Literary
a character or force that obstructs the protagonist from his/her goal
antagonist
what the characters are wearing, helps build characterization
costumes
a shot of a small object or part of a face fills the entire screen
extreme close-up
the specific actions and events filmmakers select for viewers to explicitly see
plot
This mode constructs a specific argument or a point of view for the audience. Often a strong, authoritative voice shares important information that corresponds with film footage to further prove the point.
Expository
a unifying idea or message carried throughout a work
theme
quality, believability, style, and approach of bringing a character to life
acting
used to show actions in different locations, happening simultaneously.
parallel editing/crosscutting
refers to a sound source that is not visible or a part of the action
non diegtic sound
This style of “Cinema Verite” (true cinema) lets the camera capture its subjects uninterrupted, in its natural environment.
Observational
the position or perspective from which a story is told
point of view
instrumental music created for a specific production
score
this editing sequence shows a character's movement smoothly and seamlessly
cutting on action
any objects outside of costumes or scenery that actors interact with
props
This mode is not about the director’s relationship with the subject, but rather the director’s relationship with the audience. It often exposes the process and the product of the storytelling with “behind the scenes” shots.
Reflexive
the use of images or objects to represent ideas or suggest emotions
placement of performers in relation to each other & camera
staging/blocking
this shot shows a landscape, building, large crowd-the open environment
wide shot
the camera moves up or down from a fixed base
tilt
This style suggests that truth is relative, since it favors a personal take over the objective lens. The filmmaker is deeply connected to the content and even becomes part of it.
Performatory
the conclusion of events in the narrative structure, follows the climax
resolution
the natural environment as well as the indoor surroundings
scenary
the interruption of an action by inserting a view of something else
cut away
camera moves up and down through space on a crane
boom
This style often ignores traditional linear structure and instead arranges scenes to create an emotional response for the audience rather than an educational one about the subject matter.
Poetic