FILM
Fundamentals and Application
Film
• Nwanwene (2002) defines film as a series of motionless images projected onto a screen so fast as to
create in the mind of anyone watching the screen an impression of continuous motion. Such images are
projected by light shining through a corresponding series of images arranged on a continuous band of
flexible material.
Video
• Video is usually referred to as the visual part of television. It is something that has been recorded on
videotape, especially a movie or music performance. Video is described as a cold medium due to its clinical
interpretation of life. Picture and sound are converted into digital data or analog tape.
Cinema
• Cinema is largely attributed to a movie theatre. Professionally however, cinema refers to the movie
industry or the business of making movies. Moura (2012) asserts that cinema, or motion picture, is the art
of moving images; a visual medium that tells stories and exposes reality. This therefore implies that
cinemas are moving picture or the process of film making.
TYPES OF FILMS
• Feature Films
These films are manipulated, organized and not merely based on reality, but on the subjective imagination
of the film director. Feature film producers emphasize aesthetics in the production.
Examples of Feature Films: ❖ Epic films
❖ Action films ❖ Horror films
❖ Adventure films ❖ Musical dance films
❖ Animated films ❖ Romantic films
❖ Comedy films ❖ Science fiction films
• Documentary Films
Documentary films portray more ofreality than subjective imagination. In effect, the producers do not
introduce lighting to deceive the audience. Whatever one sees in the film is exactly how it is in reality.
Examples of Documentary Films
❖ Independence day documentation Historical events (such as Civil War, Jazz, Baseball, or
World War II, etc.)
❖ Biographic film
❖ Well known events
❖ Concerts
❖ A compilation film of collected footage from government sources
❖ An examination of a specific subject area (e.g., nature- or Science-related themes).
• Avante-Garde Films
Avant-garde (AG) films popularly known as experimental films portray the taboos of the society. The films
manipulate things to show reality though what they tend to emphasize is what the society does not cherish -
for example pornographic films (Nwanwene, 2002).
As the word “experimental” suggests, this type of movie is trying something new or different.
The vast majority of avant-garde films are not screened in theatres, aired on TV, or sold in discs – they are
not mainstreamed and have no commercial life whatsoever.
• Experimental Film
Characteristics of Experimental Films
1. Non-linear or Absence of Narrative
These films often forgo traditional storytelling, focusing instead on abstract concepts or visual experiences.
2. Innovative Visual Techniques
Filmmakers employ methods such as out-of-focus imagery, painting or scratching directly on film, and
rapid editing to create unique visual aesthetics.
3. Asynchronous or No Soundtrack
Sound in experimental films may not align with the visuals, or there may be no sound at all, challenging
conventional audio-visual synchronization.
4. Low-Budget, Independent Production
Typically self-financed or supported by small grants, these films are often produced with minimal crews,
allowing for greater creative freedom.
5. Emphasis on Artistic Expression
The primary goal is to convey the personal vision of the filmmaker or to explore new technological
possibilities, rather than to entertain or generate revenue.
6. Integration with Other Art Forms
Experimental films frequently intersect with disciplines like painting, dance, literature, and poetry,
reflecting a broader artistic exploration.
7. Oppositional Stance to Mainstream Culture
Many experimental films challenge conventional norms and practices, offering alternative perspectives to
dominant cultural narratives.
Difference Between Experimental Film and Surrealist Film
Storyboard
A storyboard is a visual representation of a film, video, or animation, consisting of a series of illustrated
panels arranged in sequence. It serves as a blueprint for the production, outlining key shots, camera
movements, and transitions.
Key Features:
1. Frames or Panels - Drawn images (hand-
drawn or digital) that depict each scene. Uses:
2. Shot Descriptions - Brief notes explaining 1. Helps visualize the film before production.
camera angles, movements, and action. 2. Serves as a guide for directors,
3. Dialogue & Sound - Any spoken lines or cinematographers, and editors.
important sound effects. 3. Saves time by organizing scenes in advance.
4. Transitions & Timing - How shots will flow from
one to another.
