What makes a film good?

The question ‘What makes a film good?’ is usually answered with ‘The story’, ‘The Director’ and  ‘The Actors’ and while that is true and it can just come down to the viewer’s opinion and/or preference once a film is analysed it becomes clear that there’s more that goes into it; such as the two levels of film, the micro and macro elements, are what make a film ‘good’. if a film has got superb Micro and Macro elements it is sure to be a superb film.

The Micro Elements of film are: the Editing, how the film’s scenes are arranged and cut in the final product. The Mise-En-Scene, the stage design and arrangement of actors in scenes for a film. The Sound, sound in a movie includes music, dialogue, sound effects, ambient noise, and/or background noise and soundtracks. Some sort of sound is always used to enhance the movie experience. And finally the Cinematography, cinematography involves such techniques as the general composition of a scene; the lighting of the set or location; the choice of cameras, lenses, filters, and film stock; the camera angle and movements; and the integration of any special effects. These four aspects of film are usually the easiest to look for and know if they’re bad or not. 

I would like to mention an example of a good film with good Micro and Macro Elements, this film being ‘Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse’ (2018, Directed by Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman and Bob Persichetti) Just for the Micro Elements this film in this film you can tell it is fully deserving of its Oscar for best-animated film. The editing is obviously and clearly thought out well and when watching the viewer can tell that the crew behind the movie spent a long time on the storyboard and deciding what scenes to cut out from that storyboard because you don’t lose the story anywhere throughout the film, it keeps you captivated and focused. The Mise-En-Scene in this movie is another clear win, since this movie has a very unique style, an impressive comic art style that is heavily influenced by the original comics, and keeping in mind how time-consuming that art style must’ve been it would be quite rational to think that the Mise-En-Scene is therefore well thought out and well planned and that is exactly right the majority of the scenes in this movie are stunning. As for the sound in this film, the Musical score is said to be great and I can say I agree with that. The movie uses a mix of composed music made specifically for the movie and popular music at the time of the movie’s release, some of which mentioned spider man in the lyrics. One of these audios named ‘The Prowlers theme’ is an intense and well thought out audio used for whenever the second antagonist, The Prowler, is on screen. This audio is first used as a first impression to the audience to make sure that an otherwise fairly forgettable character stays in the viewers head throughout the movie which implies that he is significant to the story(which he is). The Prowler end up being the protagonist’s uncle, the person who he respected the most throughout the movie ended up being the person trying to kill him the entire movie. When their identities were revealed to each other his uncle was shot and that was the turning point for the main character and leads us to the next element which is The Cinematography in this film. After the death of his uncle, the protagonist decided to do a leap of faith off a building and hopefully swing away and this scene is where a macro element called ‘the messages and values’ shows. As the protagonist is preparing for the jump the camera is slanted which implies something is off or the character is feeling intense emotions(an example of great cinematography), the camera slants so the colossal buildings of NYC almost surround him like a jungle. And as he leaps off, the camera goes upside down to make it seem like he’s levitating up to the city, in this scene the city could be symbolising his new responsibilities(which he has been trying to run away from) and how he is now willing to accept it and face it(this shown by him going towards what’s being symbolised as his responsibilities by what looks like willingly thanks to good cinematography) 

Now back to the Macro Element of Messages and Values, I believe that in this movie the message and value is resilience and the process of adapting to adversity, the ability to bounce back after difficult experiences throughout life fits perfectly and describes the implied message and values of the film.

In conclusion, what makes a film ‘good’ is its ability to spark an interest in the viewer and send the intended message to the viewer, films use different elements in different ways to do this and whether or not those aspects are done well is mostly up to the viewer’s opinion and/or preference. Furthermore, a film may have good editing, cinematography, sound et cetera but if it doesn’t interest the audience or doesn’t send a message that viewer can relate or agree with then although it may be good technically it won’t be seen as ‘good’ by the viewer. 

I will upload when I can 🙂

What makes a good film? 

There are many elements that make a film great; however, everyone will have their own different opinions on what the most important factors are due to the large variety of film genres and peoples movie preferences. This simple question is personalized to everyone, but sometimes no matter the genre there are a few vital parts needed in order to make a good film. For example, sound and music play a huge role in any movie as it is a great way to build tension like the infamous Jaws song (Steven Spielberg, 1975) as it keeps the viewers on edge. Also the sound is what makes the movie feel more authentic and transports the viewer into the film. For instance people talking in a restaurant or the sound of waves on a beach. If there was no sound or music it would take away the excitement and realness of the movie.  

Furthermore; the plot has to be good and not too complicated so the viewer can follow along and be entertained. If a film has an excellent yet simple storyline it allows the filmmakers to work around and build on other aspects of the movie. Otherwise it can get too confusing and quite messy which can make the experience for the viewers not as enjoyable.  

Another factor which is arguably the most important is the characters and script. Firstly a decent script with good dialogue is what brings the characters to life. A script can create a previous world for the characters without having to show it in the film which is important as it can form a level of understanding or even a bond with the viewer. Next, having a cast of good actors is what will give a movie its sense of realism. Not only do the actors need to be believable, but also the character dynamics need to be believable because again, this is what will bring a movie to life.  

In addition, a good movie will be visually pleasing, this can be done by using specific colours or shades, it is a good way to set the tone and even show the change in emotion. Colour pallets are also a great way to show the different personalities of each character. For example in Little Women (Greta Gerwig, 2019) each sister has their own dress code and colours specific to them. Also, visuals can create an almost out of this world experience as shots can be manipulated and changed to something impossible for the human eye.  

Overall, there are a lot of different factors that go into making a great film, not just one. Everything I have mentioned are the most important elements for me when I watch a movie.  

There are many elements that can make up a good film, from the cinematography to the narrative and even the editing. All these factors make affect the quality and entertainment of a movie. 

A good film is one that uses these factors to make an interesting story using a range of artistic and technical ideas to both look good and be able to uplift the intended narrative. For example, if a film is beautifully written but has incredibly lackluster editing choices the film may be boring or even unwatchable from strange disruptions to the pacing and tone. A great concept is easily ruined by a few poor decisions, even simple things like timing or a small handful of awkward performances.  

A bad film is arguably one that fails in many critical areas, like an incompetent director, poor studio management or budgeting difficulties. These all impact how a film is treated behind the scenes. A film could also be considered bad if it has bad intentions going into it, like making the film specifically to make money or making it to spread a harmful message.  

Some films might be disliked by most audience members when it first comes out but then become relevant a few years later, after finding its perfect audience or the social issues discussed in it are more relevant to a contemporary audience. A film may not exactly be bad but just ahead of its time. Some other films might also not find a lot of box office success but may still have a higher artistic value than what is doing better financially. Whether or not a film having a higher artistic value makes them “better” is up to the individual film and if they use these aspects to enhance the story or if they just do it to be unique. 

There is also the concept of how rewatchable a film is and if it gets better if one rewatches several times over. A movie whose main concept revolves around a plot twist, like a murder mystery, may have less rewatch value as so much time is spent setting up something the audience already knows. There are also older films which, when rewatched, can give the viewer nostalgia, especially if the film was a part of their childhood. Some newer movies even set themselves around an older time to cater to nostalgia and get more people to watch it. Some older films may be seen as worse by modern audiences because of a change in societal attitudes around certain subjects and issues and seeing them being seen in that way may be offensive or upsetting. 

In conclusion, what makes a good film is incredibly subjective however I personally prefer films that use their artistic and technical abilities to elevate an interesting and engaging story. 

What makes a film good? (400-500wc)

There are many aspects of a film that dictate whether it is “good” or not. Obviously, a person can choose if they like it as they have their own opinion and how well-made the film is can make a significant difference to the success of the film. By having a good plot and a good soundtrack a film can draw in some viewers while a good cast list can draw in others.

Personally, a good film consists of a plot which keeps you asking questions, a film that foreshadows but does not explicitly say what is going to happen, films like Shutter Island (2010, martin Scorsese) or Fight Club (1999, David Fincher). In these films the audience or constantly left in the dark unknowingly waiting for a massive plot twist towards the end of the film. Ironically, both films are based on books with the same name so again that could be a factor in how good a film can be.

Sometimes it is easier to watch a film when we follow a protagonist through their own life or situation like in “500 days of summer” (2009, Marc Webb) we watch Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) review his relationship with a girl called Summer (Zooey Deschanel) and finds out the highs and lows of dating her while simultaneously the audience are watching to see if He’s the bad guy or her. This gives the film a unique point of view and allows a viewer to emotionally connect to the film. To some people this type of connection makes a film “that much” better as they have something to relate to.

An exciting soundtrack can give a film more depth and create an exciting experience for the audience while somewhat furthering someone’s understanding of the film. “Requiem for a dream” (Darren Aronofsky, 2000) is a perfect example of this as it gives the film a more dramatic edge while also displaying to the audience the characters’ emotions, making the film more intense. As well as having a good soundtrack, Aronofsky manages to display chilling message of addiction through his directing and the actors’ outstanding performances.

Along with the plot, the soundtrack and the characters, without the use of a camera a film would not be a thing. So, I think another part of a film which makes it good would be the filming and the camera techniques used throughout shooting. For example, in some modern action films (mission impossible and john wick) the cinematographers use a technique called shaky cam or run-and-gun to make you feel like you are part of the action. This creates a fun atmosphere for watchers and it’s another aspect as to what makes a film “good”.

What makes a film “good”?

As evidence, the film I will be using is “The Green Mile” directed by Frank Darabont and based on the Stephen King novel by the same name. In my opinion, macro elements are the building blocks for what makes a good film because without them the audience would have nothing to relate to. Micro elements such as cinematography and sound make the film visually pleasing and act as decorations further adding to the film. “The Green Mile” perfectly demonstrates how micro elements can build upon macro elements helping the viewer to grasp the message the film is trying to convey better. 

One of the elements that made “The Green Mile” a good film is message and values, I think this is the most important element because, like all forms of art, one film could be interpreted in many different ways. The Green Mile’s message is an incredibly important one which is that life is short and cruel to kind people. The green mile itself, the lime coloured corridor death row inmates walk down before their execution, is an extended metaphor for death. This is brought to the viewer’s attention when the character of Paul Edgecomb said, “And I think about all of us. Walking our own green mile; each in our own time.” The main character of the film, John Coffey, was wrongly accused of the murder of two young girls. Later on in the film, the prison guards discover Coffey has the gift of healing. He is still executed despite his innocence, this conveys the message that life isn’t fair and the legal system is flawed. Messages and values are personal to the viewer and stimulate an emotional connection to the film which is the foundation of what makes a good film. 

The second element that made “The Green Mile” a good film is cinematography especially the use of lighting. Despite the light-hearted dialogue, the overall tone of the film is dark and dingy. This along with the undersaturation of the costumes and setting creates a depressing atmosphere. The lighting throughout the film contrasts this, whenever Coffey uses his gift to heal someone the lighting becomes more intense. I think Darabont did this not only to highlight the physical toll John’s gift has on him but also so that the viewer subconsciously categorises the character of John with warmth and light. Another way cinematography was used to better the film was the setting. The camera crew used perspective and furniture such as John’s bed and the electric chair were made smaller so that the actor who played Coffey appeared larger and more intimidating. This made it more effective when they broke the assumptions the audience had been making about his character and revealed him to fall into the ‘gentle giant’ archetype. 

In conclusion, I think that a focus on narrative and message and values is what will make a film “good”, whilst also using cinematography to emphasise the message of the film.

There’s very many aspects within a film that’ll make a film good. Different people have different aspects of films. Personal preference plays a huge part within the idea of making it good. People would think it depends on how intriguing the film is, but not everyone will be intrigued in the same types of films. Take into account age groups, 7 year olds aren’t going to be interested in watching a horror film but adults won’t be interested in watching children’s films. Also if an adult is more scared of horror movies than others it’ll make the movie better for the person more scared as they can feel the fear that the movie was created to spread, whereas the less fearful adults won’t be as attracted to the film. Not only is personal preference a part of making a film good, the storyline line is also important. If a film doesn’t have a well thought out storyline then there is no point for said film. The storyline is the whole base of the film, you cannot have a film without a story behind why the film is created. All storylines must consist of a beginning, middle and end. The beginning usually gives an insight into characters and shows character relationships. The middle is usually where the problems occur, and the end is where it all comes together. Without that basic layout, the film that has been placed on show wouldn’t be as interesting as many may believe it to be. Actors play a massive part in how good a film can be. If a film has actors that don’t relate to their characters then the film wouldn’t make much sense as there is no connection between the actors and characters. Also certain people watch movies with certain actors, when searching for a film if they see a well known actor they will be more compelled to watch the film. By using a well known actor in the creation of a film it’ll make the film a better success in society. As more films that are considered good roll out into cinemas and at home televisions, the film industry becomes more under pressure to create films that are good. That’s why attention to detail is so critical in making a film good. Even the slightest head movement can make all the difference. Having an actor look directly at the camera creates a connection between the actor and the viewer. Having that connection keeps the viewer engaged in the film. Also animation films, over the years animation has become a high demand for kids as they like the colours and the smooth play out of the film. Animation films are usually funny with sad intervals. Animation has come so far from where it started and each scene and movement must be exact to create the films we see today. Not all films are considered good as not all films are able to live up to the expectations of society in what they want to see. Of course they’ll be fans of some films but others won’t take off as the way the director/author filmed/wrote the film wasn’t appealing to their target audience. Whereas other films lived up to the expectations that society created about films and those films have now introduced sequels to their original films, for example Toy story was a massive hit in the world of film that they continue to create more films as there is a high demand for watching them. Toy story has the basic layout that every film should have which makes the film and its sequels considered to be a good film. To finish, I believe that the idea of making a film good is all down to personal preference, not everyone’s going to enjoy the same films and not everyone’s going to see that film. There are millions of films out there, not everyone is going to see every single film within their lifetime especially as new films are constantly being released. Therefore, its all down to the basically outline and the storyline. if it appeals to a person then it does but we can’t hold people accountable for not liking certain films.

1. YEAR 1
2. Summer Task (What makes a good film? )
3. Activity 1 Induction slides :Connecting the IB Learner Profile to Film Studies
4. Activity 2 Induction slides: Categorising Film.
5. Activity 3 Induction Slides : Identify a Formula for Box Office Hits
6. Mise en Scene “Chaotic vs Anally Tidy” Examples.
7. Mise en scene definition
8. Mise en Scene Choose a Film which you think demonstrates “excellent use of Mise en Scene” and explain why. (Remember to illustrate your ideas with still images from the film!)
9. Homework WK 1: (20 /09/21) Film as Art “Spectrum” Activity (from Monaco How to Read a Film).
10. Bladerunner First Response and Memorable Scene
11. Homework WK 2: (27 /09/21) Bladerunner Mise En Scene Essay (E MAIL TO ME DIRECT)
12. Cinematography/Cinematographer definition (28/9/21)
13. Diegetic, Intradiegetic, Extradiegetic gaze examples (30/9/21)
14. Shot Distances Examples (1/10/21)
15. Shot Angles Examples (1/10/21)
16. Shot Movement Examples (1/10/21)
17. Shot Types Table (4/10/21)
18. Kubrick Shot Types (Steadicam, Symmetry, One-point Perspective) (15/1021)
19. The Shining First Response (15/10/21)
20. Homework WK 3:Shining essay on Cinematography (18/10/21) (E MAIL TO ME DIRECT)
21. Definition of Editing (18/10/21)
22. Kuleshov Effect Tableau (20/10/21)
23. Simple Edit of Joker Opening Sequence ( 22/10/21) Uploaded to Exported and uploaded to Microsoft Stream Channel – Put link on Blog/Share with teacher
24. J Cuts and L Cuts – definitions and examples (5/11/21)
25. Match Cuts – definitions and examples (5/11/21)
26. Homework Week 9 Whiplash essay on Editing (12/11/21) (E MAIL TO ME DIRECT)
27. Sound Tasks from PowerPoint (19/11/21)
28. Sound of Metal First Response (23/11/21)
29. Homework Week 11 Sound of Metal essay on Sound (29/11/21) (E MAIL TO ME DIRECT)
30. Sound Practical Task The Shore upload to M drive and place blog link to the finished project on your Microsoft Stream channel (29/11/21)
31. Complete Portfolio Roles Choices (10/12/21)
32. Complete research into chosen roles (10/12/21)
33. Complete research into inspirational practitioners (17/12/21)
34. Complete 2X Inquiry Paragraphs/ Film Makers Intentions for Role 1 and 2 (17/12/21)
35. AFTER XMAS AUTEUR presentation 9 PP Slides uploaded to the blog (AS pdf) by 8/1/22
36. Cinemagoing in Jersey Blog Post 10/1/22
37. Story of Film Questions Part 1 on the blog 10/1/22
38. Birth of Hollywood Presentations 26/1/22 & 27/1/22 (Send individual slides to Ms Magowan by 31st of January)
39. Citizen Kane Written tasks on blog 14/2/22
40. Citizen Kane Practical Tasks 18/2/22
41. German Expressionism Cabinet of Caligari Blog Posts 14/3/22
42. German Expressionism Cabinet of Caligari Essay 14/3/22
43. German Expressionism Cabinet of Caligari Practical Task 18/3/22
44. Russian Constructivism Blog Tasks 25/3/22
45. Russian Constructivism Essay “Strike” 25/3/22
46. Russian Constructivism Gerasimov Editing Task 25/3/22
47. French New Wave Blog Tasks 8/4/22
48. French New Wave Essay “La Jetee” 8/4/22
49. French New Wave Long Take Practical Task 25/ 4/22
50. Choose Films and Film Focus (on the blog) 25/4/22
51. First draft of research question 2/5/22
52. Finalised research question on the blog 9/5/22
53. Deadline for the first 1600 word draft of your comparative essay  e mailed to me 27/5/22
54. Have completed the Screenwriting Session Homework (on blog /one per group) by 15/6/22
55. 2nd Draft of Comparative Essay e mailed to me by 17/6/22
56. Have formed production team for Collaborative Project and assigned roles by 17/6/22
57. Have completed the Narrative Mapping task on slide 17 of the Screenplay Structure Slides
58. Collaborative Project – have created a screenplay outline by 1/7/22
59. Comparative Project -have assembled a first draft in premiere by 1/7/22
60. Comparative Project – have marked up script and recorded V/O by  24/6/22​
61. Collaborative Project – have created a shooting schedule and shooting script by 15/7/22
62. Have uploaded a completed  Comparative Project by 15/7/22

Feature Film

Actor in a Feature Film

Actress in a Feature Film

Original Film Soundtrack

Director of a Feature Film

Knowledgeable	Film makers must be knowledgeable in order to give an insight and opinion with careful reasoning.
Risk-Takers
Principled
Balanced
Communicators
Reflective	A film maker needs to be able to reflect on their own work to make it as good as they possibly can.
Caring	Film makers have to be caring towards other communities, religions and ideas about culture, and also take into consideration the preservation of nature.
Inquirers
Open-Minded
Thinkers