Film Classification Unit 1

Styles Realism Classicism Formalism

Realism Films that are lifelike with believable locations and details and a minimum of distorted elements Try to present the world as unmanipulated, an objective mirror of the actual world

Formalism A style of film that deliberately distorts raw materials so that no one would mistake a manipulated image of an object or event for the real thing.

Classicism An intermediate style that avoids the extremes of realism and formalism Most classical films lean one way or another

Three Types Documentary Avant-Garde Fiction Films

Documentary A film that attempts to display life as-it-really- is, without manipulation, to present a particular viewpoint.

Avant-Garde Meaning “in the front of the ranks” Artists whose works are characterized by an unconventional daring and by obscure, controversial, or highly personal ideas.

Fiction Films Films that fall between the two types of films, with several aspects of both. Most films are fiction films.

Examples Realism—The Pursuit of Happyness Formalism—The Wizard of Oz Classicism—The Notebook

Movie Classification Chart Documentary RealismClassicism Formalism Avant-Garde FICTION

Realistic vs. Formalistic Directing A Realistic director tends to focus more on content. A Formalistic director tends to focus more on manipulation. He or she is given credit for the film.