Video Response: "Joel & Ethan Coen - Shot | Reverse Shot"

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    One particular aspect that goes into making a movie or short film interesting are the shots you use, either during dialogue scenes, or in general to show the character's actions. One of the most famous shot-to-shot sequences is the shot/reverse shot, used as a quick way to record dialogue between two characters. Joel and Ethan Coen are considered the masters of this, and for good reason. What separates their shot/reverse shot sequences from other filmmakers, is that they tend to keep them simple but precise.

    Most filmmakers tend to record dialogue scenes from an over-the-shoulder point of view, while in the Coen brother's film scenes, the characters each get separate shots, meaning, they shoot a lot of singles. They also tend to shoot on wide angle lenses. This way, they're able to zoom/dolly in up close on a subject or a part of them, say, to exaggerate a part of an actor's face. This can make the viewer feel somewhat uncomfortable, but it can also make the scene rather funny. This can also exaggerate the actor's movements, as the wide angle lens usually creates more of an effect on a person's actions.

    The Coen's editing style is also quite different and more distinguishable from other film director's. Most of the time, the 'rythem' of their editing is nonverbal, and usually from facial expressions. The Coen's goal is to have the viewers empathize with the characters. They frame wide enough for you to see the environment, and put the lens right next to the characters at their lowest points. That way, you can see what they're seeing, and be close enough to almost feel what they feel.

    This video was certainly interesting, however somewhat confusing at some points. I understand it can be quite difficult to explain shot sequences and editing techniques, but I believe it would have been easier to understand if they had included more examples from other directors and their film styles to distinguish between the Coen's style and other's. I do like that they explained the effect that this has on the viewer psychologically, though, as that's something I believe you should pay attention to when creating your own film.