The Language of Film Analysis

In novels, we study how setting, character, and plot development contribute to a novel’s theme. In films, you consider how literary elements and cinematic techniques contribute to a film’s theme.

Seven General Film Topics to Explore:

  1. shots
  2. framing
  3. blocking
  4. lighting
  5. sound
  6. camera movement
  7. transitions

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Your understanding of the key cinematic techniques in each of these general topics in this section is critical to your ability to analyze and to respond personally and critically to film. You will learn the definitions of specific cinematic techniques and consider the effect of those techniques by viewing still images, by watching short film clips, and through studying the Elements of Film Tutorial. 




Time Stamps


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You will see instructions that refer you to a point in time in a video. Remember, this point in time is called a time stamp. For example, you may be asked to “fast forward a media player to the 43:56 mark of the video.” Sometimes the time stamp is placed in brackets like this (43:56). In both of these cases, you would fast forward your media player to 43 minutes and 56 seconds and make careful observations regarding what you see and hear at that point in the video.


Make the Process Meaningful to You

Use the Elements of Film Handout to take notes throughout this section. Handwrite notes or type your observations. Add details where needed. Make the notes you collect on this handout meaningful to you. Keep your completed handout handy as you move to the next sections in the unit. It will serve as a helpful study guide.

Assessment

At the end of this section, you will complete the 4.1 Elements of Film Quiz in which you will apply what you have learned. Remember, you will refer to the content you learn in this section throughout the entire unit.

Choose the format you will use for note-taking.