Shelter Scene Deconstruction 3

Camera Angles

• Over the shoulder shots are used throughout the conversation. Unlike the previous scene’s, it involved both characters in the shot, showing he is opening up and feels less ashamed about confessing his sexuality.

• An establishing shot is used at the end of the scene as opposed to the beginning. This shows a vast horizon as the sunset over the sea. We can see a silhouette as Zach is able to hug his ex-girlfriend. By placing this at the end of the scene it could represent a sense of closure as Zach admits for the first time that he is gay, and settles things with his ex.

Editing

• Shot-reverse-shot shows the conversation runs smoothly. In previous scene the conversations are interrupted by single close ups long pauses, however here we can clearly see both characters as they engage in conversation. It shows there is less tension as Zach adapts to his sexuality and becomes more comfortable as he is able to open up about his secret.

Sound

• The diegetic piece of dialogue from Zach, “You’re the only reason I wish I wasn’t”, shows us that he is no longer ashamed of his sexuality and is comfortable telling people. It also portrays the mutual feeling of agreement as both him and his ex girlfriend accept this new change and come to an understanding.
• In the piece of dialogue Zach’s ex girlfriend asks “do you love him?” Zach responds with “oh come on…” This shows that although he is admitting to his sexuality, there is still some level of embarrassment which may be difficult for most people to overcome when admitting to such a big change. There is still a sense that some people will be no be accepting of issues such as this, which could cause Zach to be ashamed.

Mise-en-Scene

• The setting of the scene is very tranquil and has a calm ambiance. The use of a beach as the sunsets could portray Zach’s feelings as he clears his head and is able to be open about his sexuality for the first time in the movie. It portrays a sense of peace and relief for both characters after the confusion and arguments that have occurred.

• The natural lighting as the sunsets also adds to the peaceful ambiance. It helps portray how calm Zach is as he talks to someone so close to him about being gay, as he had struggled to with his sister and his best friend. This shows us that he has truly come to terms with his sexuality.

Shelter Scene Deconstruction 2

Camera Angles 

• A mid shot presents Zach in the far end of the frame and his friend in the other, which shows the distance between them as his friend tries to talk to him. It portrays Zach’s sense of isolation, shame and embarrassment, which may be a common feeling among people when they discover they are gay.

• Close ups are used throughout the first half of the conversation as Zach’s friend brings up the fact that he knows that Zach is gay. This helps present the idea that he is isolating himself as opposed to being open about his sexuality through showing him alone in one shot. However, as the conversation begins to open up, mid shots and over the shoulder shots are used again.

Editing

• A panning shot is used to follow Zach as he walks away from his friend at the counter. This shows how he is trying to avoid discussing his sexuality with anyone. Also, the idea of following him as he moves away could represent how people may be looking at or talking about him as they hear the controversial news.
• Shot-reverse-shot is used between the two characters as the conversation becomes more intense and Zach begins to respond. We get a greater sense of Zach’s emotions of anger and embarrassment as we are able to see his reaction to each piece of dialogue from his friend.

Sound

• The diegetic piece of dialogue from Zach’s friend, “Why didn't you tell me?” triggers the topic of the conversation and immediately shows us that Zach tried to avoid the conversation by turning his back and walking away. This shows how many are ashamed of their sexually and try to keep it to themselves.
• When Zach’s friend suggests that he knows, Zach’s diegetic dialogue “I don’t know what you’re talking about” suggests that he is desperately attempting to avoid the topic of his sexuality or even that he may be in denial about this change.

Mise-en-Scene

• The entire scene is situated in an empty café. The idea that there is no one else around further isolates Zach. It also leaves him completely alone with his friend, forcing him to face up to what he is asking and partake in the conversation.

• Zach is carrying a tea towel round which offers him a prop to excuse himself from the conversation and direct eye contact with his friend. This shows how he is reluctant to face up to the truth about his sexuality.

Shelter Scene Deconstruction 1

Camera Angles

• Mid shots are used throughout this scene; however they are done with a hand help camera. The shakiness of the camera emphasizes the anger and unsteadiness in the conversation, showing how it is becoming out of control and turning into a row.
• The consistent use of mid shots allows us to focus mainly on the characters and isolates them in the conversation. This helps us to understand clearly what is going on and the importance of the dialogue within this scene.

Editing

• Shot-reverse-shot is the main technique used throughout this scene. It shows the flow of the conversation and adds pace as it flips fluently from one character to another. This shows the tension and anger between the two characters.
• A tracking shot (broken up in placed by mid shots of Genie) follows Zach as he enters the room and approaches the chair. It draws attention to him. We can tell from this that his secret about his relationship with Shaun is out as Genie is portrayed as disappointed and upset and the camera is focusing on him. This prepares us for what is to come.

Sound

• The diegetic piece of dialogue: “Please tell me he’s just confused” said by Zach’s sister, Genie, opens the conversation and represents the idea that homosexuality is still seen from a negative perspective my many people in society.
• Another piece of diegetic dialogue used that highlights the prejudice Genie has against homosexuality is, “Oh I see so it’s the family gene that’s making you run off and have your big gay wedding. You gonna make the family proud?” Her sarcastic tone shows that she is ashamed of her brother’s sexuality. The fact that she is also using their family against him shows that she believes that everyone should agree with her on the basis that homosexuality is wrong. This is an example of how part of society has not accepted homosexuality, causing people to be ashamed of it and wish to hide, like Zach has been doing.

Mise-en-Scene

• As Zach enters the house, a mid shot shows his sister smoking and looking upset. The cigarette could have connotations of depression or stress, therefore emphasizing her disappointment and how negatively her discovery of her brother’s sexuality has affected her.

• Zach is wearing a casual, dark t-shirt and hoodie which is masculine and typical of a young person of his age. However this subverts the stereotype of him being a typical, homosexual man as he does not appear feminine in any way.

Shelter Trailer

Camera Angles

• The first still shot we in this trailer is of the protagonist, Zach. This shot is a close up. This is done so that the audience can become familiar with the characters and gain a rough understanding as to who has what role to play in this film. This is a simple but effective technique to explore as it allows the audience to gain an opinion straight away. 

• The first shot we see of Zach and the other protagonist, Shaun, together is a mid-shot. This is a very popular shot for introducing two main characters to the audience. It allows for a certain level of uncertainty on the audiences’ part as to what their relationship could be.

• Towards the middle of the trailer we see an aerial shot of Zach and Shaun laying on a bed kissing. This is a good shot to use as it clearly uncovers the main theme of this film which is homosexuality or simply sexuality in general. Furthermore, this shot choice connotes feelings of anxiety as it could seem like someone was watching from a godly position above, this said because Zach is clearly ashamed of his sexuality and therefore the act of kissing another man. Also, to film someone from above, is to look down on them, and this to Zach is how everyone will view him for what he truly is. 

Sound

• This trailer uses a non diegetic soundtrack throughout that was either purposely written for the film and trailer, or was adapted from a song that already existed. The song that plays begins with the click of two drumsticks being hit together. This sound is made in tandem with the montage of images seen on screen. This piece of match-on-action is both well done, and effective in wasting no time at all when it comes to grabbing the audiences’ attention
• The song works quite well in this trailer as it climax’s perfectly with the action on screen. Firstly, the sound changes to a much quieter and calmer feel to allow for the biggest bulk of dialogue to take a place before exploding to an all time high as Zach and Shaun’s relationship blossoms and becomes more obvious to the audience.

Editing

• The trailer begins with a montage of images consisting of the main protagonist (Zach) skating through the streets and illegally tagging property with a spray can. This technique is very effective as it allows for a lot of exposure within a short period of time. Furthermore, it also grabs the attention of the audience right from the first second and demands questions from them which can only be answered by watching the film. This is a great marketing technique for any film maker.
• Towards the end of the trailer we see a shortened montage. This montage fits in quite nicely as it brings together multiple still shots of Zach and Shaun sharing intermit moments. Moreover; it also compares massively with the first montage that consisted of Zach skating and tagging buildings. The second montage truly tells the story of the main protagonist. 

Mise-En-Scene

• Within this trailer there is a shot that very effectively uses a combination of the natural bright sun light and the white bed clothing. This use of bright, clean colours has connotations of a calm atmosphere, which is of course the opposite of how Zach feels about the whole situation. However, it also connotes happiness which is how Zach is feeling, but due to the pressures put on him he does not feel he can openly express his true feelings.

• Both Shaun and Zach break the stereotype for homosexual men. They both take part in hobbies such as surfing and skateboarding which are both masculine activities. The stereotype being that homosexual men take on feminine traits and therefore wouldn't typically be seen enjoying such hobbies as these.

Shelter Poster

Images:  This image used is of two men, laying next to each other in bed, with happy expressions on their face. This immediately tells us that the film will focus on their sexuality and relationship. There is also a banner, much like a piece of film tape, across the top, which shows us various other scenes from the film. It simply gives us an idea of the other characters involved as opposed to the storyline and is not entirely necessary, however, makes the poster more interesting.

Colours: Blue is used throughout the majority of the poster and this could show two ideas within the film. As it is based by the beach, and the characters meet through surfing then it could represent the waves. However, the more relevant idea that could be taken from this is that blue if a very masculine colour, and could represent the idea of a homosexual relationship, and how one character may feel that his masculinity would be taken away from him if he admitted to his sexuality.

Layout:  Award the film has one are placed all along the top. There is also a very positive quote about the film in the top right corner of the main image. All these factor towards causing people to watch it due to its success and the positive feedback it has received. There is a lot to look at over the poster; images, credits, text etc. Although it is crowded, it is interesting to look at and catches the audiences eye. The image and the title are the main focal point, telling you the most about the film.

Typography: The typography is simple and its relevance could be open to interpretation. The rough style of the font could be looked at as handwriting, i.e. from a love letter. However, it could also represent the involvement of art in the film, as this is one aspect that draws the characters together. This is supported by the use of brushstrokes in the background.

Catch Phrase: “Home is where you least expect to find it.” This phrase says a lot about the film and the idea of being unsure, or ashamed of sexuality. The character is in denial when he finds that he has developed feelings for another man as he did not expect this.

Genre: From the use of imagery we can immediately see that the film will be a romance, as the two characters are clearly a couple show through the scenery and facial expressions.