The Key Elements of Film Form

The Key Elements of Film Form

New Hollywood Cinema (1961-1990) - Key Elements of Film Form

  1. Narrative Elements: This refers to the storytelling aspect of films. The New Hollywood cinema period was known for its complex narrative structures, with non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, and multiple storylines.

    • Flashbacks and Non-linear storytelling: Films like “The Godfather Part II” (1974) and “Pulp Fiction” (1994) showcase this narrative style, where the sequence of events is not ordered chronologically.

    • Multiple Storylines: Films like “Nashville” (1975) and “Short Cuts” (1993) are examples of films that follow multiple characters and storylines, weaving together a complex narrative tapestry.

  2. Cinematic Techniques: These are the technical elements that contribute to the visual side of film. From camera movements, angles and types of shots, to editing techniques, lighting and colour grading, these elements create the visual story that unfolds on screen.

    • Unconventional Camera Techniques: New Hollywood films often employed innovative and unexpected camera techniques, like handheld camerawork in films like “Mean Streets” (1973) and “The French Connection” (1971).

    • Innovative Editing Techniques: These films also used innovative editing techniques, as seen in the jump cuts of “Easy Rider” (1969) and the split screen methodology in “Woodstock” (1970).

  3. Sound and Music: This could include music, sound effects, and dialogue. New Hollywood Cinema was known for its eclectic use of sound and music. Many films of this era used popular music of the time, as opposed to composed film scores, to set the tone and mood of a scene.

    • Diegetic and Non-Diegetic Sounds: Examples are the use of popular music to create mood and set the period in films like “American Graffiti” (1973) and “The Graduate” (1967).

  4. Mise-en-scène: This French term translates to “placing on stage,” and it encompasses everything that appears before the camera in a single film shot – including the lighting, set decoration, costume design, and actor performances.

    • Symbolism: The symbolism in the mise-en-scène of New Hollywood films was often used to subtly express social and political commentaries, as seen in films like “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967) and “Chinatown” (1974).

  5. Characterisation and Acting: This element defines the portrayal of characters, their depth, and evolution throughout the film. The New Hollywood period is known for its rebellious characters and unorthodox protagonists.

  6. Themes and Ideologies: New Hollywood films were known for their countercultural themes, questioning the American dream and challenging societal norms. They reflected the significant political and cultural changes taking place in American society during this period.