Short Film Research: Whiplash

Common CAMS in Drama:

Close-ups to emphasize characters' emotions.

Tracking shots to follow characters, immersing the audience in their journey.

Shallow focus to isolate characters, emphasizing their struggles.

Dramatic lighting, such as high contrast or shadows, to convey mood.

In Whiplash:

The close-ups on Andrew's hands as he drums show the strain and intensity of his craft.

The use of sharp cuts between Andrew and Fletcher builds tension and amplifies the emotional stakes.

Common Sound in Drama:

Diegetic sound like dialogue and environmental noises to ground the story in realism.

Non-diegetic soundtracks, often subtle, to enhance emotional resonance.

Abrupt silence to emphasize dramatic moments.

In Whiplash:

The intense sound of the drumsticks against the snare captures Andrew's relentless practice.

Fletcher's booming voice creates a sense of intimidation.

Moments of silence between exchanges heighten the tension.

Common Mis-En-Scene (CLAMPS):

Costume: Realistic clothing to represent relatable characters.

Lighting: Often naturalistic or dramatic to evoke emotion.

Actors: Performances centered on character depth and emotional expression.

Makeup: Minimal, unless used to show physical exhaustion or damage.

Props: Everyday objects central to the story (e.g., musical instruments).

Setting: Intimate and relatable spaces like homes, schools, or rehearsal rooms.

In Whiplash:

The drum kit is a focal prop, representing Andrew's dedication and struggle.

The rehearsal room's dim, moody lighting reflects the high-pressure environment.

Common Editing in Drama:

Continuity editing to maintain realism.

Montages to show progression or effort.

Quick cuts during intense scenes to create energy and pace.

In Whiplash:

Quick cuts during Andrew's practice sessions highlight his obsessive pursuit of perfection.

Montages of Andrew drumming show his dedication and the passage of time.

Example Films in the Drama Genre

The Pursuit of Happyness

Black Swan

Boyhood

La La Land

Elements of the Genre I Like

The focus on emotional depth and character development.

The ability to make everyday struggles feel profound and meaningful.

The intense pacing during climactic moments, as seen in Whiplash.

Elements of the Genre That Do Not Appeal to Me

At times, the focus on realism can feel too heavy or slow-paced.

The emotional weight of some stories can feel overwhelming or depressing.