Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Shots in Back to the Future

For this blog post, I chose my absolute favorite movie, Back to the Future.

In this close up shot, we can see the details of the character Lorraine's expression. In the context of the movie, she is looking at Marty. It is clear to see from this shot that she has feelings for Marty already. This shot is important, because it must establish those feelings, just as we are introduced to the character. This leads to one of the main conflicts of the film, Marty trying to ensure that Lorraine ceases her longing for him - because she is his mother. 


In this medium shot from the same scene, Lorraine and Marty's relationship is even better established. You can still see Lorraine's feelings for Marty, but now you can see Marty's abject horror at the prospect of his mother liking him in that way. He is also somewhat bewildered, not only by the situation but by how attractive his mother is. That is an important aspect to the conflict mentioned above. The thought that she is his mother in the future disgusts him, but on one hand she is very good looking. 


This medium shot establishes important relationship details for Doc Brown and Marty. Marty's expression is hesitant and worried, as he is looking at what he has just been told is a time machine. However Doc is enthusiastic and smiling about it. Throughout the movie they maintain that relationship. Doc is always eager and impulsive while Marty is hesitant and thoughtful. A lot can also be said about Doc's hand on Marty's shoulder. Doc is a mentor to Marty and is a figure that Marty really looks up to.



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