'Interstellar's' Ticking Clock: Hiding Suspense in Plain Sight
In 'Interstellar,' Christopher Nolan and Hans Zimmer hid suspense in a place where no one would see it: in the music.
There are many ways to ramp up the tension in a scene, whether it's by tightening shots, changing the lighting, or introducing troubling information about a character. However, perhaps one of the most obvious ways to do this is by incorporating into the scene a "ticking clock," a storytelling device that essentially gives an action a deadline in which it has to be completed. Many films use this technique to increase tension, whether by stating the deadline through dialogue or by including a literal ticking clock countdown, but these kinds of approaches can be a little too on the nose, lacking subtlety and cleverness, many times taking away the audience's chance to contextualize information on their own and feel the raw emotions of a cinematic scene.
However, in this video essay, Adam Tinius of Entertain the Elk explains how director Christopher Nolan and film score composer Hans Zimmer worked to use the ticking clock device to build tension in the 2014 sci-fi film Interstellar while also maintaining a level of subtlety that would allow audiences to avoid clunky expositional scenes—and a digital countdown.
There's nothing wrong with telling your audience that certain actions must be completed in a certain amount of time, whether through dialogue or a literal ticking clock (though the latter is pretty cliché at this point). Plenty of films enter the second act through a "you've got this much time to come up with the money" calls to adventure and they work great. But what if your film doesn't have an external conflict that must be completed in a certain amount of time? Or what if you just don't want to be that blatant with your ticking clock?
Well, as you can see from Interstellar, music is a really economical and effective way of building tension. You're not using any words or actions, you're not hitting your audience over the head with information—you're cleverly using the tempo of a film score or piece of music to convince your audience subconsciously that this moment is very important and time is running out.
Nolan and Zimmer are by no means the only artists who use this convention. Ennio Morricone did amazing work in Brian de Palma's 1987 gangster film The Untouchables, namely during the "Union Station" scene. It not only uses several clock motifs but it also uses the sound of a heavy stroller rhythmically hitting stairs as Kevin Costner's character, Eliot Ness, pulls it up as he waits for the arrival of a bunch of dangerous gangsters.
What are some other films that utilize the ticking clock device the way Nolan and Zimmer or de Palma and Morricone did? Let us know down in the comments.
Source: Entertain the Elk
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.