2ACTIVITY #2 - QUESTIONS ON 'MEETING ALEX'

Short answer questions on Meeting Alex sequence. (All of these questions can be answered by
referring to those few shots where Jimmy takes her photo).

1. How does camera (refer to focus, type, angle and movement) convey a relationship
between two characters?
The shots of Jimmy taking Alexs photo utilizes a very shallow depth of field, blurring out
everything accept their faces as they look at each other. Along with closeup shots, the camera
conveys that Jimmy deeply admires Alex, as she is the sole focus of the shot. After his stare over
the camera has lingered for a while and he finally takes the picture, the camera angle cuts to a
high shot and the audience is pulled out of the moment. This sudden change confirms that
Jimmy was, at that moment, completely infatuated with Alex.

2. How does the use of sound effects establish a mood?
The sound effects of birds chirping and a gentle breeze creates a calm and harmonious mood,
which in turn reflects the nature of Jimmy and Alexs relationship.

3. How does music communicate to an audience?
The music fades into the scene as Alex stares down the camera; first as ominous sounding,
conveying that Jimmy may have not been expecting to see such beauty. As Jimmy continues to
stare into her eyes the music changes to warm and joyful, communicating that he has found
love and that it is natural and genuine.

4. How does structuring of time engage an audience?
The structure of time in this scene has been expanded by using a sequence of long shots.
This slowing down of time engages the audience as its conveying information about Jimmys
thoughts about Alex.

5. How does setting contribute to a scene?
The setting with lush green palm trees and peaceful inner-city location contributes to the scene
by reflecting the peaceful and natural nature of Jimmy and Alexs relationship. It contrasts to the
prior scenes of Jimmy working at the seedy locations in Kings Cross, further highlighting the
natural and harmonious scene we see now.

6. How does acting enhance the narrative?
As we watch Jimmy (Heath Ledger) timidly peer over the camera at Alex (Rose Byrne), it
conveys that he is in awe of what he sees - as if he checking to see if its real. Alexs laugh is
slightly nervous, and she almost forgets to give Jimmy her number. This subtle acting through
body language silently conveys that they are attracted to each other. It is this attraction that
ultimately causes Jimmy to lose the money and send him on a journey.

7. How does lighting contribute to the mood or atmosphere?
The warm and natural light casts a flattering tone on the face of Alex, emphasizing the beauty
Jimmy sees in her. The warm light conveys a uplifting a positive mood, and reflects the romantic
atmosphere between Jimmy and Alex.

8. How does cause and effect in this sequence contribute to the narrative as a whole?
Because Jimmy met and became attracted to Alex, it caused him to become distracted on the
beach and lead to him losing the money (effect). This is a pivotal point in the narrative, as it
sends Jimmy on a journey to grow in maturity and wisdom. Also in the scene he asks Alex if he
could see the photos after theyre developed (cause) giving them a reason to see each other
again (effect). This ultimately leads to Jimmy getting caught by Pando.

9. How does the storyline of Jimmy and Alexs romance relate to the main storyline of
Jimmys situation with Pando?
Jimmy character begins as one looking for a better life; he is tired of working at the stripclub and
knows he needs to get out. He believes that its Pando that will offer him this better life. Once he
has met Alex however, he finds that she brings him comfort and love - something Pando cannot
offer. Ultimately he realises Pando represents a dark and fearful life, while Alex represents a
bright future and a loving relationship. In the end he chooses a life with Alex and leaves Pando.

10. List 5 adjectives to describe the music in this sequence.
Warm
Calm
Beautiful
Uplifting
Positive