There are countless misconceptions about silent films that hinder audiences from indulging in the same experience as contemporary movies. Having little to no dialogue could be the very reason for them to feel uninterested. However, this is where the beauty and importance of the musical component emerge. Specifically, it provides an atmosphere that greatly emphasizes the scenes and the mood present in the films. It allows the viewers to be deeply drawn to what is happening without the need to read or hear words directly from the characters. And that is how “The Revenant” appears to be.
The Revenant is about the unsettling journey of Hugh Glass. Hugh Glass was a skilled frontiersman who was highly regarded by most, except for a trapper named Fitzgerald. The so-called Arikara Tribe initially assaulted their base, killing many of their members while saving others so they could continue their quest. Glass, however, unexpectedly became paralyzed and very near to passing away after being mauled by a grizzly bear. His son was murdered by Fitzgerald, who became even more furious towards him and left him to perish in the open. Glass was angered by what had happened and was driven to better himself so he could exact revenge on the man. The story continues with his struggles, encounters, and successes in achieving his goal.
Countless awards were received by the film including the director and the actor who starred in The Revenant. From BAFTA Awards, Teen Choice Awards, Golden Globes, and more. Despite the harsh criticism it gained, people seemed to still enjoy the silent gore film.
On the other hand, attention to The Revenant’s key features and elements, each played a vital role in the overall coherence of the film. Especially, the techniques utilized affected how we viewed and felt throughout the course of each scene. Starting with the cinematography which consists of editing, lighting, mise-en-scene, and camera angles. Knowing it takes place in a wilderness, the cinematography really helped in accentuating the setting and people. In particular, the lighting established the mood to give the impression that the environment is indeed dark and dangerous, the editing brought all the sounds and footage together to tell the story in an orderly manner...
the mise-en-scene enhanced what should be in a frame without overwhelming it with extra figures...
and the camera angles paved the way to the relationships among subjects but especially provide a perspective that allows the audience to convey the emotions of the characters even the surroundings' mood. Besides the cinematography, the genre as well was effective for this silent film. Even without many words, one can tell how strong the thrilling atmosphere is. Simply, the genre made it make sense. In conclusion, the film's cinematography is excellent. But let's not discount Leonardo, who played Glass just as brilliantly. You can sympathize with him because of how wonderfully he was laid out. His movements, sentiments, and tone of voice were all intense and dramatic. In the end, The Revenant ought to be worth trying to watch, even if silent movies aren't for everybody.
The Dead Poet’s Society is a film that is about a teacher named Mr. Keating, who came to an all-boys school wherein these young men are expected to profusely follow their parents. Mr. Keating with an acquired way of teaching, used poetry to help and bring to light their individual identity.
The film won numerous awards thanks to Tom Schulman who wrote it based on real-life experiences. Though before receiving recognition, it took a good while specifically years to be actually known to many. Like any other film, it was both given mixed emotions. However, there seem to be quite numerous factors that contributed to its overall success.
First is, the Theme. The story focused on two things, the real definition of an educator and freedom. Educators are meant to not only teach but as well as help them become the person they truly are and that is exactly how Mr. Keating was portrayed. He became this image of hope to the students who are lost to the real meaning of living life. He specifically helps in finding and learning to embrace themselves. The very reason the character is a breath of fresh air and a reminder that there is an educator out there similar to Keating. Second, is the presence of Imagery throughout the film. Every scene is filled with meaning one can relate to the story itself. For instance, the way the candles were lit up could represent how the teacher imparts his knowledge. Including the birds, and the freedom of the students to live in the moment at hand. Which are such lovely little elements that enhanced the enticement of the film.
Third is the Plot, the consequential development of the story. It was evident how the students began to be fond of the newly hired teacher. At first encounter they saw him as this weird guy who kept murmuring “carpe diem”, not knowing carpe diem would be the very reason for their will to enjoy life. Additionally, the scenes where each of their identity becomes apparent. The growth of confidence they all achieved to continue what they truly wanted.
And lastly is the Dialogue or Script. The characters' communication styles were quite fascinating, especially given the use of poetry and old English. Though, it cannot be denied that not everyone could take a liking to the way they spoke. It requires careful analysis and in-depth comprehension to grasp both the literal meaning and the hidden message.
The drama Dead Poet's Society is a good one, to sum it up. The finale may not have been what everyone wanted or expected, and some people may have even wished for something different, but that is what made it better than just good. It emphasized realism. But at the same time with idealism. Besides the unforeseen event is the ideals brought by the school. This image of greatness among men that is reinforced by the traditional education system made them feel pressured and suffocated. Until Mr. Keating came, the persona of realism. While giving them the opportunity to choose, he instructed them on the value of education.
Indeed, you’ll feel the emotions steeped inside every character. Their anger, will to do, happiness, and even silent battles. Furthermore, if it were to be compared in real life, though it may not have exactly happened, still such societal issues exist. Issues we might not be able to get rid of anymore.
It is in fact that the type of film is a huge factor in choosing what to watch. Usually, black and white films are something not everyone opts for. Visual effects or rather powerful cinematography is at the highest priority and importance nowadays.
Although, there is still something very nostalgic about having to experience a film without colors. Its simplicity draws the attention of audiences to see the world from both real and unreal perspectives. Real as in the stories are inspired by true-to-life events, and unreal because of how it looks as if the pictures in a book started coming to life on their own. And the Schindler’s List could be an example of such a film.
Schindler’s List is directed by Steven Spielberg who was popularly known to have created great classical films. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, and more. Spielberg began taking interest when an executive of his encouraged him to read a book entitled Schindler’s Ark. At first, he was hesitant but, fortunately, made the right decision which made him win recognition in many Awards shows. Even becoming 8th of the best 100 American Films.
The story took place during World War II, a time when German rule over the Jews was still in effect. Oskar Schindler, a German entrepreneur, and Itzhak Stern, a Jewish official, then started hiring Jews to work for their newly formed business. As it took hundreds of lives away from the fury of German soldiers, the enterprise had its ups and downs but largely thrived. However, Schindler started to lose money at a rapid rate, which made him fear for the safety of his employees. He was set to lose everything until Germany surrendered and declared Jewish liberation. Though he saved many, Schindler broke down believing he could have saved more. However, the Jewish people were beyond grateful for what he had done. And Schindler himself was awarded “The Righteous Among the Nations”.
The emphasis on Schindler is what distinguishes this critically praised movie. He was the subject of the story, which somehow transformed it into a teaching tool. They placed emphasis on a man who was overflowing with hope instead of the blood and homicidal intent from actual events. But in a way that preserves the truth and does not disregard the loss of those innocent lives.
For instance, Amon was portrayed as a man whose sole objective in life was to kill. Kill defenseless citizens, especially children, who wouldn't stand a chance against him in a fight. The presence of reality in the event was indeed evident while revolving around the story of Schindler.
Furthermore, another factor is Editing. The order of the events in the movie, in terms of sequencing, helped viewers comprehend the plot better. Because there weren't any overbearing details, each scenario was able to move along without any confusion. However, the lighting and shadowing also contributed. Given that the film is in black and white, there is a good chance that the visuals won't be visible. Both overexposure and underexposure can occur when there is too much light or shadow. Fortunately, the light was evenly distributed at this time, making it possible to detect even the smallest details. Let's not forget the Mise-en-scene, either. Additionally, the useful element includes the soundtrack, costume design, and stage design. It offered an aesthetic appropriate for the movie's genre.
Everything that is displayed on the screen is there for a reason; it did not just happen to be there. Items, people, and places were all carefully planned out. For example the girl, in the red coat. Red is considered a color that depicts strong emotions. Schindler himself saw the girl mainly because he had a strong will to continue to do good and a feeling of anger to perish the injustice in the system. To sum up, Schindler’s List is also a great film just like the previous movies mentioned. From the visuals to how the story flowed on its own. It was clear as day as to what message is being communicated which is an important lesson that should be taught still up to this day. A reminder of our fellow people’s history that changed their lives forever. Either for the bad or hopefully for the good.
