Prior to starting the Introduction to Film Studies course at the University of Phoenix I was unaware of the various techniques and approaches used in evaluating a film. Through the duration of the course I was exposed to many eye opening revelations in film appreciation.
I have always enjoyed watching films and on a subconscious level recognized what the film was trying to say however I never realized the techniques on how they were conveying the message to me. Previously, just so long as the film intrigued me, dazzled me or humored me I was a happy camper and felt the movie was worth the time invested.
Today, after enjoying the HUM/150 course I am in another level of awareness. The same films which captivated me before I am now able to understand why and how the film used techniques such as lighting, cinematography. Other theatrical elements such as settings, costumes, makeup, lighting, props and other methods by the filmmakers are now noticeable. These elements are repeatedly visible throughout the film.
I now look at movies for the films auteur and director as I appreciate the role of the good visionaries and know that if I watch one of their movies I am likely to get consistent film quality. I appreciate how a director’s personality comes out in the style of the film. Directors imaginations influence the viewing experience.
There were many influences which altered my approach to viewing films, the first was the ability to now recognize genre and categorize the film I am watching. Now when I watch a movie I am paying more attention to the characters, how they are introduced and how they develop throughout the film. Additionally I am evaluating a film’s quality on lighting techniques and noticing how the lighting sets the tone or how the angles and editing lend to the emotion and setting for the plot.
Now that I have completed the Introduction to