

Take notes while you watch for the second time.For example, from whose perspective is this clip shot? What choices help convey that perspective? What is the overall tone, theme, or effect of this clip?

For this viewing, you will want to focus specifically on those elements of film analysis that your class has focused on, so review your course notes. Pay close attention to details and make observations that might start leading to bigger questions.
THE WRITING CENTER DEPAUL HELP HOW TO
Here are some tips on how to watch the clip critically, just as you would an entire film: How does this activity fit into the course? Why have you been assigned this particular film? What are you looking for in connection to the course content? Let’s practice with this clip from Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo (1958). Consider why you’ve been assigned to watch a film and write an analysis. Watching the filmįirst it’s important to watch the film carefully with a critical eye. The first step to analyzing the film is to watch it with a plan. Film analysis goes beyond the analysis of the film as literature to include camera angles, lighting, set design, sound elements, costume choices, editing, etc. Writing a film analysis requires you to consider the composition of the film-the individual parts and choices made that come together to create the finished piece. This handout introduces film analysis and and offers strategies and resources for approaching film analysis assignments.
