Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour
January 2, 2020

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).
Directed by Alain Resnais.
Written by Marguerite Duras. 

Hiroshima Mon Amour

 

Story

Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French actress comes from Paris to Japan to make an international movie about peace. The actress meets a Japanese architect and has a short but passionate affair with him. The actress is set to return to France the day after she meets the Japanese man. Although the couple quickly became romantically involved, We learn that they both are both married with children. The movies is basically a conversation between these two lovers who come from very different backgrounds and have to learn as much as they can about each other and about their different cultures. All that happens with the Hiroshima catastrophe in the background of the film. 

A French New Wave Film

Hiroshima Mon Amour obviously belongs to French New Wave. It is directed by Alain Resnais who is a critic in the film magazine Cachier du Cinema, and produced at the time of the new wave. But also the film contains the essence of the new cinematic wave. I will not go over all the characteristics of the movement here, but it would be interesting to draw attention at some of these distinctive characteristics. (If you would like to know about the French New Wave read this post)

Structure: Multi-layered Time

Resnais’ revolutionary work of art in cinema is manifested in Hiroshima Mon Amour through the use of time. It can be described as multi-layered time. Since the beginning of the movie, we learn that the couple are running out of time as the woman is going back to paris. But more significantly, in the first few shots we can also notice that the film is jumping from current events into historical events (the bomb).

By that Resnais broke the classical narrative structure (three act structure: beginning, middle, and end). What is more interesting about this cross cutting between two different times is the director’s philosophy behind it. In an interview in 1999, Resnais said that he believes that “the past and present coexist, but the past shouldn’t be in flashback”. Hiroshima Mon Amour literally translates the saying. The characters were not present when the explosion happened, they were not even in Japan. So these images we see about the horrors of the bomb are, obviously, not seen by any of the characters. They are living in the shadow of past events, not remembering them.

This is a Movie

Another main characteristic of the French New Wave is reflexivity, or drawing the attention of the audience that they are watching a film. This is clear in Hiroshima Mon Amour through many instances. Such as the use of a mix between documentary footage and fiction scenes acted out by actors. And the fact that the main character is an actress filming a movie, this is present heavily in new wave films where characters in the movie are directors or actors to express the filmmaker’s love for cinema.

Casablanca

Hiroshima Mon Amour also references other movies. For example, the couple spent their last hours in a bar called Casablanca which can be seen as an homage to the 1942 movie Casablanca.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

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French New Wave

French New Wave
December 30, 2019

French New Wave

History Background

The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only available movie entertainment was the very few french produced films and German movies. After the war ended, the ban on American movies was lifted in 1946, and the French audience had the opportunity to watch American movies that were previously produced during the war. Not being able to produce movies themselves, French critics began studying the available movies and criticizing films that they considered of low artistic quality. In their search of the art in movies, the critics of the French film magazine “Cahiers du cinéma” started a new wave in cinema. They directed films that had a different style from what was being produced then. These films became the first building stones of a movement in cinema known as the French New Wave or Nouvelle Vague. The founders of this cinematic wave were directors  Louis Malle, Claude Chabrol, François Truffaut, Alain Resnais, and Jean-Luc Godard.

French New Wave

This new wave in cinema formed a unique style that in many ways stood in opposition of Hollywood mainstream cinema. So, what are the characteristics of the French New Wave?

Characteristics of the French New Wave:

  • Themes about modern topics
  • Simple story
  • Innovative style
  • Break the rules of editing
  • Stylish cinematography techniques
  • Reflexivity
  • Manifestation of love for cinema
  • Improvisation in acting
  • Filming in real locations

Now, let’s take a look at these characteristics:

Theme: Events take place in the present day and the movies tackle topics relevant to modern issues (modern of the 1950s) and about modern young people.

Story: The stories of the New Wave films were fairly simple. The directors rejected the complicated plots and replaced it with character driven stories. Godard described the movies of the French New Wave as having a very well written dumb story.

Style: The style of the film is more important than the story. Meaning that HOW the story of the film is told became far more important than ever and even became more important that WHAT the story is. What is meant by the style or “how the movie is told” is that the narration of the films was unique. So the three act structure would not be present in chronological order. The visual language of the film is intended to communicate new ideas and meanings beside the dialogue: Show Don’t Tell

Editing: Films heavily used jump cuts (a cut in the editing the literally jumps from one point in time to another). The editing was used to break the spacial and temporal continuity that was a main foundation of Classic movies.

Stylish Techniques: Unfamiliar camera angles, and unconventional cinematography. Films also broke many filming rules so we can watch many scenes with no establishing shots (many start the scene with a close up), and a dialogue scene with no over-the-shoulder shots or the shot reverse shot technique.

French New Wave

Love of Cinema: New Wave films are known for manifesting the love for the cinema. So in almost all the movies belonging to this era we can find scenes where characters are going to the movies, or expressing their love for movies. Famous movie posters can be regularly seen in the background. Even, many films were about directors making movies.

Reflexivity: The directors of the New Wave made sure to always remind the audience that they are watching a movie. This was achieved through having actors breaking the forth wall (they spoke and looked directly to the camera). The films were filled with references to other movies where characters would talk about older movies, or re-act a scene from another film. The fact that many films were about a director making a movie also reminds the audience that they are watching a film.

Auteur: The directors of the new wave usually wrote and directed their films and expressed their ideologies and philosophies through their films. So they were the authors of their movies or what came to be known as “Camera Stylo” which means that the directors could use their camera the same way authors use their pens. Every director had her/his unique style.

Filming: Movies were shot on real locations, and often using natural light (when possible). The filming crew was minimal (due to low budget) and usually the same crew worked on different movies. The filming was basically independent and freed itself from the studio system.

Acting: The cast was encouraged to improvise.

 

If you are interested in the French New Wave, Here are some of the most influential films belonging to this wave:

List of The Best French New Wave Movies

 

Film Title English Title Year Director
Vivre sa vie My Life to Live 1962 Jean-Luc Godard
Hiroshima Mon Amour Hiroshima My Love 1959 Alain Resnais
A Bout de Souffle Breathless 1960 Jean-Luc Godard
Les Bonnes Femmes The Good Time Girls 1960 Claude Chabrol
Tirez sur le pianiste Shoot the Piano Player 1960 François Truffaut
Lola Lola 1961 Jacques Demy
Adieu Philippine 1962 Jacques Rozier
Le Mépris Contempt 1963 Jean-Luc Godard
Les Quatre Cents Coups The 400 Blows 1959 François Truffaut
Les Amants The Lovers 1958 Louis Malle
Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

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Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps
May 12, 2021

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime. 

I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds. 

If you are stuck on character creation and don’t know how to continue, or even if you have an idea in mind but you don’t know where to start, this article is for you.

I will give you 4 easy steps you can follow to guide your thinking process and create engaging characters!

What is an engaging character?

Whether you think of characters like “The Dude” from The Big Lebowski or Hannibal Lector in The Silence of The Lambs, there’s one thing all great characters have in common…

They captivate us

Whether that is because of their carefree, happy-go-lucky attitude or their cold, sadistic inner world it doesn’t matter.

Even though you may not have much in common with your average super villain, I’m sure at one point or another you found yourself thinking…

“You know, I kinda get where they’re coming from.”

You don’t agree with how they do it but on a base level you understand how they came to their conclusion.

So how do we create characters that demand attention? Here are four quick ways to help develop and create engaging characters.

Step 1 – Name Your Character 

Darth Vader. Ellen Ripley. Donnie Darko. Snake Plissken. 

You want a simple, cool name that isn’t over-the-top but packs a punch. 

There’s lots of different factors to take into account, where your character lives, what they do for a living, their familial background… 

Nobody hires an accountant named Ace Ventura — but a rodeo clown named John Thompson would raise a few eyebrows too.

If you can’t think of anything good, steal something better. 

Here’s a list of five places I’ve found character names in the past. (Don’t judge me.) 

  1. Facebook
  2. Phone Books
  3. Obituaries (Morbid, I know…)
  4. Family Ancestry
  5. College Graduation Programs 

Just mix and match until you find something you like. 

You can also look up name meanings that match the theme of your story.

Maybe it’s a comedy about a woman winning the lottery. 

The name Felicity means “luck or good fortune”, might be a cool easter egg for people paying attention. 

Step 2 – Find Your Character’s Voice

Nobody wants to watch a film where everybody sounds the same. 

A good test to determine whether there is enough diversity in your dialogue is to remove the character names from above the dialogue in a conversation. 

You want to be able to know who is speaking without being told. 

Here’s a quick example from Breaking Bad: 

“Three entire bags of Funyuns?”

“What? Funyuns are awesome.” 

“God.” 

“Hey, more for me.”

“How about something with some protein maybe? Something green huh?”

“Man, I’m not getting no service.”

“How are you even alive?”

This is a very basic scene but you can still pretty much tell which character is which because of the unique way they speak. 

A great book to check out on this subject is: 

How To Write Dazzling Dialogue: The Fastest Way to Improve Any Manuscript

Another thing to keep in mind is that characters should always have a goal and intention in each and every scene. 

No matter how small of a goal it is, dialogue should be driving action and moving the story forward. 

But people don’t always say what they mean so remember not to be too forthright and make use of body language and expression. 

Don’t forget you’re writing these words for an actor, who acts for a living. 

This means most of the time, you don’t need as many words as you think to convey the correct emotion. 

Sometimes silence is the best dialogue. 

Step 3 – Dress Your Character 

Some people dress to express themselves and convey an image — others dress purely for comfort or utility. 

However, an outfit always says something about the person who’s wearing it. 

So when you’re planning your characters think through their wardrobes, where they shop, and what their attitude is towards style. 

Say you see a person who’s wearing a Tom Ford suit, has a bluetooth glued to their ear, and pulls out a gucci wallet. 

You’re probably going to assume different things about them — as opposed to someone wearing neon crocs, cargo pants, and a tie-dye shirt. 

Wardrobe can also contribute to the theme of a film. 

Say a character feels invisible, what better way than to see them walking in a crowd of people all wearing similar outfits? 

Maybe they’re an odd duck, so you make sure their style is in contrast to everyone surrounding them in their scenes.

Even if your character’s wardrobe is generic doesn’t mean that you’re not making a statement. 

So go ahead and think it through before you tell your actors to wear whatever. 

Step 4 – Build Out Their Environment

(This is the last one. You can do it!) 

Lastly, I am going to talk about your character’s environment.

Specifically the ones that they have created themselves. 

Try to picture exactly what your character’s world looks like through their eyes. 
What kind of vehicle do they drive?

Do they hang a specific type of art on their walls?

Maybe there is a favorite meal they like to cook for themselves.

Is their house squeaky clean or disorganized? 

Do they have any keepsakes they keep with them at all times? 

All of these things can have a major influence on your character building.

These can also be reversed to find ways to apply pressure to your character.

They might be a control freak and anytime something is out of order it causes them to panic. 

Or they don’t really have anywhere that feels like home so you surround them with foreign environments where they’re unrelaxed.  

Every single aspect of your story and it’s environment can reflect aspects of your characters.

So before you create another John or Jane Doe remember…

You can do better. 

About the guest writer

My name is Adam Petrey. I’m a filmmaker and the founder of the Film School Sucks newsletter. 

(Even if you went to film school, you can still subscribe. I promise I’m not that mean!)

Every single Tuesday, I send free educational and motivational content to support indie filmmakers along their creative journeys.

Click here to sign up for my always 100% free newsletter

YOU CAN ALSO FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @FILMSCHOOLSUCKS FOR REALLY AWESOME TIPS, TRICKS, AND INFOGRAPHICS.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

read more

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras
November 27, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new and experienced, with their interchangeable lens systems, sophisticated features, and outstanding image quality. The Best DSLR Cameras offer a versatile combination of power, performance, and image quality, making them the go-to choice for photographers of all levels. DSLRs continue to reign supreme for those seeking the ultimate photographic experience, providing a gateway to capturing stunning images and captivating videos.

The world of DSLRs is always evolving as a result of the rapid advancement of technology; new models are released annually with the promise of even higher performance and capabilities. We’ve put up this in-depth guide to help you navigate this ever-changing market and present the top pick for DSLR cameras for 2023.

Best Digital DSLRs in 2023

This guide will provide you with all the details and knowledge you need to make an informed choice, regardless of whether you’re an experienced professional looking to learn about the newest developments in the field or an enthusiastic amateur ready to explore photography. Take off on a photographic exploration as we explore the realm of DSLR cameras, revealing their special attributes, intricate details, and remarkable powers.

Nikon D850

When the Nikon D850 was initially released, we thought it was a pricey camera, but now that prices have dropped, we can’t complain about its amazing 45.7MP quality.

However, one of the greatest DSLRs for filming is the Nikon D850, but for videographers looking for something newer and less expensive, the Nikon D780 might be a better option.

The live view autofocus speeds of the Nikon D850 are relatively pedestrian because it lacks the hybrid on-sensor autofocus technology of the new Nikon D780. However, this isn’t much of a disadvantage for controlled professional photo sessions, and it doesn’t really diminish the D850’s overall appeal as possibly the greatest DSLR ever made for professional photographers. It appeared amazing when it initially arrived.

 

Nikon D850

Check on Amazon
PROS CONS
– High image resolution
– Excellent image quality in low light
– Fast and accurate autofocus system
– Versatile video capabilities
– Durable and weather-sealed construction
– Expensive
– Large and heavy
– Complex menu system

Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

In 2020, Canon announced the EOS-1D X Mark III, a full-frame digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) designed for professional use. With a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, a DIGIC X image processor, and an extended ISO range of 50-819200, it replaces the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II. It can record 5.5K RAW footage and 4K UHD video at 60 frames per second. Together with these capabilities, the EOS-1D X Mark III has a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS connectivity, and a 191-point focusing system with intelligent subject tracking.

It also represented a true video tipping point for Canon, as the company first produced uncropped 4K footage, which had eluded them for a long time.

 

Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

Check on Amazon
PROS CONS
– Exceptional image quality in low light
– Blazing-fast continuous shooting speeds
– Advanced autofocus system with unparalleled tracking capabilities
– Versatile video capabilities
– Built for durability and performance in extreme conditions
– Absence of image stabilization
– Absence of an LCD screen tilt

PENTAX KF APS-C

Offering a blend of image quality, performance, and affordability, the Pentax KF is a weather-sealed DSLR camera that is both versatile and affordable. For photographers looking for a versatile camera that can handle a range of shooting scenarios, it’s an excellent option.

High-resolution imagery and Weather-Resistant Construction

The Pentax KF has a 24.24 effective megapixel AA-filter-less APS-C CMOS sensor, delivering high-quality images with exceptional detail and minimal noise, even in low-light conditions. Its native ISO range of 100 to 102400 further expands its versatility, enabling outstanding image capture in a wide range of lighting environments.

In addition, i is the perfect companion for outdoor photography enthusiasts, boasting a compact, dustproof, and weather-resistant design. Its cold-proof performance, down to 14°F (-10°C), ensures reliable operation even in harsh weather conditions.

 

PENTAX KF APS-C

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Precision Viewfinding, Image Stabilization, and Celestial Tracking

The Pentax KF has an optical viewfinder with a glass pentaprism that offers 0.95 times the magnification and about 100% field of view. Accurate composition and capture are ensured by the rapid and simple confirmation of focus and framing made possible by this big, clear viewfinder.

Moreover, the Pentax KF has an in-body SR (Shake Reduction) system that minimizes image blur from camera shake by compensating for 4.5 shutter steps. This feature is especially helpful when photographing at slow shutter speeds or in low light.

 

PROS CONS
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy sharing of photos and videos
– Affordable price compared to other DSLR cameras in its class
– Optional O-GPS2 GPS unit for automatic tracking of celestial bodies
– Vari-angle touchscreen LCD for versatile viewing and operation
– Autofocus systems may not be as fast and accurate as some competitors
– No 4K video recording
– It is not as well-supported as some other DSLR brands
– The menu system can be complex for new users

What is a DSLR camera?

A digital camera called a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) employs a single lens for both viewing and taking pictures. A mirror reflects the image from the lens onto a sensor, which then converts the light into an electronic signal. The camera’s image processor then processes this signal. DSLR cameras are known for their excellent image quality, versatility, and wide range of features. They are also relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for both amateur and professional photographers.

DSLR cameras have interchangeable lenses, so you may mount various lenses on the camera’s body to create various effects. For instance, you can zoom in on far-off things with a telephoto lens or capture more of a picture with a wide-angle lens.

It also can capture more light and provide better-quality photographs because of its huge sensors. This is especially useful for low-light photography.

DSLR cameras have sophisticated focusing systems that enable them to focus on subjects quickly and precisely. This is crucial for getting clear shots, particularly when taking pictures of moving subjects.

What are the best DSLR cameras in the market?

Even though a lot of manufacturers are currently concentrating all of their efforts on creating the greatest mirrorless cameras, our guide shows that there are still competitive DSLR cameras available. This guide is intended to assist you in finding the perfect DSLR, regardless of your ability and budget. All of the best DSLR cameras available have undergone rigorous testing by us, during which we evaluated handling, battery life, and general performance under real-world circumstances.

 

Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera

The Nikon D3500 DSLR camera is a powerful and easy-to-use camera with a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a native ISO range of 100-25600. The accompanying 4K monitor lets you review your images and videos in stunning detail. The bundle also includes two 64GB ExtremePro SDXC cards for high-speed capture, two EN-EL14a batteries for long-lasting power, Corel software for photo and video editing, a pro tripod, a protective case, and a filter kit for creative effects. This bundle is a great value for beginners and experienced photographers alike.

 

Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera

Check on Amazon
PROS CONS
– Powerful and easy-to-use DSLR camera
– 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor for high-quality images
– Native ISO range of 100-25600 for excellent low-light performance
– 5fps continuous shooting for capturing action shots
– Full HD 1080p video recording at 60fps
– Includes versatile 18-55mm zoom lens
– 4K monitor for reviewing photos and videos
– Two 64GB ExtremePro SDXC cards for high-speed capture
– Two EN-EL14a batteries for long-lasting power
– Corel software for photo and video editing
– Pro tripod for stable shooting
– Protective case for camera safety
– Filter kit for creative effects
– Limited autofocus system compared to some competitors
– No 4K video recording
– It is not as well-supported as some other DSLR brands
– The menu system can be complex for new users

 

Canon DSLR Camera EOS 90D

The Canon EOS 90D is a versatile and powerful DSLR camera that is well-suited for a variety of photography needs. It features a 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 8 image processor, and a native ISO range of 100-25600 (expandable to 50-102400). It can also shoot 10fps continuous shooting and 4K UHD video at 30fps. The camera has a 45-point all-cross-type autofocus system, and it also features Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast and accurate autofocus in live view and video modes. The EOS 90D has a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and it also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing of photos and videos.

 

Canon DSLR Camera EOS 90D

Check on Amazon
PROS CONS
– High-quality images, especially in low light
– Fast and responsive performance
– Wide ISO range for various lighting conditions
– Capture action shots with high-speed continuous shooting
– Stunning cinematic 4K UHD video recording
– Fast, accurate, and wide-area autofocus
– Smooth and precise autofocus for live view and video modes
– Easy viewing, composition, and control with vari-angle touchscreen LCD
– Seamless sharing of photos and videos to smartphones and computers
– Autofocus performance may not be consistent in low light and complex scenes
– No 1080p video recording at 120fps for slow-motion footage
– Complex menu system for new users
– Shorter battery life when using live view or video recording frequently

 

Nikon D780 DSLR Camera

A full-frame DSLR camera that can be used for a range of photography purposes is the Nikon D780 DSLR Camera (Body Only). It has an EXPEED 6 image processor, a 24.5MP FX-format BSI CMOS sensor, and a native ISO range of 100-51200 (expandable to 32-204800). In addition to Phase-Detection Autofocus in Live View for quick and precise autofocus in both live view and video modes, the camera has a 51-point all-cross autofocus system. The D780 can also record 4K UHD footage at 30 frames per second and shoot continuously at 7 frames per second.

The Nikon 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Lens is a flexible zoom lens that is excellent for still photos and videos. With a 24-120mm focal length range, it’s perfect for a range of photography scenarios, such as sports, portraits, and landscapes. Additionally, the lens has vibration mitigation built in to lessen camera shake.

A 64GB memory card, a case, Corel Photo software, two EN-EL 15 batteries, an LED light, and a filter kit are all included in this bundle. Because of this, it represents excellent value for photographers searching for a comprehensive and adaptable photographic package.

 

Nikon D780 DSLR Camera

Check on Amazon
PROS CONS
– Exceptional image quality, especially in low light
– Fast and responsive performance
– Versatile ISO range for various lighting conditions
– Fast, accurate, and wide-area autofocus tracking
– Smooth and precise autofocus for live view and video modes
– Capture action shots with high-speed continuous shooting
– Stunning cinematic 4K UHD video recording
– Versatile zoom lens for stills and video
– Ample storage space
– Protective case
– Editing and enhancing photos with Corel Photo Software
– Long-lasting power with 2 x EN-EL 15 batteries
– Illuminate subjects in low light with LED light
– Creative effects with filter kit
– No 1080p video recording at 120fps for slow-motion footage
– Complex menu system for new users
– Shorter battery life when using live view or video recording frequently

Which image quality is best for DSLR?

The best image quality for DSLR cameras is RAW format. RAW format captures all of the data the camera’s sensor records, so you have more flexibility to edit your photos post-processing. JPEG format is a compressed format that loses some of the sensor’s data, which can result in lower image quality.

If you are serious about photography, we recommend shooting in RAW format. This will give you the most control over your images and will allow you to produce the highest-quality photos possible. However, if you are just starting out or not concerned with having the absolute best image quality, you may be fine shooting in JPEG format.

Do professional photographers use Nikon or Canon?

Both Nikon and Canon are popular brands of professional DSLR cameras, and both are used by a large number of professional photographers. The choice of which brand to use is often a matter of personal preference, as both Nikon and Canon offer a wide range of high-quality cameras and lenses.

Nikon is a well-respected brand in the photography world, known for its high-quality cameras and lenses. Professional photographers who use Nikon often cite its excellent image quality, wide range of lenses, and durable design as reasons for their preference. Nikon cameras are also known for their intuitive controls and user-friendly menus.

Canon is another popular brand of professional DSLR cameras, known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of lenses. Professional photographers who use Canon often cite its ease of use, excellent image quality, and autofocus performance as reasons for their preference. Canon cameras are also known for their compatibility with a wide range of accessories.

Navigating the world of DSLR cameras can be daunting, especially with the vast array of options available. This comprehensive guide has delved into the top-rated DSLR cameras in the market, exploring their features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer seeking an upgrade or a novice embarking on your photographic journey, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to select the DSLR camera that perfectly aligns with your needs and preferences.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

read more

Christmas Gift Idea Filmmakers Will Love

Christmas Gift Idea Filmmakers Will Love
December 11, 2023

Christmas Gift Idea Filmmakers Will Love

Filmmakers are a special breed. They possess a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and storytelling prowess. But finding the perfect Christmas gift idea filmmakers will love can be challenging. Fear not, aspiring Santas! This guide will help you navigate the world of cinematic Christmas cheer and find the perfect present for your favorite film fanatic.

Christmas Gift Ideas for  Filmmakers

We’ve got you covered, from practical tools and gadgets to creative inspiration and unforgettable experiences. Whether your filmmaker is a seasoned professional or just starting out, something on this list will spark their imagination and help them take their filmmaking to the next level.

Selens 5 in 1 60cm Light Reflector

Selens Portable 5-in-1 24-inch (60cm) Round Reflector Collapsible Multi Disc. Made to fit right into your photography projects, this clever gadget gives you the ability to improve your lighting arrangements and turn shadowy spaces into bright canvases.

With its 5-in-1 design, this reflector allows you to select translucent, silver, black, white, or gold panels. Every panel meets a certain illumination requirement:

Gold: Gives your subject a radiant, warm tone.

Silver: Generates a neutral, brilliant light.

Black: Removes undesired shadows and reflections with effectiveness.

White: Produces a soft, diffused light that illuminates gently.

Translucent: Captures the spirit of a gentle, uniform light.

 

Selens 5 in 1 60cm Light Reflector

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MOSISO Camera Backpack

The MOSISO Camera Backpack is a flexible and well-made backpack that is ideal for all levels of photographers. It’s composed of tough polyester and has a waterproof hard-shell case to protect your goods from weather conditions. The backpack also includes a cushioned laptop pocket that can hold up to a 15-inch laptop and several extra sections for storing your photographic equipment, accessories, and personal stuff.

In detail, it is 17.32 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches, constructed of tough polyester, and has a wide-open design for easy access to your equipment. It also has a tripod/monopod holder, an umbrella or bottle of water pocket, and an anti-theft pocket for your wallet, phone, and other valuables.

 

MOSISO Camera Backpack

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MACTREM 80″ Camera Tripod

The MACTREM 80-inch tripod is a portable, lightweight tripod that is ideal for travel. It is built of high-quality aluminum and can withstand a maximum load of 33 pounds. The tripod folds down to 18.5 inches in length and fits conveniently into a carry bag.
A 360-degree swivel ball head on the tripod allows you to rotate the camera in any direction. The ball head also features a perfect 360° scale that aids picture alignment. To boost stability, a stability hook can be suspended from the tripod.

 

MACTREM 80″ Camera Tripod

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The tripod legs are extendable, ranging from 18.5 to 80 inches. The tripod’s leg angle may also be easily changed to suit your photographic needs.
It is designed to work with most cameras, including DSLRs, projectors, and telescopes. It also has a phone mount for attaching your phone to the tripod.

Moreover, The MACTREM 80-inch tripod is an excellent alternative for photographers seeking a lightweight, durable, and adaptable tripod. It’s ideal for traveling and may be used for various photography projects.

Technics Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

In addition, the Technics EAH-A800 wireless noise-canceling headphones impress with their unwavering commitment to high-fidelity sound. Users can expect detailed audio across a wide frequency response, allowing them to experience music in its purest form.

The LDAC codec further enhances the listening experience by actively supporting high-resolution audio streaming, free from compression artifacts. Additionally, Technics Acoustic Control Plus dynamically adapts the sound to the wearer’s style and environment, ensuring optimal audio quality in any situation.

 

Technics Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

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Beyond exceptional sound, the EAH-A800 boasts dual hybrid active noise cancellation for focused listening, seamless multi-point connectivity, and crystal-clear call quality. Users can personalize their experience with customizable EQ settings and enjoy up to 50 hours of battery life. Memory foam earpads and an adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, making the EAH-A800 a compelling choice for discerning audiophiles seeking a combination of superior sound, advanced features, and comfort.

Amazon.com eGift Card

Choosing the perfect gift for a filmmaker can be a daunting task. Do they already own the latest gadgets? Are they missing an essential tool? Or perhaps they’d prefer something more creative and inspirational?

Fear not, for the Amazon.com eGift Card holds the answer! It unlocks a world of endless possibilities for filmmakers of all levels, empowering them to choose exactly what they need or desire to elevate their filmmaking skills to the next level.

 

Amazon.com eGift Card

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Storyboard Notebook

This storyboard notebook empowers you to visualize your shots with precision, thanks to its widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio that mirrors the format of film and television. Sketch and plan even the most intricate scenes with the 170 high-quality pages at your disposal. Built to withstand the creative process, this durable notebook is the perfect companion for on-the-go brainstorming sessions.

Customize the layout to your specific needs and storyboard style with the unformatted panels, allowing your creativity to flourish freely. Visualize your story, develop your ideas, communicate effectively, improve your workflow, and fuel your creativity with this versatile tool. This storyboard notebook is more than just a tool; it’s a companion on your creative journey, actively aiding you in bringing your ideas to life, transforming scenes into reality, and making your cinematic vision a tangible masterpiece.

 

Storyboard Notebook

Check on Amazon

 

Choosing the perfect Christmas gift for a filmmaker can be daunting, but with a bit of thought and consideration, you can find something that will truly spark their creativity and fuel their passion. Whether it’s a practical tool that helps them bring their vision to life, a creative resource that inspires them to explore new possibilities or a personalized token of your support, the best gifts are those that demonstrate your understanding and appreciation for their artistic journey.

So, this Christmas, go beyond the standard camera accessories and editing software. Think outside the box and choose a gift that celebrates their unique talent and encourages them to reach for the stars in their filmmaking endeavors. Remember, the most valuable gifts often nurture the spirit and ignite the creative flame. With the right choice, you can help make their Christmas a truly unforgettable one.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

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The Most Innovative AI Tools in Filmmaking

The Most Innovative AI Tools in Filmmaking
December 22, 2023

The Most Innovative AI Tools in Filmmaking

Imagine a world where your wildest cinematic dreams take flight, fueled by the boundless potential of AI. Where storyboards become living, breathing worlds, and scripts morph into masterpieces with the help of machine learning. Where budget limitations become mere suggestions, and VFX artistry becomes a playground for your imagination. This is the world that awaits us, and it’s closer than you think. In this article, we’ll unlock the secrets of the most innovative AI tools in filmmaking, tools that empower you to create cinematic magic without breaking the bank.

The Most Innovative AI Tools in Filmmaking

So, join us as we journey through the future of film, where the only limit is your own creativity. Let’s paint the screen with the colors of innovation and tell stories that will leave audiences breathless. We’ll delve into AI-powered storyboarding that brings your vision to life, script analysis software that polishes your narrative like a diamond, and VFX magic that transcends physical limitations. This isn’t just science fiction – it’s the future of filmmaking, and it’s here now.

Deep Dives into the AI Filmmaking Toolbox

Artella

Concept to Canvas: Take your rough sketches, doodles, or even verbal descriptions, and Artella’s AI will transform them into dynamic storyboards with professional layouts and compositions. No need for detailed drawing skills – focus on your ideas and let Artella handle the visuals.

Rapid Iteration: Don’t get bogged down by endless redraws. Artella allows you to quickly experiment with different camera angles, scene compositions, and character poses, making it easy to iterate and refine your storyboards until they’re perfect.

Collaboration & Feedback: Share your storyboards with your team or clients easily and receive feedback right within the platform. Artella’s annotation tools make it simple to pinpoint specific elements and discuss revisions.

Beyond Storyboards: While storyboarding is its core strength, Artella can also generate animatics, rough character designs, and even concept art, providing a holistic visual foundation for your project.

Artella

 

 

ScriptBook

Story Architect: ScriptBook goes beyond grammar and spellcheck. Its AI analyzes your script for pacing, character arcs, plot consistency, and even emotional beats. It identifies areas where your story might drag, where characters lack development, or where plot points don’t align.

Dialogue Doctor: Get insights into your characters’ voices and dialogue patterns. ScriptBook can identify inconsistencies and overuse of certain words and even suggest alternative lines for more natural-sounding conversations.

Theme Weaver: Uncover the hidden threads that bind your story together. ScriptBook helps you identify recurring themes, motifs, and symbols, ensuring your narrative has a cohesive and impactful message.

Data-Driven Decisions: Gain objective insights into your script’s strengths and weaknesses. ScriptBook provides reports and visualizations that help you track progress, compare drafts, and make informed decisions about your story.

ScriptBook

 

 

AI Dungeon: Dive into Interactive Storytelling

AI Dungeon is a text-based adventure game powered by artificial intelligence. It takes you on interactive journeys through fantastical worlds, where your choices shape the narrative and your imagination becomes the ultimate weapon.

Interactive Storytelling: Unlike traditional games with pre-determined storylines, AI Dungeon offers a dynamic experience. Your every input, from actions to dialogue choices, influences the story’s direction. You’re not just playing; you’re co-creating.

AI-Powered World Building: The AI engine crafts rich and immersive environments populated with diverse characters and unpredictable events. From bustling city streets to treacherous dungeons, AI Dungeon surprises you with its ever-evolving landscapes.

Unlimited Scenarios: The possibilities are truly endless. Explore classic fantasy realms, delve into sci-fi dystopias, or even invent your own genre. AI Dungeon adapts to your preferences, generating unique scenarios with each playthrough.

Brainstorming Playground: Stuck on a writing block or need inspiration for your next creative project? AI Dungeon can be your ultimate brainstorming tool. Experiment with different characters, plotlines, and settings, and let the AI guide you towards unexpected twists and turns.

Developing Skills: Beyond its entertainment value, AI Dungeon can be a valuable tool for developing your storytelling and critical thinking skills. The constant interaction and decision-making challenge you to think creatively and adapt to unexpected situations.

AI Dungeon

 

 

RunwayML: Unleash Your Inner VFX Wizard

Effortlessly replacing green screens with stunning landscapes – No more tedious masking and color correction. Simply drop your footage into RunwayML and let the AI seamlessly blend your actors into any environment.

Generating realistic special effects with just a few clicks – Need fire, explosions, or even weather phenomena? Forget expensive post-production software. RunwayML’s library of AI-powered effects lets you add cinematic flair in seconds.

Upscaling low-resolution footage to stunning 4K – Breathe new life into your old videos or capture stunning close-ups without sacrificing quality. RunwayML’s AI technology can transform pixelated footage into high-resolution masterpieces.

Exploring cutting-edge tools like object removal and video editing automation – Push the boundaries of storytelling with features like removing unwanted objects from your scenes or letting AI automatically edit your footage for smoother transitions and pacing.

RunwayML

 

This is just the beginning of AI’s journey in filmmaking. Stay curious, explore the ever-expanding toolbox, and challenge yourself to integrate these tools into your unique storytelling vision. Join the conversation, share your experiences, and help shape the future of AI-powered cinema. Your voice matters, and your creativity can unlock the next wave of innovation. Let’s create together, powered by the magic of AI and the boundless potential of human imagination.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps When you’re making a film, one of the most important things is to create engaging characters that hold our attention for the entire runtime.  I know that creating characters is not as easy as it sounds.  If you are stuck...

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

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What is “Art” in Film

What is “Art” in Film
January 2, 2020

What is “Art” in Film

Art is an imitation of reality —Plato

Plato defines the term “art” as an imitation or representation of reality. Other philosophers also considered art as a medium for the transmission of feelings.

Regarding art in film, almost all films can be considered art. But we can differentiate between high-art and low-art.

In that sense, we can’t consider anything filmed on a camera and screened on any screen as art. This is a big debate…

Can a soap opera be considered art? Is a TV show art? or can movies such as The Avengers or Scream be considered as art? Tell me what you think about this in the comments below.

In this post, I will be talking about a specific type of movies: Art films, or what you may know as art house films.

Definition of Art-house Movies

Before diving into the technical aspects and definitions of art films, I will try to simplify the definition.

Art house films are movies that deal with serious (and often psychological ) themes. The biggest defining feature is being slow-paced and hard to understand. That is because art films usually lack a well-defined conflict and do not follow a clear storyline. This is the main reason that many people consider art-house movies to be boring.

Another main characteristic of such films is that they depend heavily on visual language. In order to understand these films, you should have at least a minimum knowledge of film language and the interpretations of different camera angles, movements, and colors.

Now let’s get a bit technical in the definition of the word “Art” in art movies.

Art films are usually intellectually challenging movies in contrast to emotionally entertaining.

They have some defining features such as ambiguity, a distinctive directorial style, and characters lacking clear goals.

In order to consider a film (or any other form of art) aesthetic, the spectator should look for beauty, originality, solutions to artistic problems, use of metaphors, sensitivity to emotions, highly graphic cinematography, violation of narrative conventions

Cinema’s main and distinctive function in capturing what’s in front the camera turns out to be the grounds of film-as-art arguments.

Expressive Cinema

Rudolf Arnheim, the German author and film theorist, worked under the assumption that art should be expressive. Meaning that the input or the subjectivity of the artist should be present in the work rather than being just a copy of reality.

For example, watching an event on screen is affected by technical limitations and artistic decisions that prevent the images on the film to be accurate. That is because the depth of the camera lens is different from that of the human eye. The size and shapes of the objects are optically manipulated, and the range of vision is defined by the frame and camera movement. Exploiting these discrepancies in cinema is what makes the medium artistic and what gives meaning to the images.

To make more sense of this statement, consider a close-up low-angle shot of a character. The resulting image will be distorted by having the character’s head seem small with respect to the body, and the character would seem to be towering above the viewer. But this distortion is considered to be communicating a specific meaning. Such shot would be analyzed as giving the character power and a strong standing point. By that, the shot is said to be expressive.

Realism

But by just accounting for the limitations of film to achieve expressiveness is to miss another capacity of cinema as a representational art form.

The French film theorist Andre Bazin seems to be an advocate for the argument that realism is the core of film art.

Bazin defined realism in cinema by recording what is happening in front of the camera using medium-long shots, long takes, and deep focus imagery.

Conclusion

No matter how theorists define the art house films, and whether they gave the art an expressive or a presentational aesthetical value, they seem to be mostly considering how the meaning of films is created in relation to how the objects, characters, and events are presented on screen.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

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Film Narrative

Film Narrative
January 2, 2020

What is a Narrative film?

Simply put, a narrative film is a movie that tells a story. So any form of film that follows a chain of events is narrative.

Many people think that only fiction movies are narrative. But documentaries and movies that tell a real story can also be considered narrative films as long as there is a beginning point that develops throughout the events and leads to a sort of conclusion.

In this post, we will be focusing on the 2 main types of narrative: The liniar and the non-linear narrative.

The Linear Narrative

Linear is pretty self-explanatory. It’s a story that follows one line of narrative.

So, imagine that the movie is a journey from point A to point B. Throughout this journey, the events will drive the story of the movie.

The movie first starts with the stage of exposition. This part is often referred to as the stage of equilibrium. Here the scene is being set to the audience, and the world of the characters is presented.

Then, the disequilibrium. This is when something disrupts the state of normal and causes the events of the story to happen.

As the events complicate, the events of the movie ultimately reach the climax. A point where the stakes for the characters are the highest.

When this peak point is reached, the main characters will try now harder to restore the equilibrium.

The movie ends with the resolution. Here, the main characters would achieve in returning to the initial point. They could also reach another point that better or worse from where they initially started at the beginning of the movie. But they learned their lesson and suffered the circumstances.

For example, let’s use Toy Story.

Toy Story

By the end of the movie, Buzz has accepted his fate as a toy and is welcomed into Andy’s group of toys. whereas at the beginning he wasn’t even there.

So, to put it short, a linear narrative goes like this:
Movies start where characters in their everyday life, something happens that shakes this normality. Then, things get worse as the characters try to fix them. The movie ends with the characters returning to where they started or learning something new or even failing hard at it.

As you might now be thinking: Not all movies follow this linear narrative structure… you are correct.. here comes the non-linear structure.

Non-linear Narrative

The non-linear narrative tends to break up this simple line and put it back together in a different order.

These are the movies that do not follow the three act structure.

All Movies have a begining, middle, and end… But not necessarly in this order –Godards

Movies that follow this type of narrative like to mix things up. And because the events are not told in a straightforward manner, it will be up to the audience to do the thinking and guessing in order to understand the story and figure out the chronological order of the events of the story.

This doesn’t mean that movies with a non-linear narrative are ALWAYS hard to understand…

Almost all French New Wave movies follow the non-linear narrative… But Let’s have more known and popular movies as examples in this post.

A good example of a complicated non-linear narrative would be Christopher Nolan’s Memento.

Memento has two sets of narratives running throughout the film. One in black and white and one in color.

These two narratives are broken up and mixed together! So you see a piece of one then a piece of the second and then back to the first… Scenes in black and white and other scenes in color.

Christopher Nolan’s Memento

Already the narrative is pretty nonlinear.

But memento takes it another step further. The colored narrative is actually being shown to us in Reverse.

The black and white sequence starts at the beginning and the colored sequence starts at the end. This completely screws up the narrative with the final clip transitioning from black and white to color showing the end of the first narrative and the start of the second.

I think that is as much complicated as it can be for a movie. But there are many other examples for movies that do not have a linear narrative structure but are still easy to follow and understand.

let’s take a look at Forrest Gump as an example. The movie has a nonlinear narrative and it’s really easy to understand.

Many people will argue that Forrest Gump actually follows a linear structure… After all, it follows Forrest from when he was a boy, we see him grow up to an adult. But the thing is it’s a broken story.

The movie starts with Forrest waiting on a bus stop, and the movie continues as Forrest is telling other people how he came to this point.

Forrest Gump

So, in a way, Forrest Gump starts from the end and takes us back to the beginning through Forrest’s stories.

In the case of Forrest Gump, the use of the non-linear narrative was not to make the movie more complicated or to make an artistic statement. The non-linear narrative can also be a convenient way for the writers to easily skip through all the boring bits that happen in between the events of a movie.

Conclusion

There is no better or correct narrative structure. Linear narratives are of course very successful. But it’s important to try out new things when writing your own screenplay.

If you are writing a screenplay, try messing up the order of events by having the end at the beginning or, putting bits in the wrong order. See if it makes your story more compelling and powerful. If it doesn’t add anything then leave it you’ve tried and that’s what’s important.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

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Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

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Why is Citizen Kane Important?

Why is Citizen Kane Important?
January 2, 2020

Why is Citizen Kane Important?

Citizen Kane is a film produced in 1941 and written, directed, and produced by Orson Welles who also starred in it as the role of the main character. Not only that, but the movie was Welles’s first feature film! Citizen Kane is considered by many critics and fans as the greatest film ever made. The movie is ranked 93rd top rated movie on IMDB and 4th on Rotten Tomatoes with a 100% positive reviews from critics. The main question is: why is citizen Kane that important? And why film critics consider it a revolutionary film? The answer will concern the narrative of the film and how the story was told. Before I dive into the answers, let’s quickly remember the movie.

Citizen Kane Summary

The movie starts with an old man on his dying bed. In the first scene the man says the word: “Rosebud” before he dies. And the journey begins in a search for the mystery of the meaning of Rosebub. After that it is revealed that this old man is actually the wealthy newspaper publisher Charles Kane. The audience are introduced to a documentary about the life of Charles Kane. The producer of this showreel is unsatisfied by the result because he thinks that it does not reflect the real character of Kane, so he send a reporter to search for the meaning of Kane’s last word. The reporter starts his investigation and interviews different people who were close to Kane in an attempt to find the meaning of Rosebub. The movie tells us the story of Kane from his childhood until he died through the interviews of his associates and through flashbacks.

Why is Citizen Kane and Important Movie?

Citizen Kane was considered as a turning point towards a new form of narrative cinema where the movie defied the conventions of the classical movie narrative. The story of the film is told from the perspective of six narrators by a series of flashbacks. This way of storytelling added complexity and ambiguity to the film narrative. Another modification in the typical narrative is that the film presented the ending of Kane since the beginning, the viewer knows that Kane will be successful and rich and that he will die at an old age. The enjoyment that the audience get from the narrative is no longer through suspense about what will happen to the character, but rather from understanding why his life turned out the way it did. In Citizen Kane, the spectator needs to put together bits and pieces presented by the six different narrators in order to get a hold on the whole narrative.

The ending: What is Rosebud?

In the end of the movie, the characters did not succeed in knowing the significance of the word “Rosebud”, but we are given an additional shot that Rosebud was engraved on a sled that belonged to the young Kane before he was taken from his parents. So, before the last shot the film ends with an open ending. But the final shot introduced the meaning of Rosebud to the audience and not to the characters. By that the movie has 2 endings. This is a new technique which adds to importance of Citizen Kane in film history.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

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The Death of Cinema: Is TV Taking the Place of Cinema?

The Death of Cinema: Is TV Taking the Place of Cinema?
January 2, 2020

The Death of Cinema: Is TV Taking the Place of Cinema?

TV shows are being more and more cinematic… This would make us think if TV is taking the place of cinema. If so, will cinema eventually die and become history?

The Second Golden Age of TV

In an era that is described as the television’s second golden age, TV stations ( HBO, FX…) and online streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu…) are competing to produce TV series with interesting plots, sophisticated filming techniques, and high production values. In addition to the economic success of these products, some TV series combined rich plots with stylized storytelling, which gave them critical acknowledgment and big viewership. Consider for example quality TV shows like The Handmaid’s Tale and Game of Thrones. All this led to shows that I would like to describe as cinematic TV series, or quality TV that has a cinematic look. As established film directors, producers and actors are venturing into TV series, we say that the line between cinema and TV is blurring.

Technology made it possible for the audience to choose among several platforms to watch films. We can now choose to watch a movie in the traditional way by going to a movie theater, buying a ticket and watching the film on the giant screen in the dark. Or we can chose to watch the film on a TV set at home with available options of considerably big 4K high definition screen and 5.1 surround system. Of course, the movie going rewards a different experience, but it would be rather easier, cheaper, time efficient, more flexible, and more accessible to watch a film on a DVD, VOD (Video on demand), online streaming, or even a broadcasted film. The film industry is going to the extent of producing films exclusively for the online streaming platforms. Certain quality films produced by Netflix are not screened in movie theaters.

In such cases, what would be the difference between watching a film or an episode of a quality series on Netflix?  And why wouldn’t both productions be considered cinematic? Such questions may bring up the thought that TV, and online TV, is taking over the traditional cinema, and may also introduce the idea of the decline of cinema and the rebirth of TV.

The Death of Cinema?!

The death of cinema is not a new concept. Cinema has faced many technological advancements throughout its history. First, the introduction of sound, and then the wide screen formats. These advancements changed the way films were produced and distributed. But the notion of the (hypothetical) death of cinema that concerns this article is the impact of television on cinema. To be clear, I don’t blame contemporary TV series for this assumed death of cinema. But the effect of television as a medium on cinema has long been discussed by many critics and scholars. Some went to the extent of saying that the invention of TV was starting point for the death of cinema.

The death of cinema does not mean the vanishing of cinema as a medium where films cease to exist and cinema theaters close their doors. It would rather refer to a shift in the dominant narrative medium. Meaning that cinema loses its hegemony in being the main source of audio/visual storytelling to TV. But, as the quality of television had developed, one might be able to think of this phenomenon as if television is being affected by cinema. But this idea may be controversial. Film critics tend to be defensive about cinema and refuse to transcend its artistic legacy to TV. Critics consider that the big screen is essential for the existence of cinema. Only the films that are watched in a movie theater projection, in the dark, without the ability to interrupt or modify the experience can be regarded as cinema.

The improvement of TV’s content should not mean that one medium would replace the other. Traditional TV programming contained mainly soap operas and sitcoms, which characterised the medium. But during the 1980s and 1990s, the style and content of these programs went through a considerable change. TV series started to stand in opposition of the mass-audience popular forms. This lead to rise of cultural niche programs (think of Twin Peaks, The Sopranos, and The Wire).

But is TV actually taking the place of cinema?

There are two approaches for this question:

1. Audiences prefer TV over going to cinema

If the question is suggesting that people are just watching TV rather than cinema, then the answer is NO!

TV is not taking the place of cinema in this sense. And the numbers back this argument. According to The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), the number of movie admissions and film revenue seem to be fairly stable in the last couple of years. Statistics show that the admission number to cinema has been almost stable since the 1970s. So there is no sensible negative effect of the rise of cinematic Quality TV series on the popularity of cinema. This rise in quality in TV shows has started since the 90s (about 30 years ago). It would be far fetched to consider this (relatively new) genre of TV to be competing with the 100 year of cinema. Cinema seems to be standing strong as the main source for narrative and fiction entertainment.

Percentage of The US Population that Went to Cinema on Average Weekly

2. TV is replacing cinema in the artistic sense

Another way to answer the question is by looking at the question in the artistic sense. So, the question would be: Is TV replacing cinema as the home for artistic audio/visual storytelling?

Here I would give my vote for TV. The shows of this second golden age of TV are having great cinematic quality and artistic value. In comparison you can easily notice that the movies that are gaining the most recognition are commercial movies. Mainly action, fantasy and super-hero genres. The more “serious” content is on TV. There you can find many popular shows with deep psychological characters, controversial plots, symbolic meanings, and creative story-telling… Think of shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, The Man in the High Castle, The Young Pope, Mr. Robot, The Affair, Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones… and many others. Please write the name of the shows that you think we must add to this list in the comment section.
I will not dive deeper in the artistic value of TV, but you can read about Art in film here.

On an ending note, I think that we should not consider TV and cinema as enemies in a war where one should take the place of the other. Each has its own experience. Cinema has (and still is) providing us with great movies that satisfies all tastes. TV is picking up in the artistic sense, and the quality of its content is increasing. After TV was based mainly on soap operas, sitcoms, and talk/game/reality shows. The more competition, the more good content for us!!

What do you think about this cinema V/S TV argument? I would like to read your thoughts.

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German Lover).Directed by Alain Resnais.Written by Marguerite Duras.   Story Set in the summer of 1957 in Hiroshima. A French...

French New Wave

French New Wave

French New Wave History Background The French New Wave can be considered as a reaction to the World War II. During the war, American films were banned in France by the Nazi occupation. This left the French cinema lovers hungry for films especially that the only...

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

Create Engaging Characters Using These 4 Steps

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best DSLR Cameras Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs for short, are the most popular and effective instruments in photography for taking incredible images and films. DSLRs have captured photographers’ hearts for decades, both new...

Up next

Hiroshima Mon Amour

Hiroshima Mon Amour Cast: Emmanuelle Riva (Elle), Eiji Okada (Lui), Stella Dassus (Mother), Pierre Barbaud (Father), Bernard Fresson (German...

read more