1. What CAN shapes within the frame mean? A shape, such as a circle or a square, can carry a specific meaning within the frame, depending on context and character.

2. Think of your favorite movie… Is there a particular wardrobe element or shape within the frame that you associate with the main character (s)? Based on the plot, what might it signify? On a sheet of paper, write today’s date and “Shapes in Film.” Then, write about your favorite film for five minutes, considering shapes you may remember from the film.

3. Associations/Connotations of a Round shape?

4. Round Shapes in film - Often suggest the indirect, passive, childlike, soothing, natural, safe and flexible.

5. Associations/Connotations of Square shapes in film?

6. Square Shapes -Imply directness. Can suggest an ordered, rigid, linear world that is unnatural (possibly even industrial? Or futuristic?)

7. Associations/Connotations of a Triangle?

8. Triangle -Considered aggressive and dynamic.

9. Are these “rules” that always hold true? No. Sometimes new associations may be created depending on the needs of a story. Still, these forms often hold true.

10. Practical use? A director might give competing shapes to two characters to symbolize and reinforce who they are within the story.

11. An Exercise: Two characters Tom: Male, 30’s, single, shy, good with numbers, works at a bank, plays an instrument. Enjoys outdoor sports. Goes on dates, but they rarely work out. Thinks he wants to settle down, but somehow it’s just not working out. Today, work with a partner in- class. What kinds of shapes would you put in his environment to reflect his personality? Marissa: Female, late 20’s, single, a little unorganized, also plays an instrument, works at an L.A.Fitness as a personal trainer. Meets lots of people, but still doesn’t seem to meet the right guy. More than anything, dreams of becoming a mom someday. What kinds of shapes would you put in her environment to reflect her personality? Next, …..

12. They meet… -Where? -How? Are they attracted? Do the shapes within the frame suggest anything about the success or failure of their meeting?