2. ORIGIN
This theory says that Film is indeed art and not
reproduction of reality.
Unlike realist theorists, formalist film theorists believe
that the art of cinema is possible precisely because a
movie is unlike everyday life…
3. ORIGIN CONT.
Formalist film makers shape and mold the images we
see on the screen the way a sculptor shapes and
molds clay. Their approach to film emphasizes their
ability to create story and emotion through
manipulation.
5. IDEOLOGICAL FORMALISM
•Focus on how socio-economic
pressures create particular style
•How it communicates ideas,
emotions, themes
Two Examples related to
Formalism:
•Classical Hollywood cinema
•Film Noir
6. CLASSICAL HOLLYWOOD CINEMA
•Distinct style – create closed world on screen
•Make experience as pleasant as possible; Audience
gets involved
7. INSTITUTIONAL MODE OF
REPRESENTATION
•Dominant mode of film construction
•Production, production, production!
•Audience imaginatively involved in film – identify with
what’s on camera
•3D space created; Presented with clear pieces of
info
•Characters psychologically developed and
distinguished – close-ups, acting
•Narrative driven by character psychology
•Continuity editing, three-point lighting, “mood” music
8.
9. FILM NOIR
Founded by Nino Frank in 1946
Categorized as “Melodramas”
Moved toward “Crime” genre
Shot in Urban Environments
The main character is “flawed” or “morally
questionable”
10. POPULAR MOVIES
1941- The Maltese Falcon
1944- Double Indemnity
1946- The Big Sleep
2000- Memento
2005- Sin City
11. FORMALIST THEORY/AUTEUR
Created to redeem the art of film.
By arguing that films had authors, films could
be considered works of art like
Paintings
Literature
Music
12. FORMALIST THEORY CONTINUED
This theory would give the Director the bulk of
the credit and not the screenwriter.
Directors are now at the same level of
importance as novelist, composers & painters.
They get recognition for their craft.
Film is said to lye somewhere between theatre
and literature.
