convention of film which is blocking. Task 1. Picture! Picture! Look at each picture below. Then answer the questions that follow.
• What have you noticed in each picture?
• What are the positions of characters in each picture? • What feelings or emotions does each picture convey? • How do different positions of characters affect the mood in each picture? • Does blocking matter in pictures? How about in films? Blocking was originally a theater term that refers to the positioning and movement of the actors in the stage. An essential part of rehearsal, blocking is necessary for a smooth performance.
In cinema, camera and lights are added to the
equation. Blocking in a motion picture involves the precise synchrony and movement of the actors in relation to camera and lights. The director is the one responsible for blocking. He must guide the cast to accommodate his vision for the arrangement or composition of the frame. Sketch the Scene One efficient way to block actors and camera is to use drawings. Hand-drawn pictures are fine, although computers make the job easier. Floor plans and storyboards are often combined for a faster process but also to help the crew visualize everything needed for the shoot to happen.
Floor plans are used to design the layout of a scene with
actors and camera positions. Floor plans are quite convenient when shooting a scene with an elaborate setup. A number of actors and complicated camera movements (dollies, cranes)constitute a good definition of “elaborate setup.” Storyboards are also common. They are a collection of frames that tells the story visually. The frames illustrate the more important shots in the movie. Storyboards are quite convenient when the directors are explaining exactly what type of composition they desire. Attention to Body Language Deciding on the positions of the subject and camera are only the first and second steps of blocking. The third is body language - posture. A director must pay close attention to how actors use their bodies and what is signified by their postures and gestures. Quite regularly, professional directors instruct actors on how to move their hands and legs and eyes. In the frame above, you can see two actors with contrasting postures. Angelina Jolie, looks refined, elegant, sophisticated, impeccable, and holds herself straight, with air of nobility. Her back does not touch the chair. Her hands are held in front of her bosom – we can tell this is not comfortable. At the opposite end of the spectrum, you can see Johnny Depp’s gesture and posture - slouched in his chair, legs crossed, supporting his arms. He looks tired and uncouth. Therefore, keep in mind that a lot of information is conveyed by posture. Task 1. Is Blocking Important? What do you think is the importance of blocking in movies? Choose your partner and discuss your answer with him/her.