Sequence Analysis Assignment

number of sources not specified –

5 marks-writing – spelling, grammar, syntax

10 marks-analysis – thesis statement, supporting arguments, evidence from sequence

Provide an aesthetic analysis of a sequence from one of the films screened in class and connect it semiotics and postmodernity, the male gaze, or the oppositional gaze.

You paper should focus on a short sequence and discuss it as closely as possible, taking care to analyze the relationship between form, content, and theory. (Note: you are expected to get a copy of the film or episode and watch it in its entirety).

There are 4 basic element that you can look at

Mise-en-scene (Visual design) – acting, costumes and makeup, lighting, setting, props
Cinematography – angle, framing, scale (long shot, medium shot, close-up shot), camera movement
Editing – How is point of view being constructed? Hint Point of View Eyeline Match
See https://filmglossary.ccnmtl.columbia.edu/term/point-of-view/

Sound – Diegetic (sound that has an on-screen source that characters can hear). Non-Diegetic (Soundtrack) characters cannot hear the sound.
Your analysis needs to contain a thesis statement which connects the theory to the sequence and the film/episode. It is suggested that this thesis statement describes how the chosen sequence expresses or contradicts/critiques a theory or concept. In other words, you need to demonstrate your understanding of a theory/concept from the course by applying that theory to a sequence shown in class and explaining how that sequence reinforces or contradicts it.

This is an academic assignment, so you are required to cite any sources consulted, including audiovisual essays and videos on YouTube.

Tips

Include screen captures breaking down images from the sequence in your analysis. (Note: This is not a requirement)

In your introduction, mention the elements that you will be looking at (mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing, sound).

If you don’t have a strong grasp of cinematography, editing, and or sound just focus on the mise-en-scene. In other words, describe what happens in the sequence and how it relates to the film and a visual theory

Suggested Sequences (and the theories that they pair well with)

Semiotics, Postmodernity, and the Simulacra

Blow-Up (Mimes Playing Tennis)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TYyhRbQBgs

42nd Street (The Male Gaze)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSvQtAnh_CI

Booksmart (The Male Gaze)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfD7hsMVLbs

Get Out (The Oppositional Gaze)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nma-y59bV5A

Daughters of the Dust (The Oppositional Gaze)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kxUL7QB1to . 9:00 – 12:21

Master of None: Season 2 Episode 8 (Oppositional Gaze)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mhDpAFnDaM