( Definition of Film (Film as an art form)

FILM (art form)

 Also called a movie or a motion picture
 A series of still photographs on film projected onto a screen using light in rapid
succession.
 It tells a story and convey emotions
 Unique form of art that combines visual and auditory elements
https://www.britannica.com/art/film

(Define Art for Art’s )

ART FOR ART’S SAKE (theme)
 Taken from the French term "l'art pour l'art" (Art for Art's Sake)
 Emerged in the 19th century
 Key figures associated with this movement include:
1. Benjamin Constant (Swiss-French writer and philosopher) and Victor Cousin
(French philosopher and historian) – coined the phrase
2. Théophile Gautier (French poet, novelist, and critic) – popularized the idea
3. James Abbott McNeill Whistler (American-born British artist) – pioneered the
concept in visual art
4. Oscar Wilde (Oscar wild) (Irish poet, playwright, and author) – championed
the movement despite facing backlash and persecution
 Core Principles
1. Rejection of moralizing standards and traditional artistic norms
2. Emphasis on formal qualities like line, color, and tone
3. Prioritization of art's formal and aesthetic qualities over its subject matter or
moral message
 Legacy
1. Remained significant, predicting abstraction and Abstract Expressionism
2. Influenced the development of modern and contemporary art movements
https://www.theartstory.org/definition/art-for-art/

Elements of Film
The elements of film are the fundamental components that work together to create a
cinematic experience.
1. Narrative
 Plot: The sequence of events that unfold in the story. This includes:
Exposition: Introduction of characters, setting, and initial conflict.
Rising Action: The build-up of tension and complications.
Climax: The turning point of the story, where the conflict reaches its
peak.
Falling Action: The events that follow the climax, leading towards
resolution.
Resolution: The conclusion of the story, where the conflict is resolved (or
not).
  Characters: The individuals who drive the narrative.
Protagonist: The main character.
Antagonist: The character who opposes the protagonist.
Supporting Characters: Characters who play smaller roles but
contribute to the overall story.
 Theme: The underlying message or central idea explored in the film.

2. Cinematography
 Mise-en-scène:The visual composition within the frame.
Setting:The time and place where the story occurs.
Lighting: The use of light and shadow to create mood and atmosphere.
High-key lighting: Bright, even lighting.
Low-key lighting: Creates strong contrasts between light and
shadow.
Natural lighting: Uses sunlight or available light.
Costumes and Makeup: How characters are visually presented.
Props: Objects used to enhance storytelling and character development.
 Camera Work:
Shot Types:
Extreme Close-Up: Focuses on a specific detail.
Close-Up: Focuses on a character's face or a significant object.
Medium Shot: Frames a character from the waist up.
Full Shot: Shows a character's entire body.
Wide Shot/Establishing Shot: Shows the overall setting.
 Camera Angles:
High Angle: Shot from above, can make the subject appear vulnerable or
insignificant.
Low Angle: Shot from below, can make the subject appear powerful or
threatening.
Eye-Level Shot: A neutral shot.
 Camera Movements:
Pan: Horizontal movement of the camera.
Tilt: Vertical movement of the camera.
Zoom: Changes the focal length of the lens to magnify or de-magnify the
subject.
 Tracking Shot: The camera moves horizontally alongside the subject.
Dolly Shot: The camera moves on a wheeled platform.

3. Editing
 Pacing: The rhythm and tempo of the film, controlled by the length and
transitions between shots.
 Montage: A series of short shots edited together to convey a passage of time,
an idea, or a mood.
 Editing Techniques:
Cut: An abrupt transition between shots.
Fade In/Fade Out: Gradually transitioning to or from black.
Dissolve: One shot gradually fades out while the next fades in, creating a
momentary overlap.
Wipe: A line or shape moves across the screen, replacing one shot with
another.

4. Sound
 Dialogue: The spoken words of the characters.
 Music: The soundtrack, including original score and licensed songs.
 Sound Effects: Non-musical sounds used to create atmosphere and enhance
realism.
Diegetic sound: Sounds that originate from within the film's world (e.g.,
footsteps, dialogue).
Non-diegetic sound: Sounds that originate from outside the film's world
(e.g., background music, voiceover).

5. Directing
 The overall vision and execution of the film.
 The director guides the actors, cinematographers, editors, and other crew
members to achieve the desired artistic and narrative goals.

6. Acting
 The performance of the actors, bringing the characters to life.
 Key aspects include:
Character interpretation: Understanding and conveying the character's
personality, motivations, and emotions.
Physicality: Body language, facial expressions, and movement.
Vocal delivery: Tone, pitch, and rhythm of speech.
7. Screenwriting
 The art of writing the script, which serves as the blueprint for the film.
 Involves developing the story, creating compelling characters, and writing
effective dialogue.

1. Definition of Film (Film as an art form)

2. Define Art for Art’s Sake (provide historical bg)
3. Elements of film
(Genres and methods of film)
FILM GENRES
Film Genres- is a category or type of film based on similarities, either in the plot,
aesthetics or the intended emotional response.

Film Styles vs Film Genre

-Film style refers to the specific visual and technical choices made in creating a film.
-Film Genre categorizes a film based on its narrative elements

Types of Genres:
-Drama
-Action
-Crime
-Horror
-Fantasy
-Comedy
-Science Fiction
-Romance
-Western
-Thriller
-Adventure
-Animated
-Historical
-Musical

Purpose of Genres:
1. Setting audience expectations
2. Provide structure for storytellers

Elements Defining a Genre

1. Plot - refers to the sequence of events that make up the story of the film. It
determines the genre by shaping the narrative structure and guiding the audience's
expectations about the kind of story being told.
2. Characters - Different genres often have specific archetypes or character types that
define their structure.
3. Presentation - Presentation refers to how the film is presented to the audience,
including aspects such as cinematography, costumes, music, editing, atmosphere and
visual style. These elements help set the mood and expectations for the genre.

Creative play with Genre

1. Spoof- focuses on specific genre and exaggerates them for comic effect
2. Subversion- uses the opposite of genre conventions, going against expectation and
form
3. Genre Switch- occurs when a film shifts from one genre to another, often within the
same narrative
4. Hybrid Genres- comprised of elements from two or more genres from beginning to
end

(Example of art movement or style or film that embody the theme)

HISTORY FILM
example. The film General Luna (2015), directed by Jerrold Tarog, can be viewed as
an example of art for art's sake, which refers to the idea that art should exist for its
own sake, free from any direct moral, political, or utilitarian purpose. In the context of
General Luna film operates on multiple levels as both a historical recount and an
artistic representation, offering rich visual storytelling, complex character study, and a
nuanced exploration of Philippine history.

Artistic Elements in General Luna that align with "Art for Art's Sake".

1. Cinematic Craft: The film is known for its exceptional cinematography, attention to
historical details, and powerful performances, which make it an artful creation. The
use of lighting, camera angles, and shot compositions enhances the emotional weight
of key moments, elevating the experience beyond just a historical retelling.

2. Character Depth: The film delves into the complexities of its central character,
General Antonio Luna, portraying him as a passionate, controversial, and often
misunderstood figure. The film explores Luna’s internal struggles, his relationships
with fellow leaders, and his sense of duty, making him a multifaceted character that
transcends mere historical portrayal.

3. Artistic Freedom in Storytelling: While General Luna is rooted in the historical

events of the Philippine-American War, it is not a documentary. The filmmakers take
creative liberties to enhance the emotional and dramatic aspects of the story. This
artistic approach helps the film explore themes of nationalism, sacrifice, and betrayal
through a visual and narrative lens that is meant to engage the audience emotionally
and intellectually.

4. Historical vs. Artistic Interpretation: The film does not simply aim to educate about
history but to evoke feelings and reflections. The dialogue, costume design, set
design, and overall production create an immersive historical world while still giving
the filmmakers the freedom to explore the more philosophical and emotional aspects
of the narrative.

General Luna film can be seen as a work of art that serves to evoke emotions,
provoke thought, and reflect on the complexities of leadership, patriotism, and
national identity, rather than simply as a historical lesson. It's about delivering an
experience that lingers with the audience, offering both artistic and emotional value
aligning well with the concept of art for art's sake.

ROMANTIC FILM
example. Hello, Love, Goodbye (2019) can be analyzed as an example of art for art's
sake, though its primary goal is commercial entertainment. This concept, which
advocates the creation of art for the intrinsic value of expression rather than for
external goals (like political influence or commercial success), can be applied to the
film in several ways.

1. Emphasis on Storytelling and Emotional Depth: The film is less about flashy visuals
or plot twists for entertainment value and more about exploring deeper themes like
love, sacrifice, and personal growth. The focus is on portraying complex emotions and
real-life struggles, particularly around relationships and the immigrant experience.
The emotional depth of the characters, portrayed by Kathryn Bernardo and Alden
Richards, gives the film artistic value because it evokes strong reactions from the
audience.

2. Exploration of Universal Themes: It touches on universal, timeless themes of love

and sacrifice, a subject that has been explored in art for centuries. The characters,
who are Filipino overseas workers in Hong Kong, are not just individuals with unique
stories but representations of a broader societal issue. The artistic value lies in how
the story connects with audiences on an emotional and personal level.
3. Character Development: The film takes its time to develop its characters beyond
simple romantic leads. Joy (Kathryn Bernardo) and Ethan (Alden Richards) are not
simply portrayed as lovers; they are individuals with their own dreams, struggles, and
complexities. Their evolution throughout the story is what gives the film depth and
makes it more than just a typical romantic comedy.

4. Cinematic Style: Director Cathy Garcia-Molina uses a cinematic approach that leans
into emotional realism. The film's quiet moments and the intimate portrayal of
characters reflect a conscious artistic decision to focus on character-driven
storytelling rather than just plot-driven spectacle. The film is artistically crafted to
show the nuances of daily life and human connection, especially in the context of
living far from home.

5. Cultural Reflection: The film also serves as an artful exploration of the Filipino
diaspora and the emotional cost of working abroad, something deeply ingrained in
Filipino culture. The portrayal of characters balancing their personal dreams with
familial obligations reflects a form of social commentary that elevates the film beyond
mere entertainment.

Hello, Love, Goodbye emphasis on emotional honesty, character-driven narratives,

and thematic depth contributes to its value as an artistic piece rather than just a box-
office product. It invites the viewer to reflect on the personal sacrifices made for love
and success, presenting these issues not only as entertainment but as an artful
exploration of the human experience.

ANIMATION FILM
example. Avengers films as an "art for art's sake" concept can be examined from an
artistic and philosophical perspective. "Art for art's sake" is a philosophy that
advocates for the creation and appreciation of art without any immediate concern for
moral, political, or commercial purposes. It seeks to appreciate art purely for its
aesthetic qualities and its ability to provoke thought and emotional response,
independent of outside influences.

1. Visual Spectacle and Aesthetic Design: The Avengers films are visually rich, with
stunning special effects, intricate costume designs, and detailed CGI that create a
highly immersive world. These films often push the boundaries of visual storytelling,
much like how traditional artists would experiment with form, color, and technique for
the sake of artistic expression. The sheer visual spectacle of the battles, alien worlds,
and superhero abilities can be seen as an art form that emphasizes visual grandeur.

2. World-Building as Artistic Expression: The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as a

whole is a long-term artistic project that constructs a shared universe, blending
fantasy, sci-fi, and myth. The complex layers of interconnected storylines, character
development, and immersive settings can be appreciated in a similar manner to how
a great literary or artistic work might explore intricate narratives and layered
meanings for pure aesthetic engagement.
3. Cinematic Craft: From direction to editing to sound design, Avengers films employ
the highest levels of cinematic craftsmanship. Directors like Joss Whedon and the
Russo brothers focus on cinematic techniques that create emotionally compelling
moments, whether through sweeping camera movements, intense action sequences,
or quieter character moments. In this sense, the films aren't just serving a plot—
they're crafting an experience that elevates film as a form of art, beyond just a
vehicle for entertainment.

4. Mythological and Archetypal Resonance: The Avengers films often tap into universal
archetypes and mythological themes, such as the hero's journey, sacrifice, and the
battle between good and evil. These timeless themes are expressed not just for the
sake of storytelling, but also to evoke a deeper emotional and intellectual response
from the audience. In this sense, the films create art that transcends their commercial
nature, akin to traditional art forms exploring human condition and existential
questions.

5. Artistic Freedom and Creative Vision: The Avengers films, while part of a massive
corporate franchise, can still be seen as a platform for individual creative voices within
the film industry. Directors, screenwriters, and actors bring unique perspectives to the
project, and each installment can reflect the vision of those involved. The challenge of
blending different styles, characters, and story arcs can be viewed as an artistic
endeavor, where the focus is on the creation of a work that stands out as a cohesive
whole, regardless of its broader financial goals.

6. Aesthetic Impact on Pop Culture: As a phenomenon, the Avengers films have

become a cultural touchstone, influencing other media, fashion, and even
philosophical discourse. Like any impactful art, their influence spreads beyond the
immediate context of the film, shaping how we view heroism, identity, and collective
action. This cultural impact can be seen as a form of artistic legacy, akin to the way
classical art movements influenced societal norms.

In conclusion, while the Avengers films are undeniably products of commercial

cinema, their deep visual artistry, thematic richness, and cultural resonance elevate
them beyond mere entertainment into the realm of art for art’s sake. They stimulate
not only a sense of awe but also provoke contemplation about heroes, sacrifice, and
the nature of good and evil, thereby enriching the viewer’s experience and
understanding of the world.