The document provides guidance on writing a micro analysis essay focusing on film elements like cinematography, mise-en-scene, sound, editing and performance in a 3-5 minute film sequence. It outlines that the essay should be between 1350-1500 words and analyze 1-3 micro features in the chosen sequence. The introduction should identify the film, sequence and main types of meaning generated. Main paragraphs should systematically evaluate the impact of elements on the audience. Images can be included and the conclusion should summarize meanings and audience responses to the micro elements analyzed.
Maximizing Your Streaming Experience with XCIPTV- Tips for 2024.pdfXtreame HDTV
In today’s digital age, streaming services have become an integral part of our entertainment lives. Among the myriad of options available, XCIPTV stands out as a premier choice for those seeking seamless, high-quality streaming. This comprehensive guide will delve into the features, benefits, and user experience of XCIPTV, illustrating why it is a top contender in the IPTV industry.
Young Tom Selleck: A Journey Through His Early Years and Rise to Stardomgreendigital
Introduction
When one thinks of Hollywood legends, Tom Selleck is a name that comes to mind. Known for his charming smile, rugged good looks. and the iconic mustache that has become synonymous with his persona. Tom Selleck has had a prolific career spanning decades. But, the journey of young Tom Selleck, from his early years to becoming a household name. is a story filled with determination, talent, and a touch of luck. This article delves into young Tom Selleck's life, background, early struggles. and pivotal moments that led to his rise in Hollywood.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Early Life and Background
Family Roots and Childhood
Thomas William Selleck was born in Detroit, Michigan, on January 29, 1945. He was the second of four children in a close-knit family. His father, Robert Dean Selleck, was a real estate investor and executive. while his mother, Martha Selleck, was a homemaker. The Selleck family relocated to Sherman Oaks, California. when Tom was a child, setting the stage for his future in the entertainment industry.
Education and Early Interests
Growing up, young Tom Selleck was an active and athletic child. He attended Grant High School in Van Nuys, California. where he excelled in sports, particularly basketball. His tall and athletic build made him a standout player, and he earned a basketball scholarship to the University of Southern California (U.S.C.). While at U.S.C., Selleck studied business administration. but his interests shifted toward acting.
Discovery of Acting Passion
Tom Selleck's journey into acting was serendipitous. During his time at U.S.C., a drama coach encouraged him to try acting. This nudge led him to join the Hills Playhouse, where he began honing his craft. Transitioning from an aspiring athlete to an actor took time. but young Tom Selleck became drawn to the performance world.
Early Career Struggles
Breaking Into the Industry
The path to stardom was a challenging one for young Tom Selleck. Like many aspiring actors, he faced many rejections and struggled to find steady work. A series of minor roles and guest appearances on television shows marked his early career. In 1965, he debuted on the syndicated show "The Dating Game." which gave him some exposure but did not lead to immediate success.
The Commercial Breakthrough
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Selleck began appearing in television commercials. His rugged good looks and charismatic presence made him a popular brand choice. He starred in advertisements for Pepsi-Cola, Revlon, and Close-Up toothpaste. These commercials provided financial stability and helped him gain visibility in the industry.
Struggling Actor in Hollywood
Despite his success in commercials. breaking into large acting roles remained a challenge for young Tom Selleck. He auditioned and took on small parts in T.V. shows and movies. Some of his early television appearances included roles in popular series like Lancer, The F.B.I., and Bracken's World. But, it would take a
Hollywood Actress - The 250 hottest galleryZsolt Nemeth
Hollywood Actress amazon album eminent worldwide media, female-singer, actresses, alhletina-woman, 250 collection.
Highest and photoreal-print exclusive testament PC collage.
Focused television virtuality crime, novel.
The sheer afterlife of the work is activism-like hollywood-actresses point com.
173 Illustrate, 250 gallery, 154 blog, 120 TV serie logo, 17 TV president logo, 183 active hyperlink.
HD AI face enhancement 384 page plus Bowker ISBN, Congress LLCL or US Copyright.
From the Editor's Desk: 115th Father's day Celebration - When we see Father's day in Hindu context, Nanda Baba is the most vivid figure which comes to the mind. Nanda Baba who was the foster father of Lord Krishna is known to provide love, care and affection to Lord Krishna and Balarama along with his wife Yashoda; Letter’s to the Editor: Mother's Day - Mother is a precious life for their children. Mother is life breath for her children. Mother's lap is the world happiness whose debt can never be paid.
Meet Dinah Mattingly – Larry Bird’s Partner in Life and Loveget joys
Get an intimate look at Dinah Mattingly’s life alongside NBA icon Larry Bird. From their humble beginnings to their life today, discover the love and partnership that have defined their relationship.
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philos...Rodney Thomas Jr
#SSAPhilosophy #DjangoUnchained #DjangoFreeman #ExistentialPhilosophy #Freedom #Identity #Justice #Courage #Rebellion #Transformation
Welcome to SSA Philosophy, your ultimate destination for diving deep into the profound philosophies of iconic characters from video games, movies, and TV shows. In this episode, we explore the powerful journey and existential philosophy of Django Freeman from Quentin Tarantino’s masterful film, "Django Unchained," in our video titled, "From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philosophy of Django Freeman!"
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained – The Philosophy of Django Freeman!
Join me as we delve into the existential philosophy of Django Freeman, uncovering the profound lessons and timeless wisdom his character offers. Through his story, we find inspiration in the power of choice, the quest for justice, and the courage to defy oppression. Django Freeman’s philosophy is a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding drive for freedom and justice.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to SSA Philosophy for more in-depth explorations of the philosophies behind your favorite characters. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest videos. Let’s discover the principles that shape these icons and the profound lessons they offer.
Django Freeman’s story is one of the most compelling narratives of transformation and empowerment in cinema. A former slave turned relentless bounty hunter, Django’s journey is not just a physical liberation but an existential quest for identity, justice, and retribution. This video delves into the core philosophical elements that define Django’s character and the profound choices he makes throughout his journey.
Link to video: https://youtu.be/GszqrXk38qk
Tom Selleck Net Worth: A Comprehensive Analysisgreendigital
Over several decades, Tom Selleck, a name synonymous with charisma. From his iconic role as Thomas Magnum in the television series "Magnum, P.I." to his enduring presence in "Blue Bloods," Selleck has captivated audiences with his versatility and charm. As a result, "Tom Selleck net worth" has become a topic of great interest among fans. and financial enthusiasts alike. This article delves deep into Tom Selleck's wealth, exploring his career, assets, endorsements. and business ventures that contribute to his impressive economic standing.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Early Life and Career Beginnings
The Foundation of Tom Selleck's Wealth
Born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom Selleck grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. His journey towards building a large net worth began with humble origins. , Selleck pursued a business administration degree at the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. But, his interest shifted towards acting. leading him to study at the Hills Playhouse under Milton Katselas.
Minor roles in television and films marked Selleck's early career. He appeared in commercials and took on small parts in T.V. series such as "The Dating Game" and "Lancer." These initial steps, although modest. laid the groundwork for his future success and the growth of Tom Selleck net worth. Breakthrough with "Magnum, P.I."
The Role that Defined Tom Selleck's Career
Tom Selleck's breakthrough came with the role of Thomas Magnum in the CBS television series "Magnum, P.I." (1980-1988). This role made him a household name and boosted his net worth. The series' popularity resulted in Selleck earning large salaries. leading to financial stability and increased recognition in Hollywood.
"Magnum P.I." garnered high ratings and critical acclaim during its run. Selleck's portrayal of the charming and resourceful private investigator resonated with audiences. making him one of the most beloved television actors of the 1980s. The success of "Magnum P.I." played a pivotal role in shaping Tom Selleck net worth, establishing him as a major star.
Film Career and Diversification
Expanding Tom Selleck's Financial Portfolio
While "Magnum, P.I." was a cornerstone of Selleck's career, he did not limit himself to television. He ventured into films, further enhancing Tom Selleck net worth. His filmography includes notable movies such as "Three Men and a Baby" (1987). which became the highest-grossing film of the year, and its sequel, "Three Men and a Little Lady" (1990). These box office successes contributed to his wealth.
Selleck's versatility allowed him to transition between genres. from comedies like "Mr. Baseball" (1992) to westerns such as "Quigley Down Under" (1990). This diversification showcased his acting range. and provided many income streams, reinforcing Tom Selleck net worth.
Television Resurgence with "Blue Bloods"
Sustaining Wealth through Consistent Success
In 2010, Tom Selleck began starring as Frank Reagan i
As a film director, I have always been awestruck by the magic of animation. Animation, a medium once considered solely for the amusement of children, has undergone a significant transformation over the years. Its evolution from a rudimentary form of entertainment to a sophisticated form of storytelling has stirred my creativity and expanded my vision, offering limitless possibilities in the realm of cinematic storytelling.
Skeem Saam in June 2024 available on ForumIsaac More
Monday, June 3, 2024 - Episode 241: Sergeant Rathebe nabs a top scammer in Turfloop. Meikie is furious at her uncle's reaction to the truth about Ntswaki.
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - Episode 242: Babeile uncovers the truth behind Rathebe’s latest actions. Leeto's announcement shocks his employees, and Ntswaki’s ordeal haunts her family.
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - Episode 243: Rathebe blocks Babeile from investigating further. Melita warns Eunice to stay clear of Mr. Kgomo.
Thursday, June 6, 2024 - Episode 244: Tbose surrenders to the police while an intruder meddles in his affairs. Rathebe's secret mission faces a setback.
Friday, June 7, 2024 - Episode 245: Rathebe’s antics reach Kganyago. Tbose dodges a bullet, but a nightmare looms. Mr. Kgomo accuses Melita of witchcraft.
Monday, June 10, 2024 - Episode 246: Ntswaki struggles on her first day back at school. Babeile is stunned by Rathebe’s romance with Bullet Mabuza.
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 - Episode 247: An unexpected turn halts Rathebe’s investigation. The press discovers Mr. Kgomo’s affair with a young employee.
Wednesday, June 12, 2024 - Episode 248: Rathebe chases a criminal, resorting to gunfire. Turf High is rife with tension and transfer threats.
Thursday, June 13, 2024 - Episode 249: Rathebe traps Kganyago. John warns Toby to stop harassing Ntswaki.
Friday, June 14, 2024 - Episode 250: Babeile is cleared to investigate Rathebe. Melita gains Mr. Kgomo’s trust, and Jacobeth devises a financial solution.
Monday, June 17, 2024 - Episode 251: Rathebe feels the pressure as Babeile closes in. Mr. Kgomo and Eunice clash. Jacobeth risks her safety in pursuit of Kganyago.
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Episode 252: Bullet Mabuza retaliates against Jacobeth. Pitsi inadvertently reveals his parents’ plans. Nkosi is shocked by Khwezi’s decision on LJ’s future.
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Episode 253: Jacobeth is ensnared in deceit. Evelyn is stressed over Toby’s case, and Letetswe reveals shocking academic results.
Thursday, June 20, 2024 - Episode 254: Elizabeth learns Jacobeth is in Mpumalanga. Kganyago's past is exposed, and Lehasa discovers his son is in KZN.
Friday, June 21, 2024 - Episode 255: Elizabeth confirms Jacobeth’s dubious activities in Mpumalanga. Rathebe lies about her relationship with Bullet, and Jacobeth faces theft accusations.
Monday, June 24, 2024 - Episode 256: Rathebe spies on Kganyago. Lehasa plans to retrieve his son from KZN, fearing what awaits.
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - Episode 257: MaNtuli fears for Kwaito’s safety in Mpumalanga. Mr. Kgomo and Melita reconcile.
Wednesday, June 26, 2024 - Episode 258: Kganyago makes a bold escape. Elizabeth receives a shocking message from Kwaito. Mrs. Khoza defends her husband against scam accusations.
Thursday, June 27, 2024 - Episode 259: Babeile's skillful arrest changes the game. Tbose and Kwaito face a hostage crisis.
Friday, June 28, 2024 - Episode 260: Two women face the reality of being scammed. Turf is rocked by breaking
Experience the thrill of Progressive Puzzle Adventures, like Scavenger Hunt Games and Escape Room Activities combined Solve Treasure Hunt Puzzles online.
240529_Teleprotection Global Market Report 2024.pdfMadhura TBRC
The teleprotection market size has grown
exponentially in recent years. It will grow from
$21.92 billion in 2023 to $28.11 billion in 2024 at a
compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.2%. The
teleprotection market size is expected to see
exponential growth in the next few years. It will grow
to $70.77 billion in 2028 at a compound annual
growth rate (CAGR) of 26.0%.
Create a Seamless Viewing Experience with Your Own Custom OTT Player.pdfGenny Knight
As the popularity of online streaming continues to rise, the significance of providing outstanding viewing experiences cannot be emphasized enough. Tailored OTT players present a robust solution for service providers aiming to enhance their offerings and engage audiences in a competitive market. Through embracing customization, companies can craft immersive, individualized experiences that effectively hold viewers' attention, entertain them, and encourage repeat usage.
Meet Crazyjamjam - A TikTok Sensation | Blog EternalBlog Eternal
Crazyjamjam, the TikTok star everyone's talking about! Uncover her secrets to success, viral trends, and more in this exclusive feature on Blog Eternal.
Source: https://blogeternal.com/celebrity/crazyjamjam-leaks/
In the vast landscape of cinema, stories have been told, retold, and reimagined in countless ways. At the heart of this narrative evolution lies the concept of a "remake". A successful remake allows us to revisit cherished tales through a fresh lens, often reflecting a different era's perspective or harnessing the power of advanced technology. Yet, the question remains, what makes a remake successful? Today, we will delve deeper into this subject, identifying the key ingredients that contribute to the success of a remake.
Scandal! Teasers June 2024 on etv Forum.co.zaIsaac More
Monday, 3 June 2024
Episode 47
A friend is compelled to expose a manipulative scheme to prevent another from making a grave mistake. In a frantic bid to save Jojo, Phakamile agrees to a meeting that unbeknownst to her, will seal her fate.
Tuesday, 4 June 2024
Episode 48
A mother, with her son's best interests at heart, finds him unready to heed her advice. Motshabi finds herself in an unmanageable situation, sinking fast like in quicksand.
Wednesday, 5 June 2024
Episode 49
A woman fabricates a diabolical lie to cover up an indiscretion. Overwhelmed by guilt, she makes a spontaneous confession that could be devastating to another heart.
Thursday, 6 June 2024
Episode 50
Linda unwittingly discloses damning information. Nhlamulo and Vuvu try to guide their friend towards the right decision.
Friday, 7 June 2024
Episode 51
Jojo's life continues to spiral out of control. Dintle weaves a web of lies to conceal that she is not as successful as everyone believes.
Monday, 10 June 2024
Episode 52
A heated confrontation between lovers leads to a devastating admission of guilt. Dintle's desperation takes a new turn, leaving her with dwindling options.
Tuesday, 11 June 2024
Episode 53
Unable to resort to violence, Taps issues a verbal threat, leaving Mdala unsettled. A sister must explain her life choices to regain her brother's trust.
Wednesday, 12 June 2024
Episode 54
Winnie makes a very troubling discovery. Taps follows through on his threat, leaving a woman reeling. Layla, oblivious to the truth, offers an incentive.
Thursday, 13 June 2024
Episode 55
A nosy relative arrives just in time to thwart a man's fatal decision. Dintle manipulates Khanyi to tug at Mo's heartstrings and get what she wants.
Friday, 14 June 2024
Episode 56
Tlhogi is shocked by Mdala's reaction following the revelation of their indiscretion. Jojo is in disbelief when the punishment for his crime is revealed.
Monday, 17 June 2024
Episode 57
A woman reprimands another to stay in her lane, leading to a damning revelation. A man decides to leave his broken life behind.
Tuesday, 18 June 2024
Episode 58
Nhlamulo learns that due to his actions, his worst fears have come true. Caiphus' extravagant promises to suppliers get him into trouble with Ndu.
Wednesday, 19 June 2024
Episode 59
A woman manages to kill two birds with one stone. Business doom looms over Chillax. A sobering incident makes a woman realize how far she's fallen.
Thursday, 20 June 2024
Episode 60
Taps' offer to help Nhlamulo comes with hidden motives. Caiphus' new ideas for Chillax have MaHilda excited. A blast from the past recognizes Dintle, not for her newfound fame.
Friday, 21 June 2024
Episode 61
Taps is hungry for revenge and finds a rope to hang Mdala with. Chillax's new job opportunity elicits mixed reactions from the public. Roommates' initial meeting starts off on the wrong foot.
Monday, 24 June 2024
Episode 62
Taps seizes new information and recruits someone on the inside. Mary's new job
Panchayat Season 3 - Official Trailer.pdfSuleman Rana
The dearest series "Panchayat" is set to make a victorious return with its third season, and the fervor is discernible. The authority trailer, delivered on May 28, guarantees one more enamoring venture through the country heartland of India.
Jitendra Kumar keeps on sparkling as Abhishek Tripathi, the city-reared engineer who ends up functioning as the secretary of the Panchayat office in the curious town of Phulera. His nuanced depiction of a young fellow exploring the difficulties of country life while endeavoring to adjust to his new environmental factors has earned far and wide recognition.
Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav return as Manju Devi and Brij Bhushan Dubey, separately. Their dynamic science and immaculate acting rejuvenate the hardships of town administration. Gupta's depiction of the town Pradhan with an ever-evolving outlook, matched with Yadav's carefully prepared exhibition, adds profundity and credibility to the story.
New Difficulties and Experiences
The trailer indicates new difficulties anticipating the characters, as Abhishek keeps on wrestling with his part in the town and his yearnings for a superior future. The series has reliably offset humor with social editorial, and Season 3 looks ready to dig much more profound into the intricacies of rustic organization and self-awareness.
Watchers can hope to see a greater amount of the enchanting and particular residents who have become fan top picks. Their connections and the one of a kind cut of-life situations give a reviving and interesting portrayal of provincial India, featuring the two its appeal and its difficulties.
A Mix of Humor and Heart
One of the signs of "Panchayat" is its capacity to mix humor with sincere narrating. The trailer features minutes that guarantee to convey giggles, as well as scenes that pull at the heartstrings. This equilibrium has been a critical calculate the show's prosperity, resounding with crowds across different socioeconomics.
Creation Greatness
The creation quality remaining parts first rate, with the beautiful setting of Phulera town filling in as a scenery that upgrades the narrating. The meticulousness in portraying provincial life, joined with sharp composition and solid exhibitions, guarantees that "Panchayat" keeps on hanging out in the packed web series scene.
Expectation and Delivery
As the delivery date draws near, expectation for "Panchayat" Season 3 is at a record-breaking high. The authority trailer has previously created critical buzz, with fans enthusiastically anticipating the continuation of Abhishek Tripathi's excursion and the new undertakings that lie ahead in Phulera.
All in all, the authority trailer for "Panchayat" Season 3 recommends that watchers are in for another drawing in and engaging ride. Yet again with its charming characters, convincing story, and ideal mix of humor and show, the new season is set to enamor crowds. Write in your schedules and prepare to get back to the endearing universe of "Panchayat."
2. Film Studies
Coursework Guidance
Welling Film & Media
How to write the Micro essay
Once you have completed all of your study and research into the micro
elements, you will be at the stage when you can complete your micro essay.
This should be between 1350 and 1500 words and should focus on a 3 - 5
minute sequence from a film of your own choice. You must, however agree
the film with your teacher first.
You must choose to write about one - three of the micro features:
cinematography. mise-en scene, sound, editing and performance.
2
3. Introduction
Your introduction should end by identifying which film and which
sequence you are going to use in your analysis. You should ‘place’ the
sequence in the film briefly and again briefly outline what happens in your
sequence. Your introduction should show your reader that you understand the
importance of micro elements in the creation of meaning and audience
response. You should summarise the main types of meaning which can
be generated by the micro elements you have chosen to study.
Middle Paragraphs
The main paragraphs within your essay should show a systematic and
thorough evaluation of the impact/effect of your chosen micro elements on
your film’s audience.
You could evaluate one micro element in the first few paragraphs and then
move on to the next micro element, however, your essay will appear more
fluid and fluent if you work systematically through your sequence in the
order it runs, identifying and discussing micro elements as they ‘appear’.
Micro features are used interdependently by filmmakers and you will need to
discuss how your chosen elements work together, as well as separately, to
create meaning and response.
Don’t forget to back-up each of the points you make with a clear example
from your film.
The exam board encourages you to use screen shots in your analysis. This
is to avoid too much description and will allow you to focus on analysing the
effects.
Conclusion
Your conclusion should summarise the meanings and responses you
think your chosen micro elements have generated. You should also
comment on whether or not you think the micro elements you have analysed
have produced meaning and response effectively in your chosen
sequence.
You should also feel free to include images – sketches of key frames or film
stills if this helps with your analysis.
3
4. Micro Analysis
Getting Started
Once you have chosen your film sequence you should watch it several times
making notes on your chosen aspect.
If you have not yet chosen which aspect of film language you are going to
focus on then these screening will help you to do this.
Remember you should focus on a maximum of two aspects of film
language.
The analysis must have detailed references to the text so you may find it
easier to write your notes in three columns to help you do this:
Observation Example Evaluation
Costume is used to show When Jeff enters the This suggests he is
details about how the brightly lit bar, he is alienated from those
characters are feeling dressed in grey where all around him and
of the other characters gives the audience a
are dressed in bright sense of his
colours depressed state of
mind
You should then start to group your ideas and see if you can come up with an
overall reading of the clip:
After looking at the cinematography in the sequence from Jurassic Park it is
obvious that the camerawork is used to make the audience feel the panic that
the characters feel.
From this you should be able to formulate a question or hypothesis. Your
response will focus on answering this question.
The Analysis
Your introduction should outline the film, the director and the sequence that
you are to focus on. You may which to include a short (2-3 sentence)
synopsis of the film (outline of the story).
The main body of the essay should be your analysis. There are two possible
ways of approaching this:
Chronologically Thematically
Whichever you choose, you should stick to it throughout the analysis.
4
5. Exemplar Micro Essay
How does mise-en-scene and cinematography construct meaning and
provoke response in a sequence from The Hours (Stephen Daldry, 2003).
The choices made concerning mise-en-scene and cinematography within a
film are an essential element within the generation of meaning for the film’s
audience. A sense of historical time, mood, character state of mind and even
place within the film’s narrative can all be indicated through cinematography
and mise-en-scene. This essay will analyse how these micro elements
generate meaning and create response in a 7 minute sequence from Stephen
Daldry’s 2003 film The Hours. The focus sequence depicts the character
Laura Brown’s near suicide.
The Hours is an adaptation of the novel of the same name, which itself uses
Virginia Woolf’s modernist novel Mrs Dalloway to inform its narrative. Daldry’s
film focuses on the lives of three women: Virginia Woolf, Laura Brown and
Clarissa Vaughn. Woolf is the writer of the novel, Laura Brown the reader and
Clarissa Vaughn plays a late 20th century version of the character of Mrs
Dalloway from Woolf’s novel. There are three distinct times represented within
the film: the 1920s, 1950s and 1990s and the sequence on which this essay
will focus depicts the first two.
The character of Laura Brown exists in post World War II America. The
hardship of the war years had been replaced by a new affluence and sense of
security for many Americans and Laura’s life, at least on the surface, is one
free from want. Her family lives in a comfortable house, in a comfortable
suburban neighbourhood. She has a devoted husband, one child and is
pregnant with her second. Her days are spent looking after her son, but apart
from this she seems to have few responsibilities. Underneath this happy
surface, however, is Laura’s crushing sense of dissatisfaction with her life and
it is her reading of Woolf’s novel which seems to confirm the pointlessness of
the life she has.
The sequence begins with Laura taking her child to the baby-sitter. As she
drives, the viewer is presented with images of the clean, ordered and
comfortable neighbourhood in which she lives. There is, however, a silence
between mother and son, which indicates both their anxieties. As Laura gets
out of her car at the sitter’s house, she is seen in long shot. Her pregnancy is
clear, as is her difficulty of movement because of it. The audience is made
increasingly aware that the pregnancy is part of the entrapment which Laura
feels. The next shot is a close up of Richard, Laura’s son, who remains still in
the car, rather than getting out. His sense of panic at his mother’s departure is
introduced, and confirmed when he says, “Mommy, I don’t want to do this.”
The close-up shots of Laura and Richard’s strained faces add to the sense of
tension within the relationship and the scene.
5
6. The surface elements of the film at this point contradict the emotional reality of
the scene. Both Laura and Richard are dressed neatly, in clothes which
confirm the decade as the 1950s. The settings in which we see them are
uncluttered and clean, and yet both characters are experiencing life changing
events. The mid-shot of Laura, walking away from leaving her son, allows the
viewer to see the control and order of her clothes, but also the emotional
turmoil of her facial expression and body language. Symbolically, she has
turned her back on her family, yet this is not done out of callousness but
desperation, as her tears confirm. The camera tracks back in front of the
distraught Laura, establishing her distress at her planned abandonment and
the fact that she is the viewer’s focus within the scene. As she reaches the
car, we see Laura in mid-shot waving to her son. She has held back her tears
before turning to wave to him, thus indicating the continued pent up emotion
of her life. Richard’s face, also shot in mid-shot, is serious. The next series of
cuts in this sequence present a series of mid-shots and close-ups of Laura
and her son. She is now the central focus within her frame and is shown, not
looking back, determined to carry out her plan. His mother’s determination is
contrasted with the increasingly close-up shots of Richard, becoming more
and more hysterical as his mother’s car pulls away. The next shot of Richard
within this sequence is a long shot of him standing in the road, looking at the
back of his mother’s car as it departs. He is small, vulnerable and alone within
this frame and as the viewer realises later in the film, this theme,
abandonment, is one of the key causes for the adult Richard’s tendency
towards self-destruction.
The next series of shots within this sequence show Laura driving and Richard
in the living room of his baby-sitter. The mise-en-scene of the sitter’s house
indicates the 1950s setting of Laura’s narrative. The huge flowered wallpaper
of the room combines with the Meccano set Richard is playing with to root the
sequence in this period. Richard is seen building a house with his Meccano.
The parallel shots are of Laura driving increasingly quickly towards her
destination. As a long shot shows her swerving off the freeway, we see a
medium shot of Richard destroying the house he has built; symbolically
indicating the destructive impact that his mother’s actions are having on his
sense of safety and security.
The sequence then moves to Laura’s destination. She has arrived at a hotel;
the mise-en-scene of which is grand, yet anonymous. Laura is then shot in
central frame, over the shoulder of a porter. As the porter moves out of shot,
Laura is left, alone, in a large, stylish, but lifeless room. The colours within the
room are muted creams and beiges. There is little natural light and the
impression is of a room with shadows. The psychological situation of Laura is
extremely apparent. An overhead shot is then used to show Laura lying on the
bed. She looks swamped by the room. So far in the sequence, the viewer has
feared that Laura will do something desperate, but has has no mise-en-scene
related evidence. The next shot, possibly a point of view shot from Laura,
shows her taking out a book and bottles of pills from her bag. The viewer’s
fears are confirmed by the sight of these props and the next shot, a cut away
to the birthday cake she has made for her husband and place on the kitchen
table, suggests the life which she has chosen to leave.
6
7. The camera then pans around Laura lying on the bed, reading Mrs Dalloway.
The viewer hears the voice of Virginia Woolf reading a line from the book -
“Did it matter that she would cease to exist? “. As we hear this line, Laura
pulls up her shirt to reveal her pregnant stomach, indicating to the viewer one
of the sacrifices she will have to make in order to escape her unhappiness.
The next cut is to Virginia Woolf and the camera continues to pan, but in the
opposite direction. This cinematography links the two characters’ states of
mind and quandaries. The mise-en-scene of Woolf's clothes and room locate
the time as the 1920s. Her stillness mirrors that of Laura Brown. The viewer
then hears the thoughts of Woolf, as she states “It is possible to die” and the
next shot shows the impact that this line has on Laura Brown. Laura’s face
and body are partially in shadow. She is inert on the bed, seeming to give
herself up to the prospect of death. As the scene cuts back to Woolf, the
viewer hears her sister Vanessa Bell’s attempts to break her out of her
reverie. It is not Bell’s question which brings Woolf back, however, but the
entry of her daughter, Angelica, into her aunt’s frame. A two shot of Woolf with
Angelica on her lap follows and although the child has perhaps introduced
something positive into Woolf’s thoughts, her aunt’s expression is still quite
disengaged. Neither Virginia Woolf nor Laura Brown can quite step outside of
their own troubled thoughts, even when presented with a child.
Angelica asks her aunt “ What were you thinking about ?”, but the answer to
this question is postponed as the scene cuts back to a point of view shot from
Laura, as she looks at the bottles of pills on the bedside table. The viewer
may, at this point, have been positioned as if they were Laura, yet the scene
still generates a sense of powerlessness to stop events. There are very few
point of view shots from Laura’s perspective, and it is as if the viewer were not
being asked to enter into her mindset, but to solely observe the emotional
turmoil which it causes. An overhead shot then places Laura centrally in the
frame on the hotel bed. She is lying on a white bed cover and is shrouded in
shadow. The connotations of death are clear at this point for the viewer. The
sequence then enters a kind of dreamscape. Laura’s psychological state is
mirrored by the presence of river water filling the hotel room. This mise-en-
scene element clearly links Laura Brown and Virginia Woolf. Laura is engulfed
by her unhappiness and metaphorically feels as if she is drowning. Virginia
Woolf, as we have seen in the opening sequence to this film, did drown
herself in a river in 1941. The water is shown covering Laura Brown and the
audience fears that she has taken the pills and died in her sleep. However,
the cut to Virginia Woolf and the close-up of her suddenly seeming to wake
from her reverie, stops the viewer from having this fear confirmed. Woolf
smiles and says to Angelica, “ I was going to kill my heroine, but I’ve changed
my mind “ and the connections built between Woolf and Laura through the
previous cinematography within this sequence, give the viewer hope for
Laura. The cut back to Laura in mid shot, shows her waking suddenly and
gasping for air, stating “ I can’t “. The camera then tracks slowly back from
Laura as she begins to cry, hold her pregnant stomach and rock. The camera
and the viewer may be able to leave Laura at this point, as she has not
committed suicide, but her body language indicates that her unhappiness is
still very real.
7
8. The cinematography and mise-en-scene used in this sequence have
contributed to the viewer’s increased understanding of the character of Laura
Brown. These micro elements have shown the dissatisfaction which can lie
beneath the American Dream of the post war years. The differences in mise-
en-scene between Laura Brown and Virginia Woolf’s scenes have distanced
them in terms of chronological years, but the cinematography has clearly
shown the connection between the two characters.
Word Count 1791 – oops! Too many!
GRADE DESCRIPTORS
U
E
8