When it comes to making good cinema, Christopher Nolan has truly proven he can do it all. With some of the most successful standalone films of the past decade and perhaps the most innovative superhero franchise entry of all time, it's clear at this point that he has a winning structure in place for creating film. What's most interesting about that structure, however, is that it directly mirrors the subject of one of his greatest films.
Like any good writer, Nolan sticks to a three-act structure, but Fandor's latest video essay reveals how he takes a page from the magician's handbook and sets up the plot much like any great magic trick.
"For me, The Prestige is very much about filmmaking," Nolan admits. "It's also intended to suggest to the audience some of those ideas about how the film itself is spooling its narrative out to the audience." The film's structure is predicated on the three part set up of a great magic trick, "The Pledge," "The Turn," and "The Prestige."
The Pledge
As Fandor notes, Nolan's pledge is to work within genres. This way, he is able to set up scenarios that the audience feels it has seen before and therefore anticipate what will come next.
The Turn
The turn comes when the audience's expectations are subverted by something that they did not expect to see within the genre Nolan is employing. As the director puts it, "I like to work on films where the genre is not defined by the most superficial aspects of the piece." Another strategy he employs here is misdirection. He uses morally ambiguous protagonists to keep the audience guessing who's good and who's bad, out-of-order chronology to keep them on their toes, and, of course, narrative twists to dispell anything they thought might be coming down the plotline.
The Prestige
Finally, Nolan is a huge fan not only of the surprise ending, but in creating endings that Fandor describes as containing a narrative and cinematic synergy. Essentially, he looks for a way to have his films' most prominent themes come through as the resolution to his protagonist's journey.
Source: Fandor
10 Storytelling and Directing Tips Inspired by Akira Kurosawa
Learn from one of the greatest directors of all time.
In the pantheon of cinematic greats, Akira Kurosawa stands as a towering figure, a master storyteller whose influence transcends time and borders. His works, characterized by their epic narratives, exquisite visuals, and emotional depth, continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Kurosawa's unique approach to directing and storytelling has become a subject of study and admiration. As we explore the wisdom distilled from his illustrious career, we find timeless lessons that go beyond the confines of genre and culture. These principles serve not only as a blueprint for aspiring directors but also as a testament to Kurosawa's enduring legacy in the art of filmmaking.
The Humanistic Cinema of Akira Kurosawawww.youtube.com
1. Trust Your Gut
'Rashomon'
Credit: Everett Collection
Kurosawa emphasized the importance of a director's intuition. This suggests that when faced with creative decisions, it’s often valuable to listen to your gut feeling. This could mean choosing an unconventional shot or narrative direction that feels right, even if it challenges traditional methods or the opinions of collaborators.
2. Study The Masters
Akira Kurosawa working with a cinema camera on the set of
Credit: BFI
By examining the works of great directors, one can learn various aspects of filmmaking, such as shot composition, pacing, and storytelling.
Kurosawa himself was influenced by filmmakers like John Ford and Jean Renoir and believed in the value of understanding their techniques to refine his own work.
3. Collaborate With Your Actors
Credit: BFI
Actors bring characters to life, and Kurosawa believed in giving them space for interpretation. This includes working closely with them, understanding their perspective, and allowing them to bring their own creativity to their roles, which can result in more authentic and compelling performances.
4. Planning is Paramount
Akira Kurosawa's manual splicing
Credit:
Detailed planning and storyboarding were key to Kurosawa’s approach. He would often sketch out every shot before filming.
This level of preparation ensures that every visual element serves the story and can help in executing complex scenes more efficiently.
5. It's all in the Details
Akira Kurosawa on the set of ‘Yojimbo’
Credit: Film Magazine
In Kurosawa’s view, the minutiae of a film—such as the costumes, set design, and props—were crucial in creating a believable world.
Attention to these details helps to immerse the audience and can subtly enhance the storytelling.
6. It's Okay to be Silent
'Throne of Blood'
Credit: Toho
Silence can be as powerful as dialogue or music. Kurosawa harnessed silence to build suspense and convey emotion, using it to draw the audience in and focus their attention on the visual storytelling.
7. Learn From Mistakes
'High and Low'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa was not afraid to recognize his own mistakes and saw them as learning opportunities. This principle encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and resilience in the creative process.
8. Keep a Handle on Emerging Technology
'The Hidden Fortress'
Credit: Toho
Always curious about the latest developments, Kurosawa integrated new technologies into his filmmaking. This openness to innovation can lead to new ways of storytelling and can give a unique aesthetic to films.
9. Maintain Your Vision
'Dreams'
Credit: Warner Bros.
A director must have a clear vision for the film and remain true to it throughout the process. This can sometimes mean resisting studio pressure or popular trends to create a work that is authentic and personal.
10. Let Passion Guide You
'Seven Samurai'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa’s passion for filmmaking was evident in his dedication to his craft. This principle suggests that great art comes from a place of deep commitment and enthusiasm, and that passion is infectious, often inspiring the entire cast and crew to strive for excellence.
In honoring Kuroswas's legacy, we continue the quest for storytelling that resonates, transforms, and endures. For filmmakers and storytellers looking to craft their own masterpieces, let Kurosawa's spirit guide your cinematic adventures.
May your films be as bold, as beautiful, and as profoundly human as the ones he left us.
Now go make something.