Question 1

Which of the following would be considered an antirealist element in the realist film Beasts of the Southern Wild?

Accepted Answer

The giant horned beasts encased inside icebergs are a fantastical element that goes beyond realistic representation, making it an antirealist element.

Question 2

What is meant by "cinematic language"?

Accepted Answer

Cinematic language refers to the accepted systems, methods, or conventions by which movies communicate with the viewer. It includes elements such as camera angles, lighting, sound, and editing techniques that are used to convey meaning and create a specific emotional response in the audience.

Question 3

Which of the following demonstrates the way a filmmaker can employ both convention and innovation?

Accepted Answer

Choosing to shoot a scene in a traditional style while using unconventional narrative techniques can demonstrate how a filmmaker can employ both convention and innovation. By doing so, the filmmaker is still using a familiar technique, making the scene easy for the audience to understand, while also challenging the norm with the narrative approach.

Question 4

In order for viewers to identify with Donnie Darko's struggle to navigate the bizarre cosmic quest thrust upon him, the filmmakers portray his normal world and mundane existence through

Accepted Answer

Realism portrays the world and events as they actually are without any romanticized or idealized interpretation, which is what the filmmakers used to portray Donnie's normal world and mundane existence. This helps viewers identify with Donnie's struggle as they can relate to his real-life experiences before he gets caught up in the cosmic quest.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT an example of cinematic verisimilitude?

Accepted Answer

Cinematic verisimilitude refers to a film's ability to create a believable and consistent world on screen. Option E describes a film that is not believable, so it does not demonstrate cinematic verisimilitude. Options A, B, C, and D all show examples of films that use cinematic verisimilitude to create believable worlds, characters, and situations on screen.

Question 6

Why can it be said that realism in movies is a kind of illusion?

Accepted Answer

Realism in movies can be seen as an illusion because no matter how closely it resembles reality, there is always a degree of mediation involved, whether it be through cameras, editing, or other techniques used to create the film. Therefore, it can never truly capture reality in its pure form.

Question 7

The parallel action sequence that alternates between shots of a community talent show and the burning down of a mansion in Donnie Darko compels viewers to perceive what meaningful connections in these apparent contrasts?

Accepted Answer

The answer of The parallel action sequence that alternates between...

Question 8

Audiences' expectations in regard to "reality"

Accepted Answer

Audience expectations of "reality" are shaped by cultural norms and values that evolve over time, as well as differences across societies. Therefore, these expectations are not fixed and may differ across regions, generations and social groups.

Question 9

How does The Shape of Water employ cinematic verisimilitude?

Accepted Answer

The Shape of Water employs cinematic verisimilitude by creating an emotionally compelling and believable romance between the cleaning woman and the water creature, allowing the audience to become invested in their relationship despite the fantastical elements.

Question 10

Antirealism is defined as an interest in or concern for

Accepted Answer

Antirealism is a rejection of realism or the belief in representing things as they actually are. Instead, it focuses on speculative and fantastic elements, often used as a way to critique or question the real world.

Question 11

What are expectations associated with realistic characters?

Accepted Answer

Realistic characters are expected to behave in ways that are consistent with real people, their emotions, motivations, and decisions should be logical and make sense within the context of the story. This makes it easier for audiences to relate to and empathize with the characters. The other options (B, C, D, E) are either unrealistic or limiting expectations that are not necessarily associated with realistic characters.

Question 12

The conventions of cinematic language represent a sort of ________ between the filmmaker and the audience about the mediating element between them: the shot.

Accepted Answer

The word "conventions" implies a set of agreed-upon rules or norms. Therefore, the most appropriate option would be "agreement" between the filmmaker and the audience about the use of cinematic language and the shot as the mediating element. The other options do not reflect the collaborative and communicative nature of cinematic language.

Question 13

Why do cinematic conventions represent a certain agreement between the filmmaker and the audience?

Accepted Answer

Cinematic conventions are a set of agreed-upon techniques and methods that filmmakers use to tell stories on screen. They serve as a common language between the filmmaker and the audience, allowing for a shared understanding of how narrative, cinematography, sound, and other elements work together to shape the cinematic experience. While conventions can be used in familiar ways, they can also be reimagined or subverted to create new and unexpected effects.

Question 14

What is the definition of "verisimilitude"?

Accepted Answer

Verisimilitude refers to the appearance of being true or real, regardless of whether or not it is an accurate portrayal of the world we live in. It is about creating a convincing and believable depiction of reality, rather than an exact duplication.

Question 15

Films that succeed in seeming verisimilar across cultures and generations often

Accepted Answer

Films that are able to appeal to different cultures and generations by appearing realistic and believable often achieve critical and popular success, leading to their designation as "timeless" films.

Question 16

Frank, the grotesque bunny figure in Donnie Darko, is an example of

Accepted Answer

Frank represents a blend of realism and antirealism, as he appears in a realistic setting but embodies surreal and fantastical elements that challenge the perception of reality.

Question 17

Which of the following demonstrates how cinematic language becomes individuated and complex?

Accepted Answer

Juxtaposing shots in particular contexts, creating scenes and sequences, demonstrates how cinematic language becomes individuated and complex. By pairing shots with diverse composition, pacing, and tone, filmmakers express complex relationships, themes, and emotions. This type of cinematic language allows for a layered and nuanced exploration of storytelling.

Question 18

In the first high school scene in Donnie Darko, the relentlessly moving camera shifting between "normal," fast, and slow motion serves as a visual representation of which of the following concepts?

Accepted Answer

The shifting between "normal," fast, and slow motion serves as a visual representation of the fluid nature of time in Donnie Darko. The film explores the concept of time travel and the idea that time is not a rigid, linear construct.

Question 19

Donnie Darko uses a simple ABABAB shot/reverse-shot pattern in one driving scene ultimately to achieve what dramatic effect?

Accepted Answer

The simple ABABAB shot/reverse-shot pattern in the driving scene is used to create a sense of normalcy and familiarity before the sudden and shocking event that occurs, which is a key element in creating the film's overall tone of mystery and suspense.

Question 20

What accounted for Donnie Darko's increased popularity on VHS and DVD after being a box office dud in 2001?

Accepted Answer

The film "Donnie Darko" gained a cult following through repeated viewings on VHS and DVD, as audiences appreciated its complex narrative and themes, leading to increased popularity despite its initial box office failure.

Quiz 2: Principles of Film Form