How to Analyze a Movie: A Step-by-Step Guide
Movies have become increasingly popular in the past few decades and for that reason, analyzing movies has become an important skill. Knowing how to analyze a movie from a critical perspective will not only give you an appreciation for the movie but also a deeper understanding of the art form itself. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a passionate film enthusiast, or just someone who wants to improve their writing, this step-by-step guide will teach you everything you need to know about analyzing any movie:
Step 1: Watch the Movie with an Open Mind
The first step to analyzing a movie is to watch it with an open mind. Avoid pre-judging the movie and don’t let any thoughts stray into the analysis until after you’ve seen the entire movie. Keep a notepad near you while you watch so that you can jot down any observations or scenes that particularly stand out.
Step 2: Understand the Overall Message
Once you’ve watched the movie all the way through, it’s time to focus on the overall message of the movie. Ask yourself, what is the purpose of the film? What message is the filmmaker trying to convey? If you’re having trouble discerning this, consider the themes of the movie, who the main character(s) are, and their actions throughout the movie. Consider the moral implications of the movie and the questions it will lead viewers to ponder.
Step 3: Analyze the Building Blocks
Once you’ve determined the overall message of the movie, you can begin to analyze the building blocks that make for a successful film. Take particular note of the cinematography, acting, sound design, and editing. While watching the movie, take notes on what you observe. Pay attention to the shot lengths, camera angles, and other visual elements, as well as the pacing of the movie. Also, take special note of important scenes, and why they are important.
Step 4: Review the Characters
To understand how a movie works, you need to review the characters. Take note of each character’s development and how it progresses the story. Examine the relationships between the characters and how they move the story along. Pay attention to any underlying emotions or motivations among the characters and dissect how they move the plot.
Step 5: Assess the Symbols and Imagery
When watching a movie, symbols and imagery may be used to help convey a message or a theme. Look for these elements when analyzing a movie. Take note of any recurring images, sounds, or motifs. Also, consider the historical and cultural elements at play in the movie.
Step 6: Consider the Director’s Craft
Now that you’ve analyzed all of the separate components, think about the overall craft of the director. How did the filmmaker use all of the individual elements to create an effective piece of art? How do all of the parts work towards a cohesive end? Pay particular attention to any scene transitions and how one scene sets up the next.
Step 7: Compare and Contrast
One final step in the analysis process is to compare the movie to other films or pieces of art. Consider how the movie’s message is unique and how it builds off or flips the tropes of similar films. This will help you determine how the movie stands out and develops its own unique identity.
Analyzing a movie can be an extremely rewarding experience. Not only will it give you insight into the art form, but you’ll be able to hone your writing skills as well. Just remember, while analyzing a movie take notes throughout, and use these seven steps as a guide in your exploration. With enough practice, you’ll be able to competently break down any movie with ease!