Looking at Movies 6th ed. Chapters 1-6

Film Terminology and Concepts

• Implicit: Refers to underlying themes and meanings that are not overtly stated in a film's story or presentation.
• Explicit: Clear and straightforward expression found in dialogue or visuals.
• Cinematic Language: Tools and techniques employed by filmmakers to express meaning and set the mood for audiences.

Industry Roles and Responsibilities

• Director: Manages the overall creative vision and staging of a film.
• Film Producer: Handles financial and managerial aspects, ensuring production runs smoothly.
• First Assistant Director: Assists with logistics, managing the shooting script, actor blocking, and on-set coordination.
• Director of Photography (DP): Responsible for the film's visual look through lighting and camera work.
• Camera Operator: Operates the camera to capture the film's imagery.
• Digital Imaging Technician: Manages media capture with a focus on post-production processes.
• Production Sound Mixer: Ensures clarity of recorded dialogue and minimizes unwanted noise during filming.
• Boom Operator: Operates microphone on a boom pole to capture sound without being visible on camera.

Film Production Elements

• Mise-en-scène: Encompasses the visual design elements, including settings, costumes, and props.
• Lighting: Creates visibility for scenes and influences the mood.
• Props Master: Manages all props used in a production.

Filming Techniques and Concepts

• Shot: A continuous piece of film uninterrupted by cuts.
• Editing: The process of assembling shots into a cohesive narrative.
• Fade In/Fade Out: Transitions used to shift from or to black or color fields in film.
• Low Angle Shot: Positioned below the subject, often making them appear more powerful.
• Cutting on Action: Editing technique to smooth transitions by cutting in the midst of movement.

Analysis and Interpretation

• Film Analysis: Using terminology and formal elements to dissect and examine films.
• Formal Analysis: Focuses on thematic and stylistic elements that convey story and mood.

Cultural Aspects

• Cultural Invisibility: The unnoticed cultural biases and attitudes in films that reinforce societal beliefs.
• Realism and Antirealism: Realism seeks to depict life accurately, while antirealism challenges the existence of objects outside of experience.

Communication on Set

• "That's a wrap": Indicates the end of filming for the day.
• "Hot set": A set that should not be disturbed as it is finalized for shooting.
• "Copy/Roger that": Acknowledgement of instructions received.
• "Reset": Instructions to restore a set to its original state after a take.

Set Etiquette

• Maintain professional behavior; no food or beverages allowed on set; respect actors' space by not interrupting.
• Follow proper communication protocols and avoid distractions during filming.

Film Production Equipment

• Gaffer: Chief electrician overseeing lighting setups.
• Grip Department: Trained technicians responsible for lighting and rigging.
• C-Stand: A versatile grip stand for various support purposes on set.
• Craft Services: Provides food and catering for cast and crew.

Production Logistics

• Call Sheet: Daily schedule detailing information for the next shooting day.
• Call Time: The scheduled time for cast and crew to be present and ready for shooting.