WEBISODE 1 - REVENGE UNHINGED
Dec 14, 2014 - During a time when TV was the new thing, iconic film director Alfred Hitchcock creates his own series. He would experiment with camera styles and themes that he could later use in his full motion pictures. We examine the episode "Revenge" of Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
Guest commentary by:
Joel Gunz
Forris Day
Tony Lee Moral
Sponsored by:
NOTES:
In this webisode filmmakers learn the basics of Hitchcock's directorial style. Those who wish to emulate his techniques in their films should pay close attention to this episode.
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Happy Setting - Hitchcock found ways to create tension between funny and serious, by using happy settings that surround a dramatic situation. Whimsical music also counterpoints a lurid event.
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Roaming Cam - Hitchcock's camera roams the room looking for a story, just as if you would if you had just entered.
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Follow the Eyes - Hitchcock uses point-of-view sequences which mix reaction shots with the object being watched. This pulls the audience into the mind of the character.
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Hands, Feet, Objects - Hitchcock's cinematic language uses hands, feet, and objects as storytelling devices. Hands show anxiety and shock. Feet represent place and safety (or lack therof).
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Silent Murder - In "Revenge" the murder takes place in a single camera shot in apparent real time, but ocurrs off-screen.
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Don't Cut - Lingering on one shot is a way to hold on to the intesity of an emotional moment. Cutting away dissipates tension.
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The sound of a ticking clock is used to add texture to the tension. It is a way of using the settings to comment on the scene.
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A profile shot of Vera Miles shows that she is lying or suspicious.
The full episode of "Revenge" (1955) can be found on DVD, as well as Hulu.
TRIVIA QUESTION:
In which later Hitchcock movie was Vera Miles cast, but had to drop out due to pregnancy?
ANSWER: Vertigo
