PF - Cinematography Flashcards
Who directed the cinematography in Pulp Fiction?
Andrzej Sekula
What cameras were used?
Arriflex 35-III and Panavision Panaflex Gold II -film cameras
How can we describe the cinematography?
The colours, lighting, exposure, texture and continuity within each shot remains consistent, with elements of experimentation. This allows the spectator to focus on the dialogue and become fully immersed within the world of film.
What is the impact of experimental uses of camera techniques?
By using some experimental camera techniques, Tarantino is able to draw our attention to alternative areas of the frame, encouraging more active spectatorship. The use of some experimental techniques also align us with Tarantino’s visual direction.
How does Sekula experiment with framing in the Butch meets Marcellus scene?
He experiments with unconventional framing and composition. He chooses to frame the scene in a conventional over-the-shoulder shot but the focus is on the back of Marcellus’ head causing the spectator to focus on the mysterious band aid, and wonder what he looks like - creates enigma and provokes intrigue
What does the shallow focus on Marcellus create?
Makes him appear ominous and powerful due to the withholding of information - creating active spectatorship
How could we describe the ‘Taxi Ride’ sequence as postmodern?
Surrealism is created during the dialogue scene between Butch and the taxi driver via an obvious fake rear-projection setup. This gives the scene an incredibly post-modern stylistic aesthetic which is typical of Tarantino’s auteur style. Sekula and Tarantino experiment with a sense of staged-reality to heighten its postmodern, pulpy style.
What does the two shot between Butch and the taxi driver create?
Creates separation between the two
What does the taxi ride scene homage?
Classical Hollywood styles - distances you from the film (acentral imagining)
Which particular shot does Tarantino use frequently throughout Pulp Fiction?
Low angled shots are frequently used - most extreme example is in the boot/trunk shot
What is the impact of the trunk shot?
The shot situates the spectator in the position of a victim, creating an ominous and powerful impression of Vincent and Jules -serves to intimidate and victimise the spectator. Voyeuristic feel to the camera as we seem to be eavesdropping.
