain colors, clothing, food, or language use?
How does a symbol or object relate to other symbols and objects, that is, what is the relationship between the film’s signs?

Many films are rich with symbolism, and it can be easy to get lost in the details. Remember to bring a semiotic analysis back around to answering the question “So what?” in your thesis.

Narrative analysis

Narrative analysis is an examination of the story elements, including narrative structure, character, and plot. This type of analysis considers the entirety of the film and the story it seeks to tell.

For example, you could take the same object from the previous example—the flowers—which meant one thing in a semiotic analysis, and ask instead about their narrative role. That is, you might analyze how Hitchcock introduces the flowers at the beginning of the film in order to return to them later to draw out the completion of the heroine’s character arc.

To create this type of analysis, you could consider questions like:

How does the film correspond to the Three-Act Structure: Act One: Setup; Act Two: Confrontation; and Act Three: Resolution?
What is the plot of the film? How does this plot differ from the narrative, that is, how the story is told? For example, are events presented out of order and to what effect?
Does the plot revolve around one character? Does the plot revolve around multiple characters? How do these characters develop across the film?

When writing a narrative analysis, take care not to spend too time on summarizing at the expense of your argument. See our handout on summarizing for more tips on making summary serve analysis.

Cultural/historical analysis

One of the most common types of analysis is the examination of a film’s relationship to its broader cultural, historical, or theoretical contexts. Whether films intentionally comment on their context or not, they are always a product of the culture or period in which they were created. By placing the film in a particular context, this type of analysis asks how the film models, challenges, or subverts different types of relations, whether historical, social, or even theoretical.

For example, the clip from Vertigo depicts a man observing a woman without her knowing it. You could examine how this aspect of the film addresses a midcentury social concern about observation, such as the sexual policing of women, or a political one, such as Cold War-era McCarthyism.

A few of the many questions you could ask in this vein include:

How does the film comment on, reinforce, or even critique social and political issues at the time it was released, including questions of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality?
How might a biographical understanding of the film’s creators and their historical moment affect the way you view the film?
How might a specific film theory, such as Queer Theory, Structuralist Theory, or Marxist Film Theory, provide a language or set of terms for articulating the attributes of the film?

Take advantage of class resources to explore possible approaches to cultural/historical film analyses, and find out whether you will be expected to do additional research into the film’s context.

Mise-en-scène analysis

A mise-en-scène analysis attends to how the filmmakers have arranged compositional elements in a film and specifically within a scene or even a single shot. This type of analysis organizes the individual elements of a scene to explore how they come together to produce meaning. You may focus on anything that adds meaning to the formal effect produced by a given scene, including: blocking, lighting, design, color, costume, as well as how these attributes work in conjunction with decisions related to sound, cinematography, and editing. For example, in the clip from Vertigo , a mise-en-scène analysis might ask how numerous elements, from lighting to camera angles, work together to present the viewer with the perspective of Jimmy Stewart’s character.

To conduct this type of analysis, you could ask:

What effects are created in a scene, and what is their purpose?
How does this scene represent the theme of the movie?
How does a scene work to express a broader point to the film’s plot?

This detailed approach to analyzing the formal elements of film can help you come up with concrete evidence for more general film analysis assignments.

Reviewing your draft

Once you have a draft, it’s helpful to get feedback on what you’ve written to see if your analysis holds together and you’ve conveyed your point. You may not necessarily need to find someone who has seen the film! Ask a writing coach, roommate, or family member to read over your draft and share key takeaways from what you have written so far.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Aumont, Jacques, and Michel Marie. 1988. L’analyse Des Films . Paris: Nathan.

Media & Design Center. n.d. “Film and Cinema Research.” UNC University Libraries. Last updated February 10, 2021. https://guides.lib.unc.edu/filmresearch .

Oxford Royale Academy. n.d. “7 Ways to Watch Film.” Oxford Royale Academy. Accessed April 2021. https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/7-ways-watch-films-critically/ .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Embarking on the journey of writing a film analysis paper is like exploring the depths of an ocean. Each film is a vast expanse of creative decisions made by the filmmaker, waiting to be discovered and interpreted. As you prepare to write your film analysis, remember that this is not just a film review. You are about to dive deeper, beyond the surface-level enjoyment, to explore the intricate layers of meaning, technique, and artistry that films convey. This guide aims to equip you with the tools and insights needed to analyze films critically and understand their place in film history. By the end of this guide, you'll be able to look at films with a new perspective and articulate your thoughts in a compelling and insightful film analysis paper.

Before you start writing about film, it's essential to understand what film analysis entails. It's more than just stating whether you liked the film or not; it involves a deep dive into how the film conveys its message and emotions. Ask yourself, how does the film use visual storytelling, sound, and narrative techniques to create its unique effect? Consider the film's genre, style, and the creative decisions made by the filmmaker. These elements are crucial in understanding the film's impact and its place in film history.

Start by breaking down the film into its core components. Analyze the narrative structure, character development, and thematic elements. How does the use of these elements contribute to the overall impact of the film? Pay attention to the cinematography, such as the use of lighting, color, and shot composition. These formal aspects of filmmaking are often key to understanding the filmmaker's vision and the film's place in film history.

One of the key aspects of film analysis is considering the intentions behind the filmmaker's creative decisions. What message or experience is the filmmaker trying to convey through the film? Does the film challenge societal norms or push the boundaries of its genre? Understanding the filmmaker's objectives can provide significant insight into the film's deeper meanings and its significance in film history.

Every film exists within a specific cultural and historical context. When analyzing a film, consider its place in film history. How does it compare to other films from the same era or genre? Does it introduce new techniques or themes that have influenced other filmmakers? Understanding the film's historical context can enrich your analysis and provide a more comprehensive view of its significance.

As you delve into writing your film analysis paper, start forming your argument. What is your main contention about the film? Support your argument with specific examples and evidence from the film. Be sure to analyze, not just describe, these elements. Your analysis should reveal new insights about the film and contribute to a deeper understanding of its artistry and meaning.

Your writing should be clear, concise, and insightful. Each sentence should serve your overall argument and help convey your analysis effectively. Avoid overly technical language; instead, focus on expressing your ideas in an accessible yet thoughtful manner. Remember, a good film analysis paper does not just inform but also engages and provokes thought in its readers.

Do: Focus on in-depth analysis, use examples from the film, and provide context.
Don't: Simply summarize the plot, ignore the film's historical context, or write without supporting your arguments with evidence.

Q: How long should a film analysis paper be?
A: The length can vary, but it should be detailed enough to cover all critical aspects of the film while remaining concise and focused.

Q: Can I include personal opinions in my film analysis?
A: Yes, personal opinions can be included, but they should be supported by evidence and analysis of the film's elements.

Writing a film analysis paper is an enriching experience that enhances your understanding and appreciation of cinema. It allows you to engage with a film on a deeper level and explore the complexities of storytelling, technique, and meaning. By following these guidelines and approaching your analysis with curiosity and critical thinking, you will be able to write a film analysis paper that is not only insightful but also a testament to your growth as a film enthusiast and a critical thinker.

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The Writing Place

Resources – how to write a film analysis, introduction to the topic.

While most people watch films for entertainment, those who study film focus on the elements of a film that combine to create the ultimate product. Behind the scenes production editing that occurs before, during, and after filming contribute to the images that people see on screen. A formal analysis of a film asks you to break a film down into its different components and discuss how those pieces work together to create an overall experience. Here is a checklist to help you write a film analysis.

Sections of a Film Analysis with Tips

The introduction to the paper.

Begin by briefly summarizing the film. You should not rehash the entire plot, but instead give the most critical information about the film to the reader. Then, introduce the formal elements that you will be discussing. Finally, your thesis should connect the elements you will discuss to their importance to the film as a whole.

The Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of a film analysis are similar to those found in other analytical essays. Each paragraph should discuss a different small component of the film and how the component serves the entire film. In these paragraphs, you should give concrete examples to support your claims. These examples can include scenes or quotes from the film itself, but you can also include different editing techniques or other behind the scenes work. Connect your examples to the overall film and try to answer the question, “Why does this element ultimately matter for the viewing audience?”

The Conclusion

Briefly summarize what you have talked about in the essay. Be careful not to make generalizations about the film that are not supported by the effects of the specific elements you discussed. In this section, you can discuss the overall importance of the film its historical context or address any lingering questions the film leaves.

Tips for Film Analysis

Understand the vocabulary of filmmaking. Knowing how to talk about elements such as lighting, special effects, framing, focus, and screenwriting are critical to writing a film analysis.
Try to watch the film more than one, if possible. After you decide which element(s) to write about, watch the film again, keeping those ideas in mind.
A film analysis is not the same of a film review. Avoid making pedestrian judgments about the film’s entertainment factor. If you wish to criticize the film, do so by referencing formal elements.
Unless the assignment asks you, do not try to cover every single element the film uses. Try to narrow your focus as much as you can to one or two salient elements.
If you are referring to the actions of a person in the film, refer to the scene using the character’s name. If you are referring the acting itself, use the actor’s real name.

Exercise: Which Sentence Belongs in a Film Analysis?

Sentences and instructions.

When writing a film analysis, many students have to fight the urge to incorporate the components of a film review into their essays. In each of the following exercises, one sentence could be a part of a film analysis, while the other is better suited for a review.

See if you can tell the difference:

1. (a.) In Winter’s Bone , Jennifer Lawrence gives the performance of the decade. (b.) For her role in Winter’s Bone , Jennifer Lawrence had to learn a West Virginia accent in order to portray an authentic character.

2. (a.) The editors of Hocus Pocus use special effects to create magic on screen. (b.) The editors of Hocus Pocus used a green screen to give the appearance that the witches were flying over the city.

3. (a.) The lack of shadows in V for Vendetta gives the viewer the impression that the editors forgot to add in some special effects. (b.) The lack of shadows in V for Vendetta gives the viewer the impression that the scenes are occurring in a futuristic world.

Developed by Ann Bruton, with the help of Alexander Waldman

Adapted F rom:

Dartmouth Writing Program’s “Writing About Film”

Duke University’s Thompson Writing Program “Writing About Film”

Click here to return to the “Writing Place Resources” main page.

Mastering Film Analysis Methods: Secrets of Cinematic Analysis

Published: July 16, 2023
By: Yellowbrick

Unlocking the Secrets of Cinematic Analysis

As a film enthusiast or student, analyzing films is an essential part of the learning process. Film analysis methods help you to break down a film into its various components, study them, and understand how they work together to create a cohesive piece of art. In this article, we will discuss various film analysis methods that you can use to analyze a film and gain a deeper understanding of its structure, themes, and message.

1. Narrative Analysis

Narrative analysis is one of the most common methods of film analysis. It involves breaking down the film’s structure into its various elements, such as plot, character, setting, and theme. By analyzing these elements, you can understand how the story unfolds, the motivations of the characters, and the themes that the film explores.

When analyzing the plot , you should pay attention to the film’s structure, including the beginning, middle, and end. You should also consider the conflict, the climax, and the resolution of the story. By doing this, you can understand how the story is structured and how the filmmaker uses the plot to convey their message.

When analyzing the characters , you should pay attention to their personalities, motivations, and relationships with other characters. You should also consider how the characters change throughout the film and how their actions affect the plot.

When analyzing the setting , you should pay attention to the time and place in which the story takes place. You should also consider how the setting affects the plot and how the filmmaker uses it to create a specific mood or atmosphere.

When analyzing the theme , you should pay attention to the underlying message or messages that the filmmaker is trying to convey. You should also consider how the theme relates to the plot, characters, and setting.

2. Cinematography Analysis

Cinematography analysis involves breaking down the film’s visual elements, such as camera angles, lighting, and color. By analyzing these elements, you can understand how the filmmaker uses them to create a specific mood or atmosphere and to convey their message.

When analyzing camera angles , you should pay attention to the different types of shots, such as close-ups, medium shots, and wide shots. You should also consider the camera movement and how it affects the viewer’s perception of the scene.

When analyzing lighting , you should pay attention to the various lighting techniques used in the film, such as high-key lighting, low-key lighting, and chiaroscuro lighting. You should also consider how the lighting affects the mood and atmosphere of the scene.

When analyzing color , you should pay attention to the different color palettes used in the film. You should also consider how the colors affect the mood and atmosphere of the scene and how they relate to the theme of the film.

3. Sound Analysis

Sound analysis involves breaking down the film’s sound elements, such as dialogue, music, and sound effects. By analyzing these elements, you can understand how the filmmaker uses them to create a specific mood or atmosphere and to convey their message.

When analyzing dialogue , you should pay attention to the different types of dialogue, such as direct dialogue, indirect dialogue, and subtext. You should also consider the tone and inflection of the dialogue and how it affects the mood and atmosphere of the scene.

When analyzing music , you should pay attention to the different types of music used in the film, such as background music, source music, and score. You should also consider how the music affects the mood and atmosphere of the scene and how it relates to the theme of the film.

When analyzing sound effects , you should pay attention to the different types of sound effects used in the film, such as ambient sound, foley sound, and special effects. You should also consider how the sound effects affect the mood and atmosphere of the scene and how they relate to the theme of the film.

Key Takeaways

Film analysis methods are essential for gaining a deeper understanding of a film’s structure, themes, and message.
Narrative analysis involves breaking down the film’s structure into its various elements, such as plot, character, setting, and theme.
Cinematography analysis involves breaking down the film’s visual elements, such as camera angles, lighting, and color.
Sound analysis involves breaking down the film’s sound elements, such as dialogue, music, and sound effects.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the film industry or want to enhance your film analysis skills, consider taking the NYU Film and TV Industry Essentials online course and certificate program offered by Yellowbrick. This program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the film industry and teach you the essential skills needed to succeed in this competitive field.

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Course details

Film analysis and interpretation: a beginner's guide.

This is an In-person course which requires your attendance to the weekly meetings which take place in Oxford.

Classes will take the form of a mini-lecture and presentation leading onto group discussions in pairs and as a class, feeding back ideas and arguments and cementing knowledge laid out in the opening of the session. Sessions will be focused around 3 case-study films, Memento (2000, Christopher Nolan), You Were Never Really Here (2017, Lynne Ramsay) and Mulholland Drive (2001, David Lynch), and relevant secondary examples will be drawn into the lessons according to the topic.

Each week will introduce a new concept, making use of set readings and pertinent scenes and sequences in order to mobilise the topic. Students will be encouraged to conduct their own analyses and to practise getting their arguments and observations in writing in order to reinforce their understanding of the different topics.

Programme details

Courses starts: 22 Jan 2025

Week 1: Introduction - ways of approaching film texts

Week 2: Early Cinema

Week 3: Sequence analysis: meaning and interpretation.

Week 4: Genre and the protagonist

Week 5: Art-cinema narration

Week 6: Memory in film: the viewer as detective.

Week 7: Auteur theory

Week 8: Emotion and affect

Week 9: Written assignments

Week 10: Summary and review

Certification

To complete the course and receive a certificate, you will be required to attend at least 80% of the classes on the course and pass your final assignment. Upon successful completion, you will receive a link to download a University of Oxford digital certificate. Information on how to access this digital certificate will be emailed to you after the end of the course. The certificate will show your name, the course title and the dates of the course you attended. You will be able to download your certificate or share it on social media if you choose to do so.

Description	Costs
Course Fee	£285.00
Take this course for CATS points	£30.00

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, you are a full-time student in the UK or a student on a low income, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:

Concessionary fees for short courses

Dr Neil McCartney

Dr Neil McCartney is currently based in Oxford as an independent Film Studies lecturer and researcher and has taught courses at the Department since 2011. Topics in addition to this module have included, The Films of Orson Welles, Self-identity in Cinema, and Reading the Screen: Case Studies in Film Theory for Beginners. He has delivered modules at Oxford Brookes University covering the history of cinema technology, the British film industry, and screen industries. He currently delivers Film Studies courses at St Clare's International College and Activate Learning College.

He obtained his PhD in Film Studies from the University of Kent under the supervision of Prof. Murray Smith. His doctoral thesis analysed unconventional character portrayals in film narratives within the wider context of psychological and philosophical theories of self-identity. He is particularly interested the relationship between real-world selves and fiction film characters, and specifically the cognitive dissonance generated by films which display a disruption to conventional cinematic norms relating to character portrayal and development. His research is broadly aligned with the cognitivist approach and his other areas of interest include film-as-philosophy, the portrayal of memory and subjectivity in fiction film, and avant-garde deviations from conventional narrative trajectories and continuity of characters.

Course aims

Course aim: To introduce key concepts of critical film theory so that students can confidently analyse a film or sequence of a film within a properly understood theoretical context or school of thinking.

Course objectives:

To give students a basic understanding of certain key principles of film theory.
To encourage meaningful debate and original critical thinking about the moving image.
To enable students to deconstruct film texts and articulate their own insights and observations.

Teaching methods

Lecture presentation followed by seminar-style discussion and group analysis. Set texts will be viewed both during and in advance of each class, and key sequences relating to the weekly topic will be viewed during the class.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will be expected to:

- have a good understanding of the necessary language and critical thinking and observational skills needed to carry out a detailed sequence analysis.

- gain an understanding of how critical film theory has evolved and be able to contextualise particular films when studying them.

- participate in worthwhile discussion within the class so that ideas are shared and so that a piece of written criticism can be produced.

Assessment methods

One short and one long written piece of work approximating 1,500 words in total.

Coursework is an integral part of all weekly classes and everyone enrolled will be expected to do coursework in order to benefit fully from the course. Only those who have registered for credit will be awarded CATS points for completing work the required standard.

Students must submit a completed Declaration of Authorship form at the end of term when submitting your final piece of work. CATS points cannot be awarded without the aforementioned form - Declaration of Authorship form

Application

To earn credit (CATS points) for your course you will need to register and pay an additional £30 fee per course. You can do this by ticking the relevant box at the bottom of the enrolment form or when enrolling online.

Please use the 'Book' or 'Apply' button on this page. Alternatively, please complete an Enrolment Form (Word) or Enrolment Form (Pdf)

Level and demands

The Department's Weekly Classes are taught at FHEQ Level 4, i.e. first year undergraduate level, and you will be expected to engage in a significant amount of private study in preparation for the classes. This may take the form, for instance, of reading and analysing set texts, responding to questions or tasks, or preparing work to present in class.

Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS)

To earn credit (CATS points) you will need to register and pay an additional £30 fee per course. You can do this by ticking the relevant box at the bottom of the enrolment form or when enrolling online. Students who register for CATS points will receive a Record of CATS points on successful completion of their course assessment.

Students who do not register for CATS points during the enrolment process can either register for CATS points prior to the start of their course or retrospectively from the January 1st after the current full academic year has been completed. If you are enrolled on the Certificate of Higher Education you need to indicate this on the enrolment form but there is no additional registration fee.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support

Presentation and evaluation

Here we focus on how to evaluate students' film analysis. We look to organise that analysis practically to ensure that the students profit from the exercises. In addition, the step suggests a way to evaluate and make visible the learning process for the students.

Teaching approaches, presentation and evaluation

When you work with film analysis, the most important thing is to motivate your students to reflect and communicate what they are experiencing. A good structure for film analysis can be to work with the sequence, ‘before, during and after the film’.

Before: Start with an introduction to the film. Talk about the film (director, genre, distinctive style), and possibly prepare the students on the historical and/or social context. Maybe start with a freeze frame, or a selection of the soundtrack: what kind of film and story do the students imagine?

During: Let the students watch the film several times. The first time they may lean back and enjoy it. The second time divide them into small groups or ask them to pair up and look at specific elements such as editing, camera movement and angles, lighting, sound, etc. A third viewing is also useful so that they may spot additional elements. If the film is short, you can also ask the students to close their eyes or turn their backs to the screen in order to just listen. Sometimes it is a good idea to show parts of the film, maybe asking them to predict the ending; how are their responses changing throughout the film?

After: Let the students work with thematics, style (aesthetics) and form in pairs or in groups. You may use various narrative analytical models, but make sure that the analytical work always links content with expression, neither should stand alone.

Timeframe, groups and curriculum

Depending on which student group you’re teaching and where you may be teaching (school, courses, or other places), film analysis is a flexible exercise you can spread over several lessons. However, it is important to cover all the elements of the film analytical process in order to get the most out of the analytical work. Therefore, also consider how you intend to combine your groups when you speak with your students. You will probably want to reconcile the film analysis exercises with your overall teaching and curriculum goals.

When the students are done with film analysis and small production exercises, they can present what they have learned, and the other students can evaluate and give feedback. Make the students aware from the beginning that film analysis and production exercises are to be presented as part of the work and reflection process. The presentation and feedback points listed below will aid the students in their considerations. Summarise the points prior to the group presentations.

Short presentation of film analysis and own production exercises.
Presentation of genre and thematics – what genre is the film, what is it about and what are some of its key ideas?
Present an interpretation and evaluation of the film

Feedback points

Is the analysis substantiated by valid arguments?
Are the filmic elements in the analysis connected to the film’s narrative and theme?
Do you agree with the group’s interpretation of the film?

Make sure the feedback is constructive and grounded in the analysis. Consider if the whole class should give feedback to every group or if the groups should pair up as ‘feedback groups’. If you divide into feedback groups, more students will be heard. Make a final summation in plenary.

How do you create a safe framework for presentations and constructive criticism?
Create 1-2 good evaluation questions, taking inspiration from the above-mentioned feedback points.

Evaluating Learning materials

Here we look at some teaching materials developed by the Danish Film Institute for the animated film ‘Song of the Sea’. It looks at activities for both the thematic and aesthetic work of film analysis – and it shows how to structure a film analytical process. First, you should watch the video, which presents the material, then you should answer the questions in the notepad below. ‘How to’ materials for analysing film come in many different forms and don’t necessarily contain photos, film, or sound clips. It’s important to get your group of learners to work with the film’s narrative, thematics, style (aesthetic) and film form in an integrated way.

Watch the video presenting the Danish Film Institute’s teaching material for Song of the Sea.
Consider what makes quality teaching material: its structure, tasks, questions, level / target group etc.
Suggest a structure (in headlines only) of teaching material, based on your own film example.

Use this notepad feature to write down answers and your thoughts to questions posed throughout this resource.

Use the Tag option to insert the name of this section as a reference before typing your notes. You can Copy , Download or Email yourself these notes for future reference.

Analysis through production

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Movie Analysis Topics and Areas of Films to Evaluate.

Published by Jeremy Webb Modified over 8 years ago

Presentation on theme: "Movie Analysis Topics and Areas of Films to Evaluate."— Presentation transcript:

Aim: To introduce Mise-en-Scene. Mise-en-Scene Pronounced meez ahn sen, it is a French term and originates in theatre. Of all the technical aspects mise-en-scene.

What are the main subject areas of interest in this film and what are the main themes and ideas being addressed? Could it be said that there are certain.

Watching Difficulty lies in the need to remain totally immersed in the experience of the film while also sustaining some level of objectivity and detachment.

“Bad Movies and Good; Good Movies and Great”, Thematic Elements, and Story Structure Review of the Essay’s Important Concepts, Chapter 2 and some of Chapter.

Corrigan, T. (2001). A short guide to writing about film (4 th ed.). New York: Longman.

Writing Film Analysis TIPS!. Integrating Quotes When author says it better than you can.

The Three Ways of Reading a Film

Film Terms & Techniques

Working with Cinematic Techniques Ms. Claytor & Mrs. Sberna.

Viewing Films Actively Written Responses to Motion Pictures Paige Mayhew Oklahoma Writing Project.

Film Study Introduction The Truman Show. Studying a Film Film is an important medium which provide us with understanding of the world around us and human.

Film Editing The joining together of clips of film into a single filmstrip. The cut is a simple edit but there are many other possible ways to transition.

It could be:  An element of characterisation or a relationship between characters  One (or more) of the themes from your play  Make sure that your.

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO VERSION OF PRESENTATION.  Film-quality digital work is usually shot on high-end cameras (rather than, say, a cell phone). However,

3 Aspects of Film Literary Elements Dramatic Elements

Film Techniques. Camera Shots and Movement in Film/Video “First and foremost, a film is visual rather than verbal. Thus, the feelings and ideas communicated.

Unit 2: Drama & Film.

Film and Literature Techniques and Terms. Compare/contrast these two screen shots. What emotions does each cre ate for you? How does the camerawork contribute.

Film Techniques.  Film techniques describe the way meaning is created in film.

Digital Video 101.

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Film Analysis: Example, Format, and Outline + Topics & Prompts

Films are never just films. Instead, they are influential works of art that can evoke a wide range of emotions, spark meaningful conversations, and provide insightful commentary on society and culture. As a student, you may be tasked with writing a film analysis essay, which requires you to delve deeper into the characters and themes. But where do you start?

In this article, our expert team has explored strategies for writing a successful film analysis essay. From prompts for this assignment to an excellent movie analysis example, we’ll provide you with everything you need to craft an insightful film analysis paper.

📽️ Film Analysis Definition

📚 Types of Film Analysis

✍️ How to Write Film Analysis
🎞️ Movie Analysis Prompts
🎬 Top 15 Topics

📝 Film Analysis Example

🍿 More Examples

🔗 References

📽️ what is a film analysis essay.

A film analysis essay is a type of academic writing that critically examines a film, its themes, characters, and techniques used by the filmmaker. This essay aims to analyze the film’s meaning, message, and artistic elements and explain its cultural, social, and historical significance. It typically requires a writer to pay closer attention to aspects such as cinematography, editing, sound, and narrative structure.

Film Analysis vs Film Review

It’s common to confuse a film analysis with a film review, though these are two different types of writing. A film analysis paper focuses on the film’s narrative, sound, editing, and other elements. This essay aims to explore the film’s themes, symbolism , and underlying messages and to provide an in-depth interpretation of the film.

On the other hand, a film review is a brief evaluation of a film that provides the writer’s overall opinion of the movie. It includes the story’s short summary, a description of the acting, direction, and technical aspects, and a recommendation on whether or not the movie is worth watching.

This image shows the difference between film analysis and film review.

Wondering what you should focus on when writing a movie analysis essay? Here are four main types of film analysis. Check them out!

	Focuses on the story and how it is presented in the film, including the plot, characters, and themes. This type of analysis looks at how the story is constructed and how it is conveyed to the audience.
	Examines the symbols, signs, and meanings created through the film’s visuals, such as color, lighting, and . It analyzes how the film’s visual elements interact to create a cohesive message.
	Looks at the cultural, historical, and social context in which the film was made. This type of analysis considers how the film reflects the values, beliefs, and attitudes of its time and place and responds to broader cultural and social trends.
	Studies the visual elements of a film, including the setting, costumes, and actors’ performances, to understand how they contribute to the film’s overall meaning. These are analyzed within a scene or even a single shot.

📋 Film Analysis Format

The movie analysis format follows a typical essay structure, including a title, introduction, thesis statement, body, conclusion, and references.

The most common citation styles used for a film analysis are MLA and Chicago . However, we recommend you consult with your professor for specific guidelines. Remember to cite all dialogue and scene descriptions from the movie to support the analysis. The reference list should include the analyzed film and any external sources mentioned in the essay.

When referring to a specific movie in your paper, you should italicize the film’s name and use the title case. Don’t enclose the title of the movie in quotation marks.

📑 Film Analysis Essay Outline

A compelling film analysis outline is crucial as it helps make the writing process more focused and the content more insightful for the readers. Below, you’ll find the description of the main parts of the movie analysis essay.

Film Analysis Introduction

Many students experience writer’s block because they don’t know how to write an introduction for a film analysis. The truth is that the opening paragraph for a film analysis paper is similar to any other academic essay:

Start with a hook to grab the reader’s attention . For example, it can be a fascinating fact or a thought-provoking question related to the film.
Provide background information about the movie . Introduce the film, including its title, director, and release date. Follow this with a brief summary of the film’s plot and main themes.
End the introduction with an analytical thesis statement . Present the central argument or interpretation that will be explored in the analysis.

Film Analysis Thesis

If you wonder how to write a thesis for a film analysis, we’ve got you! A thesis statement should clearly present your main idea related to the film and provide a roadmap for the rest of the essay. Your thesis should be specific, concise, and focused. In addition, it should be debatable so that others can present a contrasting point of view. Also, make sure it is supported with evidence from the film.

Let’s come up with a film analysis thesis example:

Through a feminist lens, Titanic is a story about Rose’s rebellion against traditional gender roles, showcasing her attempts to assert her autonomy and refusal to conform to societal expectations prevalent in the early 20th century.

Movie Analysis Main Body

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the film that supports your main idea. These aspects include themes, characters, narrative devices , or cinematic techniques. You should also provide evidence from the film to support your analysis, such as quotes, scene descriptions, or specific visual or auditory elements.

Here are two things to avoid in body paragraphs:

Film review . Your analysis should focus on specific movie aspects rather than your opinion of the film.
Excessive plot summary . While it’s important to provide some context for the analysis, a lengthy plot summary can detract you from your main argument and analysis of the film.

Film Analysis Conclusion

In the conclusion of a movie analysis, restate the thesis statement to remind the reader of the main argument. Additionally, summarize the main points from the body to reinforce the key aspects of the film that were discussed. The conclusion should also provide a final thought or reflection on the film, tying together the analysis and presenting your perspective on its overall meaning.

✍️ How to Write a Film Analysis Essay

Writing a film analysis essay can be challenging since it requires a deep understanding of the film, its themes, and its characters. However, with the right approach, you can create a compelling analysis that offers insight into the film’s meaning and impact. To help you, we’ve prepared a small guide.

1. Understand the Prompt

When approaching a film analysis essay, it is crucial to understand the prompt provided by your professor. For example, suppose your professor asks you to analyze the film from the perspective of Marxist criticism or psychoanalytic film theory . In that case, it is essential to familiarize yourself with these approaches. This may involve studying these theories and identifying how they can be applied to the film.

If your professor did not provide specific guidelines, you will need to choose a film yourself and decide on the aspect you will explore. Whether it is the film’s themes, characters, cinematography, or social context, having a clear focus will help guide your analysis.

2. Watch the Film & Take Notes

Keep your assignment prompt in mind when watching the film for your analysis. For example, if you are analyzing the film from a feminist perspective, you should pay attention to the portrayal of female characters, power dynamics , and gender roles within the film.

As you watch the movie, take notes on key moments, dialogues, and scenes relevant to your analysis. Additionally, keeping track of the timecodes of important scenes can be beneficial, as it allows you to quickly revisit specific moments in the film for further analysis.

3. Develop a Thesis and an Outline

Next, develop a thesis statement for your movie analysis. Identify the central argument or perspective you want to convey about the film. For example, you can focus on the film’s themes, characters, plot, cinematography, or other outstanding aspects. Your thesis statement should clearly present your stance and provide a preview of the points you will discuss in your analysis.

Having created a thesis, you can move on to the outline for an analysis. Write down all the arguments that can support your thesis, logically organize them, and then look for the supporting evidence in the movie.

4. Write Your Movie Analysis

When writing a film analysis paper, try to offer fresh and original ideas on the film that go beyond surface-level observations. If you need some inspiration, have a look at these thought-provoking questions:

How does the movie evoke emotional responses from the audience through sound, editing, character development , and camera work?
Is the movie’s setting portrayed in a realistic or stylized manner? What atmosphere or mood does the setting convey to the audience?
How does the lighting in the movie highlight certain aspects? How does the lighting impact the audience’s perception of the movie’s characters, spaces, or overall mood?
What role does the music play in the movie? How does it create specific emotional effects for the audience?
What underlying values or messages does the movie convey? How are these values communicated to the audience?

5. Revise and Proofread

To revise and proofread a film analysis essay, review the content for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ensure the paper flows logically and each paragraph contributes to the overall analysis. Remember to double-check that you haven’t missed any in-text citations and have enough evidence and examples from the movie to support your arguments.

Consider seeking feedback from a peer or instructor to get an outside perspective on the essay. Another reader can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

🎞️ Movie Analysis: Sample Prompts

Now that we’ve covered the essential aspects of a film analysis template, it’s time to choose a topic. Here are some prompts to help you select a film for your analysis.

Metropolis film analysis essay . When analyzing this movie, you can explore the themes of technology and society or the portrayal of class struggle. You can also focus on symbolism, visual effects, and the influence of German expressionism on the film’s aesthetic.
The Godfather film analysis essay . An epic crime film, The Godfather , allows you to analyze the themes of power and corruption, the portrayal of family dynamics, and the influence of Italian neorealism on the film’s aesthetic. You can also examine the movie’s historical context and impact on future crime dramas.
Psycho film analysis essay . Consider exploring the themes of identity and duality, the use of suspense and tension in storytelling, or the portrayal of mental illness. You can also explore the impact of this movie on the horror genre.
Forrest Gump film analysis essay . If you decide to analyze the Forrest Gump movie, you can focus on the portrayal of historical events. You might also examine the use of nostalgia in storytelling, the character development of the protagonist, and the film’s impact on popular culture and American identity.
The Great Gatsby film analysis essay . The Great Gatsby is a historical drama film that allows you to analyze the themes of the American Dream, wealth, and class. You can also explore the portrayal of the 1920s Jazz Age and the symbolism of the green light.
Persepolis film analysis essay . In a Persepolis film analysis essay, you can uncover the themes of identity and self-discovery. You might also consider analyzing the portrayal of the Iranian Revolution and its aftermath, the use of animation as a storytelling device, and the film’s influence on the graphic novel genre.

🎬 Top 15 Film Analysis Essay Topics

The use of color symbolism in Vertigo and its impact on the narrative.
The moral ambiguity and human nature in No Country for Old Men .
The portrayal of ethnicity in Gran Torino and its commentary on cultural stereotypes.
The cinematography and visual effects in The Hunger Games and their contribution to the dystopian atmosphere.
The use of silence and sound design in A Quiet Place to immerse the audience.
The disillusionment and existential crisis in The Graduate and its reflection of the societal norms of the 1960s.
The themes of sacrifice and patriotism in Casablanca and their relevance to the historical context of World War II.
The psychological horror in The Shining and its impact on the audience’s experience of fear and tension.
The exploration of existentialism in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind .
Multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators in Rashomon .
The music and soundtrack in Titanic and its contribution to the film’s emotional resonance.
The portrayal of good versus evil in the Harry Potter film series and its impact on understanding morality.
The incorporation of vibrant colors in The Grand Budapest Hotel as a visual motif.
The use of editing techniques to tell a nonlinear narrative in Pulp Fiction .
The function of music and score in enhancing the emotional impact in Schindler’s List .

Check out the Get Out film analysis essay we’ve prepared for college and high school students. We hope this movie analysis essay example will inspire you and help you understand the structure of this assignment better.

Film Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Get Out, released in 2017 and directed by Jordan Peele, is a culturally significant horror film that explores themes of racism, identity, and social commentary. The film follows Chris, a young African-American man, visiting his white girlfriend’s family for the weekend. This essay will analyze how, through its masterful storytelling, clever use of symbolism, and thought-provoking narrative, Get Out reveals the insidious nature of racism in modern America.

Film Analysis Body Paragraphs Example

Throughout the movie, Chris’s character is subject to various types of microaggression and subtle forms of discrimination. These instances highlight the insidious nature of racism, showing how it can exist even in seemingly progressive environments. For example, during Chris’s visit to his white girlfriend’s family, the parents continuously make racially insensitive comments, expressing their admiration for black physical attributes and suggesting a fascination bordering on fetishization. This sheds light on some individuals’ objectification and exotification of black bodies.

Get Out also critiques the performative allyship of white liberals who claim to be accepting and supportive of the black community. It is evident in the character of Rose’s father, who proclaims: “I would have voted for Obama for a third term if I could” (Peele, 2017). However, the film exposes how this apparent acceptance can mask hidden prejudices and manipulation.

Film Analysis Conclusion Example

In conclusion, the film Get Out provides a searing critique of racial discrimination and white supremacy through its compelling narrative, brilliant performances, and skillful direction. By exploring the themes of the insidious nature of racism, fetishization, and performative allyship, Get Out not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on their own biases.

🍿 More Film Analysis Examples

Social Psychology Theories in The Experiment
Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader: George Lukas’s Star Wars Review
Girl, Interrupted : Mental Illness Analysis
Mental Disorders in the Finding Nemo Film
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Film: Interpretive Psychological Analysis
Analysis of Spielberg’s Film Lincoln
Glory – The Drama Movie by Edward Zwick
Inventors in The Men Who Built America Series
Crash Movie: Racism as a Theme
Dances with Wolves Essay – Movie Analysis
Superbad by G. Mottola
Ordinary People Analysis and Maslow Hierarchy of Needs
A Review of the Movie An Inconvenient Truth by Guggenheim
Chaplin’s Modern Times and H.G. Wells’s The Island of Dr. Moreau
Misé-En-Scene and Camera Shots in The King’s Speech
Children’s Sexuality in the Out in the Dark Film
Chinese and American Women in Joy Luck Club Novel and Film
The Film Silver Linings Playbook by Russell
The Role of Music in the Films The Hours and The Third Man
The Social Network : Film Analysis
My Neighbor Totoro : Film by Hayao Miyazaki
Marriage Story Film Directed by Noah Baumbach

❓ Film Analysis Essay: FAQ

Why is film analysis important.

Film analysis allows viewers to go beyond the surface level and delve into the deeper layers of a film’s narrative, themes, and technical aspects. It enables a critical examination that enhances appreciation and understanding of the film’s message, cultural significance, and artistic value. At the same time, writing a movie analysis essay can boost your critical thinking and ability to spot little details.

How to write a movie analysis?

Watch the film multiple times to grasp its key elements.
Take notes on the story, characters, and themes.
Pay attention to the film’s cinematography, editing, sound, message, symbolism, and social context.
Formulate a strong thesis statement that presents your main argument.
Support your claims with evidence from the film.

How to write a critical analysis of a movie?

A critical analysis of a movie involves evaluating its elements, such as plot, themes, characters, and cinematography, and providing an informed opinion on its strengths and weaknesses. To write it, watch the movie attentively, take notes, develop a clear thesis statement, support arguments with evidence, and balance the positive and negative.

How to write a psychological analysis of a movie?

A psychological analysis of a movie examines characters’ motivations, behaviors, and emotional experiences. To write it, analyze the characters’ psychological development, their relationships, and the impact of psychological themes conveyed in the film. Support your analysis with psychological theories and evidence from the movie.

Film Analysis | UNC Writing Center
Psychological Analysis of Films | Steemit
Critical Film Analysis | University of Hawaii
Questions to Ask of Any Film | All American High School Film Festival
Resources – How to Write a Film Analysis | Northwestern
Film Analysis | University of Toronto
Film Writing: Sample Analysis | Purdue Online Writing Lab
Film Analysis Web Site 2.0 | Yale University
Questions for Film Analysis | University of Washington
Film & Media Studies Resources: Types of Film Analysis | Bowling Green State University
Film & Media Studies Resources: Researching a Film | Bowling Green State University
Motion Picture Analysis Worksheet | University of Houston
Reviews vs Film Criticism | The University of Vermont Libraries
Television and Film Analysis Questions | University of Michigan
How to Write About Film: The Movie Review, the Theoretical Essay, and the Critical Essay | University of Colorado

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Film Analysis: Movies and Meaning

Mar 06, 2014

170 likes | 1.1k Views

Film Analysis: Movies and Meaning. Taken from a lecture by Willie Tolliver Bogozan. ELEMENTS OF FILM. THE NARRATIVE- literally, what story is being told? What is implied? (past events, things that we don’t see but assume happens, such as the rape scene in the film version of Streetcar , etc.)

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Film Analysis: Movies and Meaning Taken from a lecture by Willie Tolliver Bogozan

ELEMENTS OF FILM • THE NARRATIVE- literally, what story is being told? What is implied? (past events, things that we don’t see but assume happens, such as the rape scene in the film version of Streetcar, etc.) • THE STYLISTIC SYSTEM- the way in which the film’s plot is presented helps to create meaning. • IDEOLOGY- What beliefs or belief systems are at work in the direction, writing, or style of the film?

NARRATIVE • Time compression- typically a film has two hours or less to convey the meaning, however most plots span several hours, days, or weeks. • Hierarchy of knowledge- the story is also told with different levels of what the audience knows and what each character knows. Do the viewers or the characters know more? Does one character know more than another? • Various levels of meaning- we’ll use The Wizard of Oz to give examples • referential- literal meaning- “The Wizard of Oz is about Dorothy, who . . .” • explicit- “There is no place like home” • implicit- subtext- “The Wizard of Oz is really about the crisis in the development of adolescent girls; do I grow up to be a good or bad witch?” • symptomatic- “The Wizard of Oz is about the importance of family in the 1930’s.”

STYLISTIC ELEMENTS • Consider the controlled environment- everything in a movie is chosen for a reason, so always consider the following elements: • Acting/ casting- for example, Lawrence Fishburn was cast as Othello- why not Chris Rock or Eddie Murphy? • Costumes- why are the characters wearing certain colors, certain styles, over the top outfits or understated ones? (What Dreams May Come has very interesting costume choices) • Scenery- where is the story set? How does weather, time of day, etc. influence the meaning? • Lighting- colors used? shading, shadows, or bright lights? • Props- what is used? how? why?

STYLISTIC ELEMENTS CON’T • Cinematography • How does the frame move? • Focus- what is in the foreground? What is in the background? Are any images blurry, while other images are in focus? • Editing- are there any jump cuts? What is the composition of each frame? • Sound • What music is used? How? When? Why? • Diegetic sound- sound that the characters and audience can hear. • Nondiegetic sound- sound that only the audience can hear.

IDEOLOGY • What value systems are at work here? Consider: • Is the ideology didactic or based around pleasure and senses? • What is accepted? Violence, sex, drugs, etc. (think about the violence in Kill Bill; is it accepted?) • How is the audience manipulated? • Who are the villains? Heroes? • Who are the privileged? • Who are the “fleshed- out” characters?

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Film Analysis 101
1 of 9. Film Analysis 101. How to Become a Movie Critic. 2 of 9. Objectives. By the end of this course, you will be able to: Understand the choices that filmmakers and actors make in order to convey purpose. Analyze differences and similarities between a novel and film adaptation. Evaluate and analyze film choices.
Film Analysis
Analyzing film, like analyzing literature (fiction texts, etc.), is a form of rhetorical analysis—critically analyzing and evaluating discourse, including words, phrases, and images. Having a clear argument and supporting evidence is every bit as critical to film analysis as to other forms of academic writing.
How to Write a Comprehensive Film Analysis: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 3: Analyze the Narrative Structure. One crucial aspect of a film analysis is examining its narrative structure. Identify the beginning, middle, and end of the film. Look for narrative arcs, character development, and the overall story progression. Consider how the narrative structure contributes to the film's themes and message.
Learn Film Analysis With This Cheat Sheet
Key Areas of Film Analysis. Mise-en-Scène: Everything you see within the frame of the shot. This includes: Lighting (how a scene is lit) Setting (location and décor) Props (objects with significance) Costumes and makeup. Actor movement and blocking (how they are positioned and move) Cinematography: The technical choices behind the camera:
Film Analysis
Writing the film analysis essay. Writing a film analysis requires you to consider the composition of the film—the individual parts and choices made that come together to create the finished piece. Film analysis goes beyond the analysis of the film as literature to include camera angles, lighting, set design, sound elements, costume choices ...
Exploring the Depths of Cinema: A Guide to Film Analysis
Delving Deep into Film Analysis: A Comprehensive Guide. Embarking on the journey of writing a film analysis paper is like exploring the depths of an ocean. Each film is a vast expanse of creative decisions made by the filmmaker, waiting to be discovered and interpreted. As you prepare to write your film analysis, remember that this is not just ...
Film Industry Analysis
Contains easy-to-edit graphics such as graphs, maps, tables, timelines and mockups. Includes 500+ icons and Flaticon's extension for customizing your slides. Designed to be used in Google Slides, Canva, and Microsoft PowerPoint. 16:9 widescreen format suitable for all types of screens. Includes information about fonts, colors, and credits of ...
PDF Academic Writing Guide: How to Write a Film Analysis
Academic Writing Guide: How to Write a Film Analysis. • Watch a film with your full attention for the first time. • We are all able to recount plot after watching a movie once; it is more difficult to explain how images and sounds presented make up such a narrative. • So, watch the film again (and again and again)!
Resources
Tips for Film Analysis. Understand the vocabulary of filmmaking. Knowing how to talk about elements such as lighting, special effects, framing, focus, and screenwriting are critical to writing a film analysis. Try to watch the film more than one, if possible. After you decide which element (s) to write about, watch the film again, keeping those ...
Film Analysis
Film Analysis - Free download as Powerpoint Presentation (.ppt), PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or view presentation slides online. This document outlines key elements to consider when analyzing films and their meanings: 1) The narrative - including the explicit story and implicit/implied meanings. 2) The stylistic system - how elements like cinematography, acting, costumes, and editing ...
6.5: Film Analysis
Analyzing film, like analyzing literature (fiction texts, etc.), is a form of rhetorical analysis—critically analyzing and evaluating discourse, including words, phrases, and images. Having a clear argument and supporting evidence is every bit as critical to film analysis as to other forms of academic writing.
Movie Powerpoint Templates and Google Slides Themes
These movie presentation templates are suitable for film enthusiasts, movie critics, and cinema professionals. They can be used for presentations on film analysis, movie reviews, film festivals, or any topic related to the world of movies. Check out our presentation templates for more options.
Mastering Film Analysis Methods: Secrets of Cinematic Analysis
Film analysis methods are essential for gaining a deeper understanding of a film's structure, themes, and message. Narrative analysis involves breaking down the film's structure into its various elements, such as plot, character, setting, and theme. Cinematography analysis involves breaking down the film's visual elements, such as camera ...
Film Analysis and Interpretation: A Beginner's Guide
A beginners course aimed at students with an interest in cinema but with little or no experience of film analysis or critical film theory. The course will introduce a range of concepts to develop skills and knowledge for the deep analysis of film texts. ... Lecture presentation followed by seminar-style discussion and group analysis. Set texts ...
Film Education: A User's Guide
Teaching approaches, presentation and evaluation. When you work with film analysis, the most important thing is to motivate your students to reflect and communicate what they are experiencing. A good structure for film analysis can be to work with the sequence, 'before, during and after the film'. Before: Start with an introduction to the film.
Movie Analysis Topics and Areas of Films to Evaluate.
Download ppt "Movie Analysis Topics and Areas of Films to Evaluate." Similar presentations . Aim: To introduce Mise-en-Scene. Mise-en-Scene Pronounced meez ahn sen, it is a French term and originates in theatre. Of all the technical aspects mise-en-scene. What are the main subject areas of interest in this film and what are the main themes and ...
PPT
Elements of Film We will consider the following elements of film: 1. Angle 2. Focus 3. Shot 4. Montage • Note: Each of these elements have subcategories. 1. Angle • Low angle • High angle. Focus -- communicates information to the audience. Deep focus Racking Focus Shallow focus Soft focus.
Film Analysis: Example, Format, and Outline + Topics & Prompts
The Godfather film analysis essay. An epic crime film, The Godfather, allows you to analyze the themes of power and corruption, the portrayal of family dynamics, and the influence of Italian neorealism on the film's aesthetic. You can also examine the movie's historical context and impact on future crime dramas.
Film Analysis: Movies and Meaning
Film Analysis: Movies and Meaning. An Image/Link below is provided (as is) to download presentation Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author. Download presentation by click this link.
12 Angry Men
12 Angry Men - Film sequence analysis presentation By: Italya Burnett 1:04:28-1:04:58 The camera zooms out creating a long shot (LS) of the room. Some of the jurors are bored, look stressed whlie some of them are hot and sweating from the heat. 1:04:28-1:04:58 The shot cuts to a
Free Movie Google Slides themes and PowerPoint templates
Download the "Movie Awards" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides and start impressing your audience with a creative and original design. Slidesgo templates like this one here offer the possibility to convey a concept, idea or topic in a clear, concise and visual way, by using different graphic resources. ...

50 Film Analysis

What is film analysis, and how does it differ from literary analysis?

Different types of film analysis

Semiotic analysis

Narrative structure analysis

Contextual analysis

Mise-en-scene analysis

Writing the film analysis essay

Works Consulted

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How to Write a Comprehensive Film Analysis: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Step 1: Understand the Film’s Context

Step 2: Watch the Film with a Critical Eye

Step 3: Analyze the Narrative Structure

Step 4: Focus on Cinematography and Visual Elements

Step 5: Evaluate the Acting and Characters

Step 6: Examine the Sound Design and Score

Step 7: Discuss Themes, Messages, and Symbolism

Step 8: Consider the Social and Cultural Impact

Step 9: Provide a Well-Structured and Insightful Review

Q: How long should a comprehensive film analysis be?

Q: Do I need to include spoilers in my analysis?

Q: Shall I include personal opinions in the analysis?

Q: Can I reference other film analysis articles or reviews?

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Learn Film Analysis With This Cheat Sheet

Key Areas of Film Analysis

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Film Analysis

Writing the film analysis essay

Watching the film

Brainstorming ideas

Different types of film analysis

Semiotic analysis

Narrative analysis

Cultural/historical analysis

Mise-en-scène analysis

Reviewing your draft

Works consulted

The Writing Place

Sections of a Film Analysis with Tips

The Body Paragraphs

The Conclusion

Tips for Film Analysis

Exercise: Which Sentence Belongs in a Film Analysis?

Developed by Ann Bruton, with the help of Alexander Waldman

Click here to return to the “Writing Place Resources” main page.

Mastering Film Analysis Methods: Secrets of Cinematic Analysis

Unlocking the Secrets of Cinematic Analysis

1. Narrative Analysis

2. Cinematography Analysis

3. Sound Analysis

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