Run Lola Run Essay

The 1998 film ‘Run Lola Run’ directed by Tom Tykwer uses visual techniques to convey messages to the audience and involve the audience in the experiences that the images create. The use of a variety of techniques create distinctively visual images that are both memorable and unique, they feature visuals that are highly distinctive. With the use of techniques including symbolism, characterisation, animation and camera techniques, Tykwer explores and conveys ideas about the nature of love, subjectivity and inescapabilty of time and the absurdity of chance events. Tykwer portrays the distinctively visual images of Lola running, the red filter scenes, animated sequences and the split screens. ‘The Highwayman’ by Alfred Noyes, also utilizes distinctively visual imagery in the areas of setting, symbolism and characterisation to explore similar ideas about love and fate. Tykwer’s post-modern film is both important and influential that is remarkable for its use of a variety of innovative techniques, such as a non-linear narrative and a combination of animation ad traditional film styles.
The distinctively visual image of Lola running is formed
The animated sequences emphasise the theme of chance as they cause the audience to focus more on the variances between the three runs. All three of the animated scenes have Lola running down what looks like a never ending spiral staircase, the spiral representing time and confusion. The spiral images reoccur throughout the entire film constantly reminded the audience of the idea of chance and time. The part that varies in each animated scene is the encounter with the “hoodlum” with his dog. Each encounter with the hoodlum gives the audience a hint of upcoming events. Tykwer’s use of animation and foreshadowing creates distinctive scenes that catch the audience’s