Glossary of terms: Cinematic analysis by Professor Crane

Mise-en-scène

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:17:47 UTC

A French term meaning "placing on stage," referring to the arrangement of everything that appears in the framing – actors, lighting, décor, props, costume. It's considered a fundamental concept in film analysis.

Cinematography

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:17:52 UTC

The art and technique of camera work and photography in filmmaking. It involves the selection of camera angles, shot sizes, movement, and lighting to enhance storytelling.

Montage

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:17:56 UTC

The technique of editing a sequence of shots or images to condense space, time, and information for narrative or thematic purposes.

Diegesis

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:00 UTC

Refers to the narrative world of a film – everything that is seen, heard, or implied to exist within the story, including characters, settings, and sounds.

Auteur

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:05 UTC

A filmmaker whose personal influence and artistic control over a movie are so significant that they are regarded as the author of the movie. Central to "auteur theory."

Foley

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:10 UTC

The reproduction of everyday sound effects added to films in post-production to enhance audio quality. These sounds can range from footsteps to rustling clothing.

Genre

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:14 UTC

The categorization of films based on shared narrative elements, themes, and styles. Common genres include horror, comedy, drama, and science fiction.

Flashback

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:19 UTC

A cinematic technique that alters the sequence of events in a story to show an event that happened earlier. Used to provide background information, context, or reveal a character's memories.

Dutch Angle

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:23 UTC

A type of camera shot where the camera is tilted to one side, creating a feeling of disorientation or unease. Often used to portray psychological distress or tension.

MacGuffin

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:27 UTC

An object, event, or character in a film that serves to set and keep the plot in motion despite usually lacking intrinsic importance. Typically drives the protagonists and sometimes the antagonists.

Jump Cut

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:32 UTC

An abrupt transition between two shots, typically of the same subject but in slightly different positions. Creates a sense of disorientation or urgency.

Motif

sample_teacher — 2024-01-05 23:18:36 UTC

A recurring element – such as an object, concept, or theme – in a film that has symbolic significance. Often used to reinforce the narrative and thematic elements of the film.