Evaluation

1.  What were the aims of the script and 9 key frames?
2.  What codes and conventions identified in the textual analysis essay were used in the script and 9 key frames?
3. How was the location report used in the construction of the 9 key frames?
4. How successful was the script ad 9 key frames in achieving the aims?

 
Question 1:
The purpose of the script was to either create a disruption or resolution scene. I chose to do the resolution scene, which is meant to be the last scene from the remake of Skyfall. The script explores my macro study, as well as my hypothesis statement, which is “the representation of men through propaganda, with an element of weakness". Through many aspects, such as: dialogue and stage directions, I was able to convey my thesis statement and macro study within the script. The purpose of the nine keyframes that I created, was to choose the nine most important parts of the script to link with my macro study; the representation of men, through propaganda. I had to show this through the use of location, costume, props, actors, lighting (mise-en-scene) and cinematography (camera angles and shots).

Question 2:

The genre of action and representation of men through propaganda are typical in Bond films. My thesis statement went beyond this to identify the more current approach in films where the action hero is made more realistic by displaying some sort of weakness. In my textual analysis, I identified the strong masculine screen presence portrayed through mise- en- scene, camera angles (cinematography) and also phallic imagery. I used these techniques in my nine keyframes in an attempt to show Bond as very strong and appealing. I used the Gherkin Building as a form of phallic imagery, the lighting in the lab was used so that Bond was always in the lighter side and the camera angles varied to show Bond as both dominant and weak.

Costume wise, I had Bond dressed in smart attire; a black blazer, black tie and white shirt. He’s dressed in black while he’s investigating and killing. However, in the last keyframe as he walks away he takes off the black blazer and tie, leaving him in a plain white shirt. The plain white shirt in the last keyframe is representative of him getting rid of all the impurities (killing). The white shirt does not have the blood stains of killing; the white shirt is the metaphorical way to show that he is now pure.

Question 3:

The location report was an essential tool to influence the construction of my nine keyframes. This was more time-consuming than initially anticipated, as I had three geographically different locations. The location report allowed me to be better prepared for this, as I had to consider all aspects of location prior to taking the shots. In particular, I had to get to St Mary Axe - The Gherkin, with camera and props as well as ensuring that my actor was also there. The location was very busy and we had to be quite patient and allow extra time. I also needed to obtain permission, in order to use the lab for my snapshots. However, the location report allowed me to anticipate these issues in advance and make the necessary arrangements. Therefore I was able to use all three of my chosen locations to construct my nine keyframes.

I have mentioned in my script that Bond takes off his watch and gadgets and throws them in the river. In my location report this was meant to be the River Thames near the Gherkin. However, in reality this was not possible due to timing and loss of daylight. Therefore I had to use the river near my house.

Question 4:

The script was successful in establishing my macro study by focusing on Bond being shown very powerful and strong, through propaganda. The use of the London location and the Union Jack flag portrayed the propaganda I wanted to explore. These were contrasted with the second part of my hypothesis, as the script focused on how Olivia affects Bond, which makes him weak (as he cries after killing her). Therefore this clearly explores my macro and supports my hypothesis statement.

The nine stills that I've chosen are the most effective and essentials parts in the script, as each still highlights something different. Each still is supported by the micro analysis. I decided to create a resolution scene because it leaves a lasting impression in the minds of the audience. Since I wanted to show Bond really strong and powerful, I also wanted to challenge the way heroes are represented throughout an action thriller. This is why I showed Bond being stuck between love and duty, then finally choosing duty by sacrificing his love.