Film Viewing Practice Essay "Agent Carter"

 

The film “Agent Carter" was directed by Louis D'Esposito and demonstrates a variety of different types of camera shots, editing, sound effects, and mise-en-scene throughout the short clip we watched of the film. Not only does viewing the film, but also writing about it helps me better understand the variety of different technical elements used in film because I was able to observe actual real examples of the film aspects we’ve been studying and learning. 

 

To begin with, we have the different types of camera shots and angles used throughout the film. In the beginning of the film there were some close up shots of Peggy and Steve. It then transitions  into an establishing shot that shows New York, which helps set the scene and show the pass in time along with the difference in time period compared to what we had just seen. Additionally, the film uses an over the shoulder shot when Peggy is working at her desk and talking to two men. Moreover, the short clip from the film utilizes different close up shots when Peggy is fighting the two men. It then quickly cuts to several shots of her attacking the men at different angles. This gives a quick intense effect on the viewer and helps bring the film tol life and make it seem real. 

Another important aspect that is a vital contributor to the film is the different editing techniques present throughout the clip. I noticed a lot of simultaneity especially in the beginning, when we see Peggy and Steve both doing different things, but because of  the sound you can tell it is happening at the same time just in different locations. I also noticed a little bit of symbolism in regards to Steve, because when Peggy sees a photo of him she becomes determined to take action even though her boss doesn’t think she needs to be sent out.

The film clip also shows many different types of sound techniques. The film starts with a non-diegetic sound when music is playing, and a more non-diegetic sound also plays when Peggy is looking at the photo of Steve. The music is a little somber to help the viewers better understand how Peggy is feeling, but it changes to more intense music when Peggy goes out on a mission, and then the mood is changed. Furthemore, there are several diegetic sounds used  because the characters talk with each other, but that is a given in this type of film. The sound is really interesting because it helps the viewers better feel the emotions Peggy is feeling.

The last technical element contributing to  the film is mise-en-scene. The mise-en-scene focuses on Peggy and the lighting. Both the low key lighting and the high key lighting around Peggy help create different effects and affect the way the viewer feels in each shot. The high key lighting gives the audience a  feel better about Peggy and her situation; in contrast the low key lighting makes Peggy's situation seem and feel more gloomy.

In conclusion, putting together these different elements of film helps set a better example for not only me, but my classmates as well to continue working on our films in this class. The short clip about Agent Carter utilizes a variety of  different camera shots, editing techniques, sound clips and mise-en-scene to better engage the audience and help them understand the emotion conveyed throughout the film.