Symbolism in Cinema
Symbolism in the Cinema
Symbolism is an underlying and sometimes specific theme that affects a piece of work, such as a film. It’s usually hidden subtly under the main story’s conversation or narrative in order to emphasize the main themes and increase a certain layer of depth that would otherwise be missing. Reynolds (2014), “It’s something that’s continually been looked at more as a term for an element displayed in literature, rather than in film.” (para. 1). Many films are brought forth from literature. (Reynolds, 2014)
Studies reveal how symbolism used by film makers can act as a bridge between thoughts and feelings, cognition and aesthetics. Symbolism in a film can be so subtle, the film’s viewers may not be aware it exists. A symbol appears when an image is surrounded by conscious and unconscious associations and its impact is dependent upon its cultural context. Film directors assimilate symbols with character, theme, and predicament. (Bakoney, 1974)
Symbolism is an approach used abroad to express a message that’s deeper, alternative for language when it’s shared and enhances the message that’s intended. Symbolism is when something represents something. For example; a dove could represent peace and a lighted candle could represent hope and prosperity. (Hogg and Jackson, 2010)
In the film, “Winter Light”, Ingmar Bergman repeatedly uses water symbolizing the still body of a man who has committed suicide.
In the film, “Gummo”, the scene before the last, it’s raining and the song “Crying” is playing in the background. The song and the rain symbolize God’s tears at the sin of the residents.
In the film, “The Spiderman Trilogy”, Peter has multiple father figures such as his secretive biological father, adoptive father, Norman, and Doc Oc. In the film, Peter, aka Spiderman, is trying to find his way through life. Spiderman symbolizes how we all go about finding our own ways in life.
Many of the Disney films contain symbolism because they are always
Symbolism is an underlying and sometimes specific theme that affects a piece of work, such as a film. It’s usually hidden subtly under the main story’s conversation or narrative in order to emphasize the main themes and increase a certain layer of depth that would otherwise be missing. Reynolds (2014), “It’s something that’s continually been looked at more as a term for an element displayed in literature, rather than in film.” (para. 1). Many films are brought forth from literature. (Reynolds, 2014)
Studies reveal how symbolism used by film makers can act as a bridge between thoughts and feelings, cognition and aesthetics. Symbolism in a film can be so subtle, the film’s viewers may not be aware it exists. A symbol appears when an image is surrounded by conscious and unconscious associations and its impact is dependent upon its cultural context. Film directors assimilate symbols with character, theme, and predicament. (Bakoney, 1974)
Symbolism is an approach used abroad to express a message that’s deeper, alternative for language when it’s shared and enhances the message that’s intended. Symbolism is when something represents something. For example; a dove could represent peace and a lighted candle could represent hope and prosperity. (Hogg and Jackson, 2010)
In the film, “Winter Light”, Ingmar Bergman repeatedly uses water symbolizing the still body of a man who has committed suicide.
In the film, “Gummo”, the scene before the last, it’s raining and the song “Crying” is playing in the background. The song and the rain symbolize God’s tears at the sin of the residents.
In the film, “The Spiderman Trilogy”, Peter has multiple father figures such as his secretive biological father, adoptive father, Norman, and Doc Oc. In the film, Peter, aka Spiderman, is trying to find his way through life. Spiderman symbolizes how we all go about finding our own ways in life.
Many of the Disney films contain symbolism because they are always
References: Bakoney, E. (1974). Symbolism in the Feature Film. Retrieved from http://eric.ed.gov Reynolds, D. (2014). 11 Classic Movies With Amazing Symbolism That You Never Noticed. Retrieved from http://whatculture.com/film/11-classic-movies-with-amazing-symbolism-that-you-never-noticed.php Symbolism. (2010). In Encyclopedia of Identity. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com