Wednesday, 8 July 2015

'The Fault in our Stars' film

At the beginning of the scene an establishing shot is used showing the sky with stars in. This camera shot sets the scene and relates to the title of the film and also the trailer as the trailer begins with this same shot. Another shot used immediately after that is also in the trailer, is a birds eye view close up shot of the main protagonist, Hazel, lying on the ground. The way it is shown immediately after the establishing shot suggests Hazel is lying under the stars which connotes a peaceful, but deep thinking atmosphere.

A non-diegetic sound of a narrative is used by the main protagonist near the start of the film. After a scene in the doctors talking about how Hazels mum thinks she has depression, the voice over says ‘depression is not a side effect of cancer, it is a side effect of dying. Which is whats happening to me.’ This non-diegetic sound gives context of what the film is about and extra information about the protagonist.

Diegetic sound is used through the use of dialogue when Hazel’s mum says ‘make some friends.’ Immediately after this the shot shows Hazel bumping into a new character, Augustus. A shot-reverse-shot is used at a fast speed to connote that there is a connection between these 2 characters. This part of the film was also used in the trailer suggesting it is a significant part as it is when the 2 main protagonists first meet. 

Diegetic sound is used through dialogue as Hazel is explaining to Augustus her ‘cancer story.’ A sound bridge is used as this dialogue changes into non-diegetic sound as a scene is edited in to create a flashback. This editing shows shots of Hazel as a child in hospital, with cancer. This in addition to the sound being used gives us more information on the main protagonist; how she has lived with cancer her whole life etc.

The mise-en-scene of the actions and body language of Hazel shows how she is interested in Augustus after spending time with him. She is constantly checking her phone and to further portray this, diegetic sound is used when Hazel says to her mum ‘it not like I’m waiting for him to call.’

Editing is used to portray Hazel and Augustus texting each other; the texts are typed on the screen with a non-diegetic typing sound. This engages the audience to ensure they read the texts to gain the information from the film.

When Augustus is telling Hazel how they are going to Amsterdam, a close up is used to show Hazel’s emotions which connote her happiness. There is also sound used to help portray this; diegetic sound of Hazel saying ‘thank you’ sounding very grateful and non-diegetic sound of happy music to create an atmosphere. The mise-en-scene also connotes their happiness and excitement as there is a shot of Hazel hugging Augustus. In contrast to this, immediately after, a black screen has been edited in which connotes disappointment and negativity. In addition to this, non-diegetic sound of a voice over is used as Hazel says ‘but then this happened.’ The black screen puts emphasis on this to show an anti climax and to prepare the audience for bad news. Editing is then used to show a scene of Hazel being rushed to hospital; the editing is used to put the shots in slow motion which emphasises them and gives the audience time to reflect and empathise. 

A zoom out shot is used on the character of Augustus waiting for Hazel at the hospital. The zoom enables the audience to empathise with the characters feelings as it enables us to see the mise-en-scene of his body language and facial expressions in which he looks upset and worried.

When the two main protagonists meet up before they go out for dinner, an over the shoulder shot is used on top of a shot-reverse-shot to suggest the characters are looking at each other. The mise-en-scene of their facial expressions shows smiles on their faces, and smart clothing suggesting a romantic meal. The non-diegetic sound of romantic music also contributes to the romantic atmosphere. All of this again shows the connection between the two characters and connotes love. 

A pan shot is used to show the entire restaurant. This sets the scene and looks very romantic again connoting love. This shot is also used in the trailer suggesting it is an important part of the fim. 

A close up camera shot is used on the two main protagonists kissing. At the same time non-diegetic sound of a voice over is used. Hazel says ‘I fell in love with him the way you fall asleep, slowly then all at once.’ This is used with the close up shot to suggest this moment was the ‘all at once.’


An establishing camera shot is used so the audience can clearly see the two protagonists walking towards each other; one in a wheelchair and once with an oxygen tank. At the same time as this shot, non-diegetic sound of sad music is playing to create an emotional atmosphere. This allows the audience to empathise with the characters and reminds us that they are both ill but also have each other to help them through it.

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