All art forms convey meaning, and film is no different. Whereas paintings convey meaning through
shape and colour, and works of literature convey meaning through language, films convey meaning
through various audiovisual elements, such as mise-en-scène, cinematography, editing, and sound,
among others. The purpose of a film analysis paper is to explore how these formal features
contribute to a film’s meaning.
Remember that a film’s formal features are the result of creative decisions made by the filmmaker.
So, when analyzing a particular formal aspect of a film, ask yourself: Why has the filmmaker
constructed the film in this way? What effect might they be trying to elicit in the viewer? In Film
Art: An Introduction, Bordwell, Thompson, and Smith provide examples of some questions that
illustrate how films convey meaning through form:
Does the use of music or noise alter our attitude toward a character? Does the composition of
the shot tend to make us concentrate on a particular detail (4.153, the shot of Anne’s face
in Day of Wrath)? Does the use of camera movement hold off story information to create
suspense, as in the opening of Touch of Evil (pp. 213–215)? Does the use of discontinuous
editing cue us to create thematic comparisons, as in the sequence we analyzed
in October (pp. 259–262)?1
Advertising at the Edge of the Apocalypse (2017) available on Kanopy
Ninth Floor (2015) available on the National Film Board website:
Don't Look Up (2022) available on Netflix or on Blu-ray via UofT library:
Choose one
Analyzing the Formal Features of "Don't Look Up" (2022) in Film Analysis
In the realm of film analysis, the exploration of a film's formal features is crucial to understanding how these elements contribute to its overall meaning and impact on viewers. "Don't Look Up" (2022), available on Netflix, directed by Adam McKay, presents a satirical take on society's response to a global crisis. By delving into the audiovisual elements of mise-en-scène, cinematography, editing, and sound in this film, we can uncover the director's creative decisions and the intended effects on the audience.
Mise-en-Scène
In "Don't Look Up," the mise-en-scène plays a significant role in conveying the film's satirical tone and highlighting societal absurdities. The use of exaggerated set designs, costumes, and props contributes to the dark humor and amplifies the underlying message about humanity's response to impending doom. The contrast between the mundane and the extraordinary in the mise-en-scène serves to critique societal norms and behaviors.
Cinematography
The cinematography in "Don't Look Up" employs various techniques to heighten the film's impact. Wide-angle shots are used to emphasize the scale of the impending disaster and the characters' insignificance in the face of it. Close-up shots of characters' expressions reveal their emotional turmoil and internal conflicts, adding depth to their portrayal. The use of handheld camera movements creates a sense of urgency and chaos, mirroring the escalating tension in the narrative.
Editing
The editing style in "Don't Look Up" plays a pivotal role in pacing and narrative structure. Quick cuts between scenes build momentum and create a sense of immediacy, simulating the frenetic energy surrounding the impending catastrophe. The juxtaposition of humorous moments with grave situations through editing enhances the film's satirical commentary on societal apathy and misplaced priorities.
Sound Design
Sound is a powerful tool in conveying emotions and enhancing storytelling in "Don't Look Up." The film's soundtrack, composed of both original score and popular songs, sets the tone for each scene and underscores the emotional beats of the narrative. The use of silence or ambient noise in key moments creates tension and elicits a visceral response from the audience, heightening the impact of critical scenes.
Conclusion
In conclusion,
"Don't Look Up" utilizes its formal features of mise-en-scène, cinematography, editing, and sound design to deliver a compelling narrative that blends satire with social commentary. Through creative decisions in each aspect of filmmaking, director Adam McKay effectively conveys a thought-provoking message about societal complacency and the consequences of ignoring impending crises. By analyzing these formal elements, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the film's nuanced storytelling and thematic richness.