Week 1-2

Question 1

What is Form as a Pattern?

Answer 1

-Engages us by engaging our senses, feelings, and mind in a process
-Process sharpens our interest, focuses our attention, urges us forward.
-create a pattern/ give us form so we can have a structured experience
-Form is a central importance in film

Question 2

Bordwell, Thompson, Smith
Five Principles of Film Form.

Answer 2

1. Always consider the functions of each formal element. So what? Why does it matter?
2. Should consider the significance of any similarity and or repetition
3. Consider the import of difference and variation
4. Similarities and difference might suggest a pattern of development
5. Usually these formal patterns will be unified and film will reach closure

Question 3

What is Motif?

Answer 3

Any significant repeated element in a film. Can literally be anything

Question 4

What is Form?

Answer 4

The way parts work together to create an overall effect. Can engage us both intellectually and emotionally. We seek meaning.

Question 5

How does film’s form guide our interpretations?

Answer 5

It invites us to discover meaning by creating noticeable patterns.

Question 6

Bordwell, Thompson, Smith
Four Distinct Types of Meaning

Answer 6

Referential Meaning
Explicit Meaning
Implicit Meaning
Symptomatic

Question 7

What is Referential Meaning?

Answer 7

Film refers to something beyond itself. Can allude to other movies

Question 8

What is Explicit Meaning?

Answer 8

stated openly

Question 9

What is Implicit meaning?

Answer 9

meaning is implied

Question 10

What is Symptomatic Meaning?

Answer 10

are rooted in particular cultures