Film Analysis

The Wizard of Oz

When analyzing the movie The Wizard of Oz, we were asked to evaluate the use of scale, paradox, and metaphor.

The use of scale can easily be found with the use of the munchkins. They are notable smaller than Dorothy, hence the term munchkin, and they are of little to no use during her adventure. Portraying them as small people signifies the insignificance of the munchkins.

The meaning of paradox is "a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true". One example of many in the movie is the portrayal of the wizard. He is seen as this almighty being who can fix any and all problems, but he is later exposed to be be just a man like any other.

Metaphors are used all throughout the film. The one that sticks out the most to me is the yellow brick road. The yellow brick road stands for two things; life and journey. Yellow is the color of happiness, positivity, and life. Following the path is taking Dorothy on this incredible journey to get to where she needs to go. On this journey, she meets and sees new things. The yellow brick road is a metaphor for taking the high road and, not necessarily taking the road less traveled, following your own path to the success in your own life.

Amelie

For the movie Amelie, we were asked to analyze the narrative and the lighting use.

The story is told through the eyes of Amelie. The story follows a linear timeline; there are no flashbacks. This, however, does not make Amelie's past of lesser importance to the rest of the film.

The use of lighting in this movie is important when analyzing it. The lighting sets the overall tone for the whole movie. The color palette used in dulled but bright colors. The use of lighting helped portray the bright colors to better fit the feel of the movie.