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How to Analyze a Movie Scene

Analyzing a film scene is a wise way to grasp the ins and outs of filmmaking. Lots of decisions are made in the script and filmmaking process that turn words on a page into a palpitating scene. Analysis allows you to dissect the choices a director and writer made -- and understand how it fits into themes, styles and content that create the entire story. Watch the entire movie and/or read the entire script -- prior to scene analysis -- to give you a full perspective.

Things You'll Need

  • Script
  • Movie
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the intention of the scene. Ask why the scene is important to the film and what makes it important. Notice where the scene is located in the movie and if placement of this scene -- in context with the whole picture -- was a weak or strong choice.

    • 2

      Look for clarity in scene structure by identifying plot points -- or important story points that push the narrative ahead. Additionally, observe how the scene builds, where the climax of the scene takes place and how it resolves. See if the build, climax and resolution flow with the dialogue and character action of the scene.

    • 3

      Study the cinematic elements. Listen to the specific sounds and/or music in a scene. Observe the style of cinematography -- steady or handheld camera, for example -- and the colors in the scene to note if these filmmaking techniques enhance the mood and content of the scene.

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