The art of cinematography has evolved to include advanced techniques such as fluid transitions that manipulate viewer expectations and create intricate visual storytelling. Transitions can be used to establish time passage, connect scenes, reveal character development, and build tension.
When transition sequences are lengthy and fluid, they alter the viewer's emotional state by creating a sense of continuity or disruption. This article will explore how extended sequences of fluid movement reshape the viewer's emotional expectations through examples from film history.
Let's examine the use of fluid transitions in "Citizen Kane." The opening shot is an extreme close-up of Charles Foster Kane's face as he sits in his office chair, staring into space. After several seconds, the camera pulls back slowly to reveal the entire room and then pans across to the desk. As the camera moves, we hear a voiceover narration describing Kane's rise to power. The fluid motion creates a feeling of continuity, drawing viewers into the world of the movie without breaking their focus. By the time the scene ends, viewers have become invested in the story and its protagonist.
Consider the famous tracking shot in "Goodfellas" where Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) walks into a nightclub. The camera follows him as he enters, passes other patrons, orders a drink, and meets with friends at the bar. The fluid motion continues for over three minutes before cutting away to another scene. During this time, we see Henry interacting with various characters, and the tracking shot creates a sense of intimacy between the viewer and the character. The audience becomes immersed in the world of the mafia, understanding the social dynamics and the complex relationships between people.
The use of fluid transition shots can also create tension and suspense. In "Pulp Fiction," a scene begins with the camera following Jules Winnfield (Samuel L. Jackson) and Vincent Vega (John Travolta) on a mission. They enter a house, kill several men, and exit. Then, the camera tracks them as they walk down the street while discussing the events that occurred. The fluid movement creates an intense moment, building anticipation for what will happen next. At one point, the camera stops briefly to show a man walking towards them from behind, increasing the tension even further. This technique allows filmmakers to build excitement and keep audiences engaged.
Fluid transitions can be used to explore themes of sex and sexuality. In "Blue is the Warmest Color," the main character Adele (Adèle Exarchopoulos) has a passionate love affair with Emma (Léa Seydoux). The camera follows the two women through their relationship, capturing their intimate moments together. As they become closer, the camera moves more slowly, creating a sense of closeness and tenderness.
When their relationship falls apart, the fluid motion speeds up, reflecting the emotional dissonance between the characters. Through this device, viewers experience the ups and downs of the characters' journey.
Extended sequences of fluid transitions reshape viewer expectations by establishing continuity or disruption, immersing them in the story, building tension, and exploring themes of sex and sexuality. These techniques are powerful tools for cinematographers who want to create memorable visual storytelling experiences. By understanding how these shots work, filmmakers can harness their power to tell compelling stories and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
How do extended sequences of fluid transition movements reshape the viewer's emotional expectations?
Although it is difficult to pinpoint exactly how extended sequences of fluid transition movements shape the viewers' emotions, research suggests that viewers are likely to form an attachment with the characters onscreen over time as they become more familiar with their movement patterns. In other words, viewers may develop a sense of comfort or security from watching a character move smoothly from one location to another, and this may lead them to feel emotionally invested in the character's story.