Submit a reflection on how directors and production designers create worlds film.
James Ivory's A Room with a View(1986).
The following question should help frame your response:
- How would you describe the acting in the two scenes you've chosen? What is the interplay between the characters? Does art direction/production design contribute to the effect?
Do not use terms like "personally," "I think," "I feel." Treat reflections as if they were writing assignment. You're not writing a review of these films, therefore do not share how these films impressed you; don't refer to the "gorgeous cinematography" or "incredible acting." Avoid a casual, chatty, gossipy tone.
See attached slides
See sample writing
REFERENCES:
MOVIE LINK: https://www.criterionchannel.com/a-room-with-a-view?utm_source=criterion.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=watch-now&utm_content=film
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Movie Reflection 2
Old Joy Reflection Assignment 2
COM3417: Communication in Film
Professor Alfredo Soto
September 26, 2024
Florida International University
Abstract
Old Joy, by director Kelly Reichardt, uses the complex emotions and shifting dynamics of the characters to demonstrate the loss of friendship through the passage of time. The film’s minimalist approach towards production design creates a focal point on the tension between the characters, allowing viewers to experience the unspoken rift between the twin main characters, Mark and Kurt. The simplicity of the hot springs setting highlights the vulnerability of the characters as they momentarily reconnect.
In Old Joy, director Kelly Reichardt uses awkward silences and fragmented conversations in the scene where the men are driving towards the hot springs to reflect the unspoken emotional distance between the two men. Mark, who is played by Daniel London, displays his comfort and inner turmoil through tense body language and very short dialogue. Kurt, who is played by Will Oldham, contrasts Mark as he embodies a laid-back and almost nostalgic demeanour, which hints at his desire to reconnect with his old friend. The drastic difference in acting styles emphasizes the disconnect between the characters. Mark is visibly tense and is preoccupied with the responsibilities he left behind, namely his wife who is expecting their first child, unlike Kurt who is more carefree and yearning to relive the past.
The interplay between the characters is defined by their stilted conversations and emphasizes the emotional gap that has grown between the men. Their dialogue is often clipped, with Mark offering short, reluctant responses to Kurt as he attempts to spark up a conversation. The production design seems to amplify this discomfort as the characters are confined to the limited space in the car. The close proximity of the characters is opposite to the expansive forest outside which symbolizes the vast emotional distance that has settled between them. Finally, the map that Mark brings is an indication of the contrasting characters. Mark’s need for control and direction is a complete contrast to Kurt’s free-spirited approach to life. This prop highlights the tension in their relationship as they fail to pinpoint where they are, making the audience aware of the unspoken conflict.
The production design in this scene is crucial in conveying the emotional tone. The secluded setting of the hot springs creates a dreamlike space in which the characters can escape from the pressures of the outside world, even if its only temporary. The landscape is untouched and serene which contrasts the earlier tension between the characters. The characters remain calmly in their tubs, which highlights the irony of the situation because although they are peaceful, they are still burdened by personal struggles. The simplicity of the setting, with its natural roots, reinforces the themes of the film which revolve around lost connections and the passage of time. This minimalist approach allows the characters’ emotional journey to become the centrepiece of the scene because it allows the audience to focus on the characters’ subtle gestures and expressions.
Through the use of understated production design and meticulous acting, Reichardt creates a compelling landscape that mirrors the complex emotional state of its characters. The driving scene allows the audience to feel the weight of Mark and Kurt’s unspoken rift through the restrained performances of the characters. The interplay between the characters in the hot springs scene conveys to viewers that sometimes silence speaks louder than words, and the dreamlike environment becomes a silent witness to the vulnerability shown by both characters.