Explicit and Implicit Meanings in Film

Study Notes

Explicit Meanings in Film

Explicit meanings are directly communicated through film elements like dialogue, plot, visuals, and sound.
These meanings are easily understood by most viewers.

Implicit Meanings in Film

Implicit meanings are implied and require interpretation.
They are conveyed through symbolism, contrast, juxtaposition, editing, and references to other media or historical events.
These meanings often require viewers to make connections and possess specific knowledge.
Implicit meanings are often more nuanced and less obvious, requiring viewers to actively look for the underlying messages.

Explicit Meanings in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Grief: Expressed through character reactions to T'Challa’s death, including Shuri's initial denial and eventual acceptance.
Cultural Conservation: Demonstrated through contrast between Wakandan and Western grieving traditions (e.g., music, dress, celebration of life versus mourning).
The film's first sequence shows Shuri dealing with the loss of her brother. This moment sets the tone of the film and exhibits the stages of grief.
The initial stages of grief are shown through Shuri's denial to acknowledge her brother's death when her mother brings it up.
The acceptance stage of grief is shown when Shuri, amidst the sadness, takes up the mantle of her brother and changes it into her own.

Implicit Meanings in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Female Power: Implied through women's roles in Wakanda and the absence of depictions directly challenging female power despite the presence of women in power, exemplified when Dora Milaje lead soldiers.
Colonialism: Implied through the depiction of attempts to exploit Wakanda’s resources (Vibranium), and the historical parallels with colonization's legacy on Wakanda's land and people.
This film contrasts what most films tend to show when a woman takes over a position of authority.
The film illustrates the attempted French invasion of Wakanda, referencing historical colonial exploitation of African resources.

Symptomatic Meanings in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Representation of Western societies' historical and ongoing exploitation of resources from other countries, including artifacts and land.
The film presents the struggle over land and power in today’s world.
Positive message of increasing acceptance of diverse cultures.

Description

Explore the distinctions between explicit and implicit meanings in film with a focus on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This quiz delves into how various film elements convey messages about grief and cultural conservation. Learn to identify key symbols and interpretations that enhance your understanding of cinematic storytelling.