By Rekha Radhakrishnan
In this unit we will be examining numerous films and film techniques, ultimately honing in on a specific genre in order to practice film critique. By critique I don’t mean plot summary or analysis; instead I’m referring to viewing the film holistically (narrative structure, shot composition, mise en scene, acting, color palette, etc.) in order to produce a thoughtful and substantial review of a film. Film writing is a genre that requires close and careful observation, as well as an awareness of the language of film. To that extent we will be reading sample reviews from American critics such as Pauline Kael and Anthony Lane as well as utilizing the guide How to Write About Film in order to familiarize ourselves with the language.
Our method in preparing for the final film review will be the viewing of several films (or parts of films) from different directors, genres, languages, and time periods in order to reflect on the wide variety of techniques available in modern filmmaking. After each screening short summary responses focusing on one aspect or technique will be required. These will help in preparing for the final screening, which will require us to pay close attention to detail so that we can organize notes into a coherent review. Some preliminary questions to think about are: Can films work like texts (with a narrative structure, plots, character arcs, etc.)? Which appeals are persuasive for which audiences (i.e. does a bold color palette suggest children immediately—think of Disney films here)? If a film is like a text how does acting shape or contribute to the narrative? What larger social contexts can we place film within, and how do we see those factors contributing to the narrative? Also, always keep in mind, which techniques you find persuasive for yourself as the viewer—remember one of the major conceits of film reviewing is the notion that you are an educated viewer with discerning taste so, your gut reactions are important!
Part of this assignment will require you to familiarize yourself with terms that are part film writing. Also, for the final assignment you may want to do some outside research on the genre we are examining in order to write a more informed review. Try to read as many different reviews of films from different writers as possible in order to get a sense of how people are writing about film, and which styles you like. A good basic resource might be the Internet Movie Database found at imdb.com, which contains basic writing, directing, and acting credits for films. Like all of the other units this one will require participation and attendance, which is crucial both for in-class screenings and for your one scheduled evening screening. Overall, I want you to enjoy and/or be absorbed by what you see films doing and, to think about how they work as texts fashioning a story through visual, auditory, and narrative appeals.
