It really took everything in me not to cry at this movie, it's so simple and sweet. The use of color in this film is so symbolic from her red jacket and the vividness of spring to the colorlessness of winters darkest moments. The scenery of the country side is also significant as its captured by a variety of long shots and panning.
Another technique that I thought was interesting in this film was how they used lap dissolve. This technique is used a few times throughout the film where multiple shots were layered on top of each other as others faded away. It really captures the passing of time without intruding on the films focus.
Many aspects of traditional Chinese culture is painstakingly obvious throughout the film as well like the undertones of Confucianism. Her role in the household as well as her respect toward her elders is seen as she cooks and keeps the household is very Confucian (the five relationships). The divide between male and female roles is also seen with the building of the school. It is very interesting (maybe even risky) though that Di and the school teacher were able to meet/converse the way they did.
The last thing I would like to address is how the film relied on capturing the actions and emotions of the characters without relying to heavily on dialog; it really shows the skill and attention of the camera. My question to you is, how do you think the film would change if it were shot in american culture? And why do you think symbolism is so important to this film?
You must cry with me! Your reflections on the themes and style of the movie are outstanding, very thoughtful. You make good use of your knowledge of China in them.
ReplyDeleteNicki,
ReplyDeleteI also thought that the lap dissolve technique in this film was an interesting way to show time passing by. It showed the persistence of Di as she waited to meet Luo on the path after school. It gave the viewer an idea of how hard she really was trying to be noticed by him. Also, symbolism is a key part of this film through so many objects; the bowl, the barrette, the road, the landscape, the changing seasons, the well, the food, etc. It is almost as if all of these items help to tell an even larger and more in-depth story right along side the plot of the movie itself.
Haley
First of all, your blog is SO cool-looking. More importantly, though, and to answer your question: In my blog post I also touched a little bit on how China as a setting is obviously integral to the movie; it is like the country is a character in itself. It's an important distinction, that this movie would be entirely different if set elsewhere, or at a different point in history. You made some really good points about traditional Chinese culture.
ReplyDelete- Jackie