Comparing and Contrasting Films

Viewing and Breaking Down Film Elements

Examine each film separately: Begin by dissecting the first film’s primary components, and then move on to the second. Aim to understand the film’s narrative structure, genredom, and character development.
Identifying notable elements: Recognise and make notes on key components such as mise-en-scène, cinematography, sound design, and editing techniques in each film.
Story and Themes Analysis - Determine the main narrative and themes within both films. Look for any overarching philosophical or moral messages that the films might be conveying.

Finding parallels: Once you’ve broken down both films, start identifying their similarities. This can be anything from plot aspects to cinematography methods or thematic messages.
Noting differences: Just as important as recognising similarities are noting differences. These disparities can emerge in storylines, themes, directing styles, acting performance or any other key film element you’ve previously identified.

Analyse success or failure: Consider if the elements you’ve identified work well or poorly in each film. Articulate reasons why they succeed or fail.
Assessment of emotional impact: Consider each film’s ability to provoke emotion. This could be excitement, fear, joy, or a variety of other emotions. Compare these emotional impacts to judge which film was more successful.
Connection to cultural context: Understand the influence of cultural, historic or social context on each film. Evaluate and compare this context’s impact on each film.

Connecting the analysis: Tie together all your previous points. Highlight major comparisons or contrasts that offer a comprehensive understanding of the two films.
Making conclusions: Based on your analysis, conclude which film was more effective and why. Remember that this is subjective, and should be backed by reasons and arguments demonstrated through your analysis.
Broader connections: Identify any broader themes, messages, or trends that both films connect with. This could be a commentary on society, a recurring theme in cinema, or notable developments in filmmaking techniques.