1. Detailed analysis of “The Big Sleep”
opening scene:
The first shot shows a large wooden door. The shot is in shallow focus and draws
attention to the a plaque bearing the name “Sternwood”.The door is of heavy woodand
the lettering suggests that its owner is of high class. We see a shadow cast across the
door, half covering the sign bearing the name “Sternwood” This could be use of subtle
foreshadowing to suggest that something dark willhappen within the film concerning
the family. The factthat the character’s shadow is seen first may also suggest to the
audience that the characterthat is approaching is somewhat shady or dark. This is
generally a key characteristic In an “anti-hero”, a flawedcentral hero- a classic element
of film noir. The characters identity is not revealed until shortly after this, this adds to
an air of mystery along with the non-diegetic theme music- (a dramatic strings track).
This element of mystery is also frequently found in films of the film noir genre.
Characters hand reaches to the doorbell and rings.
We see a butler hurry towards the door and open it. We hear the callers voicebut he is
still not in the field of vision. This further adds to the veil of mystery within the film. The
character introduces himself as Marloweand that a General Sternwood wants to see
him. The butler invites him in and as he steps aside, Marlowe is seen in full view forthe
first time. A long shot shows him enter the hall. Deep focusshows Marlowe pass by the
butler whocloses the door behind him and walks past him again asking him to wait a
moment. The interior of the room is very posh. It is obviousfrom the furnishings that
the houses owner is very rich. Again dealings withthe affairs of the upper class are
frequently mentioned in film noir. Marloweinspects his surroundings this action
instantly shows him as an inquisitive character as his fist action is to examine his new
environment.
The camera switches to follow the butler as he leaves the room and a female character
dressed in skimpy sportswear comes down a large woodenstaircase. A long shot allows
the audience to see her wholebody. This is prominent because her revealing clothing
primarily identifies her to the audience as a femme fatale archetype.This, noticing
Marlowe’s presence she holds herself in a very flirtatious, feminine way and almost
walks witha sort of strut and goes overto a table where she busies herself. As she
enters the non-diegetic theme music changes to a slightly higher key.The camera
switches again to Marlowe. It is obvious from the sound and as well as the actor’s
expression that she has drawn his attention, as he looks her up and down, stricken by
her beauty. He addresses her and she turns as if she had been waiting. An eyeline match
is used as she turns and there eyes meet. She proceeds to flirtwith him teasing him
about his height and name. Her behaviour is very forwardand flirtatious. Very much
typicalof the femme fatale character. Another key part of film noir this interaction is
shown with a series of twoshots. Much of Marlow’s dialogue is delivered during an over
the shoulder shot frombehind the young woman the camera is at a slightly low angle.
This could suggest that Marlowe is in controlof her as a male or perhaps that he is the
subject of her interest at this point in time. After teasing him more she pretends to walk
away only to fall backwardsinto his arms. The music peaks again noting the peak of the
sexual tension between the twocharacters and Marlowe’s shock and excitement. The
camera switches again to show the butler.
