Deconstruction of "Trainspotting"

The opening scene introduces all the character and sets the scene for the rest of the film. As the film begins we track Renton and Spud as they run down a high street away from policemen. As they do so, the camera jump cuts to a lower shot, closer to the floor, to show items falling from the two men. This informs the audience that both men are rebellious. Throughout the opening the camera shots are all quite long as they show the action as they both run. As the action increases the camera positions adjust and the jump cuts are quicker. This is synchronous with the pace of action and keeps the speed of action. Long shots are used to show the location and mise en scene. A long shot is used as Spud runs down through the tunnel, this show the run down, darker area that they live in. Another long shot is used when Renton is in his flat. From this shot we can see the environment that the character is used to and creates an atmosphere for the film. The majority of the shots track the character which makes the audience feel more involved. Also, there is a large about of jump cuts in the film as it creates a sense of realism and keeps it simple.

Sound is a very important part of the sequence. The voiceover heard in the opening scene is asynchronous to the action which is taking place. The list of things which you should ‘choose’, and the fact that he swears within what is being said, compared to the characters being shown makes the audience think that this is obviously a wish list which is support by the footage that follows. The soundtrack to the film is very important. Each of the tracks played in the film are synchronous for the action and also very up to date for when the film was made. All of these songs are also in keeping with the target audience age and lifestyles.

Mise en scene is also very key to the entire film. However, this first scene needed to set the scene for the rest of the film. The clothing that the characters are wearing

"Nottinghill" Analysis

“Nottinghill” was a huge hit in 1999 and starred two of the most desired actors. After watching the film in greater depth it was clear what representation of British men was being portrayed.

The main male character in the film is played by, well known actor, Hugh Grant. This initial impression of his character, Will Thacker, is the stereotypical English gentleman. The mise en scene shows the attitude of Will Thacker in many different ways. The clothes that Thacker wears is smart casual and creates a relaxed, business feel to his character. Thacker wears smart trousers, a shirt with the top button undone, no tie, and a jacket over his shoulder. Throughout the movie, Will is always seen in similar clothing. The setting of the film, Nottinghill, instantly informs the audience that it is middle to high class area and creates social status.

“Heart-throb” and “dreamy” are just two of the many words used to describe Hugh Grant. The handsome actor immediately attracts female attention despite his messy nature, displayed through his home and work place. Another male character within the film is Will’s flat mate – Spike. Spike is revealed as very childish. This is done through his clothing, actions and speech. All of his outfits are very juvenile, big logos or just really outrageous. But Spike doesn’t seem to be that bothered by his clothing or attitude – for example, due to lack of clean clothes, Spike goes to Will’s wardrobe. Spike then goes for breakfast and a cigarette in a dive suit. Spike is unaware of his abnormal outfit and very messy and “slob” way of living, as he taps his cigarette ash into the kitchen sink.

The camera work used throughout the film creates more of a connection between the character and the audience. The most common shot of Will Thacker is central framing. This shows his importance within the movie. Also, many close-ups, eye-level shots and tracking are used to create emotion, connection and displays self deprecation. Contrasting camera shots are used for Spike. The rule of thirds is always used doe Spike – he is always positioned on a third and is never centrally framed. This contrasts with the main character and helps create his personality. Whenever Spike is in the scene he is always in the frame. The shots of Spike are always medium or long shots as it shows his outfits and actions, therefore creating humour in his presence.
Sound is also a key part of the movie. When Will Thacker is talking there is a low key, soft/calm music which reinforces that he’s easy going. Voice over is often used with Thacker’s voice – this shows he doesn’t like confrontation, which is supported by the way he removes himself from situations [for example the paparazzi scene]. All the diegetic sounds create a sence of realise. Will Thacker has a typical estuary English accent whereas, in contrast, Spike has a Welsh accent which is used to create humour.

Another film which represents British men is “Love Actually”. Both of the movies were written by Richard Curtis and funded by Universal Pictures. The estimated budgets for the two movies were £30million for “Love Actually” and $42million for “Nottinghill”. However, both of the movies were extremely successful all over the world and scrapped in a massive $600million combined. Because of the film being American funded, they had a large say in how the characters were portrayed as they also wanted the movie to be a huge hit in America. The representation of British men is emphasised in these two films as “typical British gentlemen” so that everyone who views the movie can connect with the character.

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