Film Theory Overview

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'form' refer to in the context of film, according to the excerpt?

  • The budget of the film
  • The actors involved in the film
  • The story being told
  • The way a film is made (correct)

What is the primary focus of formalist film theory?

  • Capturing reality as accurately as possible
  • Analyzing the social impact of films
  • Creating artistic expression through filmmaking techniques (correct)
  • Promoting emotional engagement with the audience

How do formalists view the film screen?

  • A blank canvas for artistic expression (correct)
  • A tool for storytelling
  • A window into another world
  • A reflection of reality

What filmmaking technique is emphasized as central to formalist theory?

<p>Editing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is 'intellectual montage' as described in the excerpt?

<p>A montage that communicates ideas and emotions through editing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the excerpt, what is the primary goal of film, from a realist perspective?

<p>To document reality authentically (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is MOST ACCURATE about the difference between formalist and realist theories?

<p>Formalists prioritize cinematic techniques over content, while realists focus on capturing reality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the metaphor used in the excerpt to represent the film screen?

<p>A canvas for artistic creation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the professor's definition of 'film theory' in this class?

<p>Film theory examines the cinematic medium as a whole, comparing it to other art forms and exploring its potential and limitations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the fundamental tenet of Formalism?

<p>The technical aspects of filmmaking are paramount and heavily influence the film's meaning. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates Sergei Eisenstein's montage from other filmmakers?

<p>Eisenstein's montage utilizes a combination of images and sounds to evoke specific emotions and ideas, unlike other filmmakers who rely mostly on visuals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Dziga Vertov's concept of 'Kino-Eye' refer to?

<p>The potential of cinema to create a new, subjective reality that combines both objective observation and artistic vision. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is 'indexicality' within the context of film theory?

<p>The ability of cinema to create a sense of realism and immediacy through its direct relationship with the world. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Andre Bazin's concept of the 'mummy complex' refer to?

<p>The desire of filmmakers to preserve and immortalize reality through the medium of cinema. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do Andre Bazin and Siegfried Kracauer differ in their perspectives on realism?

<p>Bazin prioritizes the objective representation of reality, while Kracauer emphasizes the subjective experience of individuals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Bela Balazs, what makes the close-up of a face so significant in cinema?

<p>The close-up reveals the inner thoughts and emotions of a character in a way no other part of the body can. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea behind 'photogénie', as described in the text?

<p>The ability of cinema to bring a unique perspective to everyday life. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a 'long take' and a 'montage' in filmmaking?

<p>A long take emphasizes continuity, while a montage emphasizes discontinuity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key role of conflict in Sergei Eisenstein's theory of dialectical montage?

<p>Conflict is the mechanism by which opposing ideas are combined to create new meaning. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the "window" metaphor as it applies to realist filmmaking?

<p>It emphasizes the importance of capturing a realistic perspective to the world. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on Eisenstein's theory, how does the use of editing in dialectical montage function?

<p>It is used to juxtapose opposing images and ideas, creating a dynamic collision. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'ontology' refer to in the text?

<p>The study of existence and being. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'photogénie' based on the text?

<p>A filmmaker using slow-motion to highlight the beauty of a falling raindrop. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between how realists and montage filmmakers view the role of editing?

<p>Realists believe editing should be invisible, while montage filmmakers use editing to express ideas. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between naturalistic acting and method acting, according to the provided text?

<p>Method acting relies heavily on personal experience, while naturalistic acting focuses on external techniques. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Stanislavsky aim to achieve through his "grammar of acting"?

<p>To create a system for actors to achieve a level of realism and authenticity on stage. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Stanislavsky suggest about the actor's presence on stage?

<p>The actor's performance should appear as a continuation of pre-existing events and circumstances. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to James Naremore, what significant shift has occurred in acting since the late 19th century?

<p>A move from emphasizing external physicality to exploring internal psychological motivations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a key element that Stanislavsky sought to develop in actors?

<p>The ability to control emotions and suppress personal feelings. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a characteristic of method acting, as described in the text?

<p>The pursuit of individual authenticity and a sense of lived experience. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinction between method acting and traditional naturalistic acting?

<p>Method acting uses internal techniques, while naturalistic acting focuses on external techniques. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Stanislavsky's main contribution to acting techniques?

<p>He developed a systematic approach to acting that focused on building a solid foundation for authenticity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes a close-up of a face unique, according to Bela Balazs?

<p>It removes the subject from its context, creating a sense of intimacy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Balazs, what is the primary effect of a close-up on the viewer?

<p>A feeling of empathy and connection to the portrayed subject. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Balazs mean when he says, "Good close-ups are lyrical; it is the heart, not the eye, that has perceived them."?

<p>Close-ups are aesthetically pleasing and evoke emotional responses in the viewer. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Balazs relate the concept of close-ups to the idea of fetishism?

<p>By comparing the close-up's power to transform the viewer to the power of a fetish object. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Balazs say about the role of a close-up in relation to human alienation?

<p>Close-ups offer an escape from alienation by immersing the viewer in the world of the subject. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Balazs argues that close-ups can reveal "hidden things". What does this reference?

<p>The hidden emotions and vulnerabilities of the subject. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Balazs, what does the close-up reveal about the subject that cannot be seen from a distance?

<p>The subject's physical imperfections. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the mechanical eye and the human eye differ in their approach to capturing reality?

<p>The mechanical eye can break down time and motion, while the human eye sees a continuous stream of events. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea expressed by the quote "The eye is subordinated to the will of the film-camera and directed by it onto those consecutive moments of action, which in the briefest and clearest way lead the cinema-phrase to the heights or depths of resolution." ?

<p>The camera should be used to create a clear and concise narrative, even if it means manipulating reality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key concept that connects Vertov's vision of film and the concept of indexicality in photography?

<p>Both highlight the unique relationship between the image and the real world it represents. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the term "indexicality" relate to the concept of a photograph as a "fingerprint"?

<p>Both express the idea that the photograph is a direct, unmediated trace of the real world. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between iconic signs and indexical signs, as defined by Peirce?

<p>Iconic signs are based on resemblance, while indexical signs are based on an actual connection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, which of the following would Vertov likely consider a violation of the principles of film?

<p>Using actors to portray characters in a film. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Bazin's understanding of analog photography relate to the concept of indexicality?

<p>They both highlight the connection between the photograph and its real-world subject, as it is a direct trace. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point Bazin emphasizes about analog photography?

<p>It has an uncanny allure because it captures reality directly, without the interference of the artist's hand. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Film Theory Definition

Reflections on the cinematic medium rather than analysis of specific films.

Basic Tenets of Formalism

Focus on a film's form or structure as primary to its meaning.

Sergei Eisenstein

He emphasized montage as a way to create meaning through editing.

Dziga Vertov

Coined 'Kino-Eye', emphasizing the film camera as a new way of seeing.

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Indexicality

The concept that images are direct representations of reality.

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Mummy Complex

André Bazin's idea that photography preserves a moment, freezing life.

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André Bazin vs. Siegfried Kracauer

Both theorists share ideals of realism but differ in their approaches.

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Close-Up Importance

Bela Balazs claims close-ups of faces are more significant than other shots.

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Ontologically defined

Cinema is defined by its unique ability to represent reality over time.

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Realists' view of cinema

Realists perceive the screen as a window that presents realities with spatial and temporal integrity.

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Long take

A shot longer than normal duration that captures events unfolding in time without cutting.

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Photogénie

The transformative quality of filmmaking that enhances our experience of reality.

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Montage

A style of editing that emphasizes discontinuity and relations between shots.

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Dialectical montage

Eisenstein's concept of expressing ideas through conflict and contradiction.

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Conflict in Eisenstein's montage

Eisenstein believed tension between images creates a cinematic idea.

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Collision of ideas

In montage, the clash of two elements produces a new idea or meaning.

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Form in Film

The stylistic choices made by filmmakers that influence how a film is perceived.

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Formalism

An approach that emphasizes artistic style and form over content in filmmaking.

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Film as a Canvas

The idea that the film screen is an artistic space to be seen, not just a window to the world.

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Film Editing

The process that allows filmmakers to manipulate time and space, creating distinct meanings.

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Soviet Montage

A theory of film editing that emphasizes the impact of juxtaposed images to create ideas.

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Intellectual Montage

A form of montage where thoughts and ideas are communicated through editing.

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Expressive Screen

The concept that the film screen communicates emotions and ideas through its visual content.

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Realism in Cinema

An approach focusing on the film's ability to document reality.

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Vertov's belief

Film should avoid theatrical influence and studio settings.

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The mechanical eye

The film-camera captures and directs moments beyond human perception.

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Causal relationship in photography

The link between the photographed object and its image.

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Charles Sanders Peirce

Philosopher who introduced the concept of indexicality in semiotics.

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Iconic signs vs. indexical signs

Iconic signs signify through resemblance; indexical signs through actual connection.

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Mechanical reproduction

Creation of images through analog photography, capturing reality directly.

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Bazin's view on analog photography

Analog photos replicate real objects, like a fingerprint, giving them unique allure.

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Close-Up Definition

A tight framing of a subject's face, removing spatial context.

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Significance of Close-Up

Close-ups highlight human vulnerability and intimacy unlike other shots.

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Fetishism in Close-Ups

Close-ups create a fetishistic view, valuing subjects beyond their use.

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Balazs' Tender Attitude

Bela Balazs describes close-ups as showing a 'tender human attitude'.

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Human Face Discovery

Balazs emphasized the human face as a subjective expression of humanity.

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Lyrical Quality of Close-Ups

Good close-ups evoke emotion like a lyrical poem, not just detail.

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Alienation and Connection

Close-ups counter alienation by enhancing intimacy and connection.

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Exploration of Hidden Things

Close-ups allow contemplation of things typically hidden from view.

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Method acting

A technique emphasizing the use of an actor's personal experiences to create authenticity in performing a character.

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Lee Strasberg

A prominent advocate of method acting who emphasized emotional authenticity and personal experience.

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Constantine Stanislavsky

The founder of a systematic approach to acting, focusing on concentration and imagination.

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Actor's tools

Voice, speech, and body training necessary for effective performance.

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Concentration in acting

The ability to remain focused and create a private reality in public.

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Psychological performance

A shift in acting that emphasizes emotional and psychological depth rather than mere physicality.

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Daniel Day-Lewis

A contemporary actor widely recognized for his use of method acting in films.

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Grammar of acting

Stanislavsky's attempt to create a systematic approach for actors to achieve authenticity.

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Study Notes

Film Theory Definitions

  • Professor defines film theory for the course, emphasizing its broad overview of cinematic analysis. It's about how filmmakers, critics and scholars view cinema, its strengths, and its limitations.

Formalism

  • Formalism prioritizes film form and style over content.
  • Formalists focus on how films are constructed, not what the film is about.
  • Film is treated as a "canvas," a space to manipulate and create meaning rather than merely record reality.
  • Key element of Formalism: Editing techniques.

Realism

  • Realists believe film should replicate reality.
  • Film should portray events and characters as they occur, capturing time and space.
  • Long takes and continuity editing are valued to create a realistic flow within a scene.
  • Realists value the film as a "window" into the world.

Sergei Eisenstein

  • Eisenstein's theory of montage, which views editing as a method to create conflict and ideas, resulting from the collision between shots and creating meaning.
  • He emphasized editing's impact on creating particular emotions.

Dziga Vertov

  • Vertov championed the "kino-glaz" (film-eye) concept.
  • He believed the camera could see the world in ways humans couldn't, capturing reality in a unique and groundbreaking way.
  • His primary concern was that the camera captures reality in a distinct way.

Method Acting

  • Method acting emphasizes a performer’s full immersion into a character's psychology and emotions.
  • Actors try to embody the character deeply to connect with the audience authentically.

Indexicality

  • Indexicality in photography refers to a direct relationship between the image and the object photographed.
  • The image captures a trace of the subject.

Mummy Complex

  • Bazin suggests that humans are motivated to record reality in art forms due to the desire to counteract reality's decay and preservation.

Bela Balazs

  • Balazs argues that close-ups isolate parts of the face or body, detaching them from the world the viewer is familiar with .
  • Emphasises how unique close-ups of faces, detached from everyday context, affect viewers emotionally.

Passion of Joan of Arc

  • Students should be familiar with the film, including its techniques.

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