The Use of Mental Subjectivity: POV Shots in Film

 

The Use of Mental Subjectivity: POV Shots in Film

Introduction

In the realm of filmmaking, the use of mental subjectivity, specifically through the point-of-view (POV) shots, allows filmmakers to immerse the audience into the subjective experience of a character. Films like “Citizen Kane” and “Meshes of the Afternoon” employ this technique to provide a unique perspective, engage the audience emotionally, and manipulate their perception of the narrative. This essay will compare and contrast the use of POV shots in the films we have seen in class, analyze how we are aligned with the characters and how that alignment shifts, examine how we are manipulated, and explore the reasons behind those manipulations. Additionally, we will discuss the use of music, silence, and the role of privacy (or its absence) in relation to architecture in some of the films we have studied.

Comparing and Contrasting POV Shots in Class Films

POV shots have been used in various ways across the films we have seen in class. While each film utilizes this technique differently, they all aim to immerse the audience into the subjective experience of a character and convey their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives.

“Citizen Kane” (1941): Orson Welles’ masterpiece employs POV shots to provide a glimpse into the mind of Charles Foster Kane. Through Kane’s memories and recollections, the audience gains insight into his complex personality and motivations. The use of deep focus allows multiple elements within a scene to be in focus, mirroring Kane’s multifaceted nature.

“Meshes of the Afternoon” (1943): Directed by Maya Deren, this experimental film utilizes POV shots to create a dreamlike and surreal atmosphere. The repetitive use of imagery and shifts in perspective blur the line between reality and fantasy, immersing the audience in the protagonist’s fragmented psyche.

Other films: While not mentioned explicitly, it is important to note that various other films have also employed POV shots to achieve different effects. For example, Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” (1960) uses POV shots during intense moments to create suspense and convey characters’ fear. Similarly, Darren Aronofsky’s “Black Swan” (2010) utilizes POV shots to depict the protagonist’s psychological unraveling.

Alignment with Characters and Shifting Perspectives

POV shots allow audiences to align themselves with the characters on screen, experiencing events through their eyes. This alignment creates empathy and emotional engagement, enabling viewers to connect with the character’s thoughts and emotions. However, this alignment can shift as the narrative progresses or when filmmakers intentionally manipulate our perception.

Initial Alignment: At the beginning of a film, viewers are typically aligned with the protagonist or focal character. We see events unfold from their perspective, experiencing their thoughts, feelings, and sensory experiences. This alignment helps establish a connection between the audience and the character, drawing us into their world.

Shifts in Alignment: As films progress, there may be intentional shifts in alignment to create tension or surprise. Filmmakers can switch between different characters’ POVs to provide multiple perspectives on a situation or reveal hidden information. These shifts challenge our initial alignment and force us to reevaluate our understanding of the narrative.

Manipulation of Perception: Filmmakers can manipulate our perception through POV shots by deliberately distorting reality or presenting subjective interpretations. This manipulation can be achieved through techniques such as altered camera angles, visual effects, or sound design. By shaping our perception, filmmakers control how we interpret events and characters.

Use of Music and Silence

Music and silence are powerful tools in filmmaking that significantly contribute to the overall cinematic experience and enhance emotional impact.

Music: The use of music can heighten tension, evoke certain emotions, or emphasize key moments in a film. It can help set the mood, establish a specific time period, or provide insight into a character’s state of mind. For example, Bernard Herrmann’s iconic score in Hitchcock’s “Psycho” intensifies suspense during crucial scenes and adds to the psychological unease of the audience.

Silence: Silence can be equally impactful in creating tension or emphasizing certain moments. By removing sound, filmmakers draw attention to visual cues or heighten emotional impact. Silence can evoke feelings of unease or isolation and serve as a powerful contrast to moments filled with sound or chaos.

Role of Privacy and Architecture

The role of privacy (or its absence) and its relationship to architecture is an intriguing aspect explored in some of the films we have studied.

Architecture as Reflection: Architecture often serves as a reflection of characters’ inner worlds or societal structures. The design and layout of spaces can reveal aspects of characters’ personalities or reflect power dynamics within a society. For example, in “Citizen Kane,” Xanadu’s grandeur and opulence mirror Kane’s desire for dominance and control.

Privacy vs. Surveillance: Privacy is often explored in relation to architecture, particularly in films that delve into themes of surveillance or invasion of personal space. The use of architectural elements such as windows, doors, or walls can symbolize boundaries between public and private spheres. Films like “Rear Window” (1954) by Hitchcock demonstrate how architecture can shape our perception of privacy and influence character interactions.

Conclusion

The use of mental subjectivity through POV shots has proven to be a powerful tool in filmmaking. Films like “Citizen Kane” and “Meshes of the Afternoon” have effectively utilized this technique to immerse audiences into characters’ subjective experiences and evoke emotional engagement. The alignment with characters can shift throughout a film as filmmakers manipulate our perception through visual storytelling techniques. Additionally, music and silence play significant roles in enhancing emotional impact and setting the mood. The relationship between privacy (or its absence) and architecture is also explored in some films, shedding light on societal structures and character dynamics. Overall, mental subjectivity through POV shots allows filmmakers to create a more immersive cinematic experience that engages audiences on an emotional and psychological level.