Verisimilitude (“similar to truth”) is the semblance and believability of reality within a fictional work. It is the quality that makes a narrative, whether in literature or film, appear true to life, believable, and convincing to the audience, even within fictional or fantastical contexts. Achieving verisimilitude involves consistent internal logic, relatable emotions, and plausible scenarios,… Continue reading What is Verisimilitude in Film? Definition, Types & Examples.
film theory
What is Style in Film? From Auteur to Genre to Movements
When we talk about style in film, we mean the distinctive techniques and methods screenwriters and directors use to shape a film’s unique aesthetic and expressive qualities. Style is often connected to the auteur concept and includes choices such as cinematography, editing, mise-en-scène, sound, and narrative techniques (style of writing). Style and the Auteur Style… Continue reading What is Style in Film? From Auteur to Genre to Movements
Connotation in Film Explained. Signs, Symbols & Semiotics.
Connotation is the secondary, often cultural or emotional, meanings that images, sounds, and sequences convey beyond their literal or denotative meanings. It involves the implicit messages and associations filmmakers create through various cinematic techniques. Connotation is a fundamental concept in film semiotics, which is the study of signs and symbols in film and how they… Continue reading Connotation in Film Explained. Signs, Symbols & Semiotics.
What is Escapism? How Films Make Us Forget Ourselves
Definition: Escapism is a psychological concept that refers to the inclination to distract oneself from the realities of life by engaging in activities or behaviors that provide a temporary sense of relief or pleasure. At its core, escapism involves seeking mental diversion from daily life’s demands, pressures, or unpleasant aspects. This can manifest in various… Continue reading What is Escapism? How Films Make Us Forget Ourselves
L’acousmêtre: Meaning, Definition & Examples from Film
Definition: The term “acousmêtre” was popularized by French film theorist Michel Chion and refers to a specific type of sound presence, typically a voice that emanates from an unseen source within the film’s narrative space. The concept is particularly significant in studying film sound and how audio can influence the audience’s perception and imagination. L’acousmêtre… Continue reading L’acousmêtre: Meaning, Definition & Examples from Film
Hyperbole: Definition and Examples from Film and Literature
Definition: A hyperbole is a figure of speech exaggerating ideas for emphasis. It’s a deliberate and obvious exaggeration used to create humor or to emphasize a particular point. Hyperboles are not meant to be taken literally; rather, they convey an emotional tone or the strength of an experience. Hyperbole is common in everyday English but… Continue reading Hyperbole: Definition and Examples from Film and Literature
What Is A MacGuffin? Definition & Examples
A ‘MacGuffin’ is a plot device used in storytelling. It often takes the form of an object, goal, or other element that drives the narrative forward. The characters typically desire it, but its specific nature may be vague or unimportant. The term “MacGuffin” was coined by filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock to describe a plot device that… Continue reading What Is A MacGuffin? Definition & Examples
What is a Protagonist vs. Main Character? The Difference Explained
The protagonist is the “hero” who moves the plot forward while the main character experiences the plot. As the audience, we experience the plot driven by the protagonist through the main character(s). Knowing what these terms mean is essential to good writing, building solid character arcs, and understanding what makes a compelling story. What Is… Continue reading What is a Protagonist vs. Main Character? The Difference Explained