Article 1
http://www.sensesofcinema.com/contents/07/45/paul-thomas-anderson.html
This article written by Andre Crous talks about current filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson and his use of the tracking shot. An opening quote by Anderson states that while Steadicam shots are typically overused in his opinion, they can be utilized well if they encompass a floating, dreamlike atmosphere that is inherent in the technique.
Crous goes on to elaborate how Anderson has used a tracking shot in all of his films and has distinguished himself from those who have used the shot in more formal ways than others (Tarantino's Pulp Fiction.) While the typical trajectory of the tracking shot seems to be forward on a horizontal plane, Anderson moves left, right, backwards, forwards, up and down, all in real time. But thats not to say Anderson's operatic movement isn't strictly grounded in realism. Crous mentions that Anderson likes to have a shot linger from high above and descend or roam aimlessly through a given space as if the camera was some kind of god or supernatural force. It is Anderson's combination of the natural/supernatural in the memorable opening sequence of Boogie Nights that has led some to compare it to Scorcese's infamous Steadicam shot in Goodfellas.
Article 2
http://www.sensesofcinema.com/contents/directors/02/kubrick.html
Keith Uhlich writes a thorough article on the life and work of Stanley Kubrick, one of my favorite directors. He charts his life from magazine photographer to esteemed director and offers great insight on all of Kubrick's films. It's a shame Uhlich hasn't seen Kubrick's first feature, Fear and Desire. Though obviously somewhat amateurish, the film establishes what would become the reoccurring themes of his work: war, violence and the psychology of man and his physical/social entrapment. Uhlich charts Kubrick's maturity as a filmmaker and how with each film he would become more and more meticulous and demanding in regards to actor's performances and technical acheivement. Uhlich also writes how all his films are shrouded in ambiguity in terms of certain meanings, but that are still intriguing to watch because of Kubrick's passion for mise-en scene and music.
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2 comments:
Brian
Re: Article #1
Why did you select this article? Do you know PT Anderson's films? The article sounds great and I appreciate the introduction. I should check it out, fond as I am of articles that focus on something particular, in this case a camera move.
As a report, this is fine, as a summary helpful. You read as though the article engaged you, was of interest. But I'd like to hear more here. These posts are ideally balance of the article read and of you - your thoughts, reactions, opinions.
That is why I asked if you have a relation with Paul Thomas Anderson's films, if you know of the camera moves Crous writes about. Or thoughts on the tracking shot - in general, in other films? is it any more cinematic that other shots? What does it allow - how does it allow Anderson to combine the natural and the supernatural, for instance?
These questions are all possible directions you could take to expand your thinking. or perhaps you know other routes. But, it'd be good to hear more form you, to see you share your thoughts on all this.
Brian - given your investment in Kubrick, you could easily have had more to add here. Or do you find Uhlich thorough enough - curious lapse on "Fear and Desire" aside -- that there is no room for comment?
And I respect that the perhaps neutral great director profiles on Senses of Cinema my not solicit much reaction. Or, given that the article covers a whole career, the idea of responding may be overwhelming.
Feel free in these posts to isolate a particular part or aspect of the article under consideration, or comment on what most engages you or troubles you.
For instance, can you isolate what it is about Kubrick that makes him one of your favorite directors? Does this article concur or align with your thinking on that point?
Again, I'd like to read you, see you, contending - in agreement, in disagreement, in parallel commentary - on the topics you encounter. Hope to find a balanced amount of your opinion in the final round of blogs.
But, this post is a good start. A good portrait of Senses of Cinema, good selection of articles, attentive summaries. Now just add you.
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