Monday, 7 December 2009
Camera work/cinematography
Over the shoulder shots and reverse shots are used in conversation opposed to viewing two characters at the same time. This is only used when the characters are travelling or not facing each other. It is also used when the lady and the knight are talking and there is a clear shot of Arthur in between looking at them. A low angle shot is used with the knight to show his power and a view of the castle is in the background which works well with the low angle shot. When Merlin is in the cellar and we see him looking at the shield a close up of his face is used so the audience can see his expression.
Mis en scene
The clothing, setting, props and scenery are all of a medieval theme and signify the time period. The British accents also signify the location and suggest that it is also a British TV drama. Characters such as the knights and the king wear brightly coloured clean cut clothing to signify their status, whereas Merlin wears dirty brown worn clothing which signifies his lower status as a servant. The women wear dress’ with long sleeves and long skirts but the necklines are low which signifies they are young and have some sex appeal.
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
Editing
Editing
The shots are put together quickly so the viewers don’t loose interest. They are also short takes so there is the illusion that time is moving quicker. The use of SFX suggests the programme has a large budget. Quick pass of time is also used frequently in the programme. A few examples of this are; in the cellar scene, Merlin is in the courtyard and the next shot is of him in the cellar, so we have missed out the time he took to get there. Another example of quick pass time is where we see Arthur getting ready for the tournament; a series of short takes is shown over a period of around 15 seconds each indicating the gradual change.
Monday, 30 November 2009
Merlin - Sound
Sound
The use of sound in this clip was mostly expressed through music. When the boy is in the armour room, tense music is used and gets louder and more aggressive the closer he gets to the snake shield, the music suddenly stops when the man stops him. When they are talking, dangerous and slightly mysterious music is played to signify that this man is a dark character. The music stops when the boy is dismissed and we know he is safe. In the montage of Arthur getting ready for battle, fast paced music is used to match the shots that are being shown which are also fast paced. As Arthur is walking along to the arena, we hear him approaching applause, which signifies he is headed towards a mass group of people. As the contenders fight fast action music is played to signify the danger and seriousness of the battle, the roaring spectators also signify the danger and competitiveness.
When we see the woman getting kissed on the hand, it signifies that she is a beautiful woman, only n the scene to be admired. Knights are also lined up to meet the woman because they are all fighting for her like she’s a trophy or an object.