2. Film Noir and Expressionism Flashcards
What is a key characteristic of German expressionism in film?
The use of shadows and light on specific areas to show what is unknown to the spectator and guide their central view.
What type of environments are commonly depicted in German expressionism?
Closed spaces that create an eerie feeling of being watched.
How does darkness contribute to the atmosphere in German expressionism?
It creates a fear of the unknown, suggesting that something could be lurking in the shadows.
What is the key idea of the visual language in German expressionism?
To externalize the internal feelings of characters through mise-en-scene and lighting.
How does ‘Shadow of a Doubt’ (1943) use shadows?
The shadows of the railing reflect the character’s feelings of being trapped and lost within the space.
The angle of the shot is slanted to show the character’s mental state.
What does the aerial shot in ‘Vertigo’ (1958) signify?
The shot of the stairway reflects Scottie’s mental condition and his inability to think straight.
What does the green light symbolize in ‘Vertigo’ (1958)?
It represents Judy’s connection to Madeleine and her lack of true identity - unmotivated light source from outside lights up Judy’s silhouette.
How does Hitchcock create a sense of fear in ‘Vertigo’ (1958) as Scottie hangs off the roof?
By highlighting Scottie’s fear with light while darkness encroaches into the shot.
What visual technique is used in ‘Psycho’ (1960) to represent the character’s duality?
Half of the character’s face is lit while the other half is in darkness. The light focuses on Scottie further highlighting his fear.
What does the use of shadows in ‘Psycho’ (1960) represent?
The unknown aspects of the character as he ascends into a new environment.
