Narrative and Structure:
* Exposition: The introduction of the setting, characters, and basic conflict.
* Example: The opening scenes of "Star Wars" introduce the desert planet Tatooine, the characters Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, and the conflict between the Empire and the Rebellion.
* Rising Action: The series of events that build tension and lead to the climax.
* Example: In "The Shawshank Redemption," the rising action includes Andy's unjust imprisonment, his attempts to survive, and his developing friendship with Red.
* Climax: The point of highest tension and turning point in the story.
* Example: In "The Godfather," the climax is the assassination of Don Vito Corleone, which sets off a chain of events leading to the rise of Michael.
* Falling Action: The events that occur after the climax, often resolving the conflict.
* Example: In "Titanic," the falling action includes the sinking of the ship and the aftermath of the tragedy.
* Resolution: The conclusion of the story, where all loose ends are tied up.
* Example: In "The Lord of the Rings," the resolution occurs when the One Ring is destroyed and peace is restored to Middle-earth.
* Foreshadowing: Hints or clues about events that will happen later in the story.
* Example: In "Psycho," the shower scene is foreshadowed by the birds circling above the house earlier in the film.
* Flashback: A scene that takes place before the present story.
* Example: The film "Pulp Fiction" uses flashbacks to tell its story in a non-linear way.
* Deus Ex Machina: A sudden and unexpected event that resolves the conflict, often seen as an artificial solution.
* Example: In "The Matrix," Neo's sudden ability to control the Matrix can be seen as a Deus Ex Machina.
Character and Theme:
* Protagonist: The main character of the story.
* Example: The protagonist of "The Lion King" is Simba.
* Antagonist: The character who opposes the protagonist.
* Example: The antagonist of "The Lion King" is Scar.
* Dynamic Character: A character who undergoes significant change throughout the story.
* Example: In "Gone with the Wind," Scarlett O'Hara transforms from a spoiled Southern belle to a strong and independent woman.
* Static Character: A character who remains essentially the same throughout the story.
* Example: In "The Wizard of Oz," the Scarecrow remains a clueless, but well-meaning, character.
* Theme: The underlying message or idea explored in the story.
* Example: The theme of "To Kill a Mockingbird" is prejudice and injustice.
Literary Devices:
* Symbolism: The use of objects, characters, or events to represent abstract ideas.
* Example: The green light at the end of Daisy's dock in "The Great Gatsby" symbolizes Gatsby's unattainable dream.
* Metaphor: A comparison between two unlike things that does not use "like" or "as."
* Example: In "The Godfather," Michael Corleone is metaphorically compared to a shark, a symbol of ruthlessness and ambition.
* Simile: A comparison between two unlike things that uses "like" or "as."
* Example: In "The Shawshank Redemption," Red describes himself as "like a bird in a cage."
* Irony: A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens.
* Example: The irony in "The Sixth Sense" is that the child psychologist, Malcolm Crowe, is unable to help his patient because he is a ghost himself.
* Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.
* Example: "The Shining" has alliteration in its title, creating a sense of mystery and dread.
Film Techniques:
* Mise-en-scène: The arrangement of elements within the frame of a shot, including lighting, costumes, and sets.
* Example: The use of bright lighting and colorful costumes in "La La Land" creates a whimsical and optimistic atmosphere.
* Cinematography: The art of filming, including camera angles, movement, and editing.
* Example: The use of long takes in "Touch of Evil" creates a sense of suspense and realism.
* Editing: The process of putting together different shots to create a cohesive narrative.
* Example: The rapid editing in action sequences in "The Matrix" creates a sense of speed and excitement.
* Sound Design: The use of sound to create mood, atmosphere, and meaning.
* Example: The use of silence in "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" creates a sense of tension and anticipation.
These are just a few examples of literary terms that can be applied to films. Film is a complex art form that draws on many different disciplines, including literature, theater, and music. By understanding these terms, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry of film and the many ways that filmmakers tell stories.