Silent Period -- I was impressed by how this chapter explains the development of film and the innovations people like Porter and Griffith made that would help to define the techniques that evolved into modern cinema.
Early Sound -- One of the things I liked about this chapter is how it explains the purpose of synced sound in film; sound enhances an image by sonically creating meaning.
Imaginative Documentary -- This chapter succeeds in demonstrating how propaganda, or politically charged film, can influence individuals. However, this chapter could use more examples of how documentary and propaganda come together.
The Influence of the Documentary -- This chapter succeeds at providing good parallels between film and real world events, and it makes good use of images to further support the examples presented. On the downside, the chapter contains too much filler information to the point that the conclusion best summarizes the chapter.
The Influence of the Popular Arts -- I liked this chapter because it successfully explains the influences of vaudeville, musicals, theatre, and radio on film, however, it places too much influence on editing without first explaining the role of editing in film (something that is not touched upon in any of the chapters in great detail).
Chapter 7: New Technologies -- One of the greatest strengths of this chapter is its ability to analyze the historical development of technology, with an emphasis on the impact of aspect ratios on cinema and shooting....
Our semester plans gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to our entire library of resources —writing tools, guides, example essays, tutorials, class notes, and more.
Get Started Now