GCSE Film Studies: Micro analysis

GCSE Film Studies: Micro analysis

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  Textual (Micro) Analysis(20 marks)<br />In class we have looked at a variety of different film sequences and to thought about the way in which the film’s language is used to create certain meanings and how we respond to those meanings. You should now have the analytical tools and terminology needed to succeed. For this piece of coursework you need to show an understanding the ways in which the micro features are used to communicate meaning. For example, lighting and sound (two of the micro features of film language) can combine to create a particular kind of atmosphere. <br />You are required to produce a written analysis of 350 – 750 words which focuses on how one or more of the micro feature(s) (e.g. mise-en-scène, editing, camerawork and sound) create meanings and generate responses in a chosen film sequence from the film you researched for industry (maximum length: 5 minutes).<br />So now you’ve learnt about the ways in which your favourite film was produced, distributed and exhibited, you can now analyse a sequence from the same film paying attention to one on more of the micro features. Your chosen sequence should not be more than 5 minutes long<br />Look at Sarah's analysis below of the ways in which camera framing and camera movement combine to create meaning in the opening sequence of Tsotsi.<br />The bold text indicates the parts where she shows her understanding of key concepts and when she uses the appropriate terminology accurately.<br />The italic text indicates the points where she identifies camera shots or movement and then goes on to examine the meanings/effects that are created by their use.<br />Finally, and this is very important, the underlined text shows the places where Sarah has given her own response to the sequence - how it made her feel and why<br />An analysis of how camerawork is used In the opening sequence of Tsotsi<br />The opening scene is introduced with a game which involves dice. There is a close-up of the dice to symbolise that life is a game of chance as nobody can choose who their parents are and how they end up in life sometimes. There is also a repeated motif of close-ups of hands which could show their working class background and the fact that they are used to doing manual labour. It could also show that we all have the power to change in our hands.<br />Because of the camera, framing we are able to identify the main character who is Tsotsi. He isn't really introduced straight away until a, powerful dose-up that is emphasised by the music kicking in at the same time. The non-diegetic sound-track is parallel to the image of the four boys walking down the street as it highlights their authority. After we've seen them walking down the street there is an establishing shot that lets us know the circumstances they have to live in. It is a high angled shot indicating that the people in the township are small and powerless over their surroundings.<br />After this Tsotsi and his gang go to do a job which seems to be a, regular occurrence. As they arrive at the train platform there's a, panning shot so that we can pick them out of the crowd. At first it is hard to see them as they are blending in so as not to appear suspicious. Another high angled shot, this time looking down on the crowd and the gang, shows a massive orange banner centre frame. It is highly noticeable and attracts our attention straight away as it reads 'HIV affects all of us'. This is a terrible virus that has unfortunately taken its toll on Africa where, if you are lucky enough not to contract the disease, you will more than likely know someone who has.<br />The scene which follows shows the gang scouting for their next victim. A series of medium shots are used to pick out a range of possible victims. However, the shot of a chirpy old man is longer which, instantly tells us that something is going to happen to him. Also he is portrayed as a jolly old man who smiles as he buys a gift from a stall. We have already formed an opinion of him and have warmed to him. An extreme close-up then shows us Tsotsi's eyes which show no expression; this connotes that he has no conscience. He stares intently at the man. It then quickly edits back to the victim and zooms in on an envelope of money; here the audience click on to the fact that Tsotsi is going to steal the money.<br />I think this opening sequence really sets up the story well. We learn a lot about Tsotsi and his gang, their environment and what they are about to do through the camerawork. Very little dialogue is used but a feeling of real tension is built up very quickly and we want to watch on to find out what will happen next.<br />Watch your sequence through at least three times, making notes as you do so. You may want to pause the film at certain points, or rewind if you think you've missed something. Remember your main focus areas but, like Sarah, you may want to mention other elements of film language when they combine to create meaning. Use your notes to write the first draft of your textual analysis essay.<br />