Wednesday, 27 November 2013

Dawn of the Dead (1978) first image analysis


In Dawn of the Dead (1978), this scene was included to represent the conventional horror theme of sex and the taboo. Having just slept together, the shot connotes Peter’s failure as a male through the bored, lifeless expression that both characters are illustrating. The cinematography helps to convey this, a slow zoom out from the scene and a slow, non-diegetic soundtrack plays creating tension and portrays the awkward, frustrated, depressed feelings that are being evoked. In the 1970’s, depression was an issue that many suffered from due to the Vietnam War and racism in society.

When focusing on the auteur theory by Andrew Sarris, George A. Romero reflects contextual issues through his films and portrays racism, political satire and character stereotypes profoundly. The idea of flipping character stereotypes is portrayed in this shot, having Fran sit up, resting her elbow on her leg and openly revealing her body whilst Stephen lies down and sulks.

When attacking the idea of consumerism, George A. Romero illustrates this through this scene. Having everything they could have wished for and more, the characters become tired of the same routine and being able to get everything they want for free.


No comments:

Post a Comment