Battle of Algiers Flashcards
The Cinema Verite style of filmmaking often employs handheld cameras and lightweight equipment to convey “candid realism.” What do you suppose is the relationship between the portability of equipment and realism in film? How does one effect the other?
The relationship between the portability of equipment and realism is just about a direct correlation—the more portable the equipment is, the more realistic a scene will appear. Though this does not apply to all scenes it applies to most for an important reason; we experience life with a “hand-held” visual intake of the outside world, we do not pan perfectly or direct our vision by first sitting upon a tripod or a dolly. Unless we are frozen in place and have our vision in perfect still focus, our visual reality is found in the “candid realism” of imperfect movement.
What is the literal definition of Mise-en-scene? (short answer)
In French Mise-en-scène directly translates to “put in the scene”.
Why does Hollywood frown on the use of Mis-en-scene and the use of the long take in its conventional model of filmmaking?
Hollywood frowns on the use of Mise-en-scène and the long take in its conventional model of filmmaking because the production has to focus more on spatial relationships and setting. Also the economics of Hollywood is often not well suited for Mise-en-scène and it can take longer to actually film.
What does an eye-line match accomplish for the audience watching a film? (short answer)
An eye-line match ensures that the audience is seeing what the on-screen subject in the film is seeing (often off-screen), and also implies recognition in said subject.
What does a close-up shot do to a person in a film? (short answer)
Close-up shots “individualize” a person in a film, and require the viewer to focus on said person.
In asymmetric warfare, name one way (of several mentioned) that the combatants in a war can differ. (short answer)
In asymmetric warfare two or more combatants can differ in tactical strategy, with the stronger side being significantly better prepared from a strategic standpoint.
What is sometimes used as a tactic by the weaker side in an asymmetrical conflict? (one word)
Terrorism.
What American war in the 1700’s, by it’s proper name, was an example of an asymmetrical war? (short answer)
The American Revolutionary War (American War of Independence) was an example of an asymmetrical war.
In American war named above, who were the two combatants? (short answer)
America and Britain were the combatants in the American Revolutionary War.
Who directed The Battle of Algiers and in what year? (short answer)
The Battle of Algiers was directed by Gillo Pontecorvo in 1966.
