5 minute extract --> 1:04:00 - 1:09:16 (Top Gun)
1. What was the rational for choosing this selection? I chose this selection because it is the one moment we get to sympathize greatly with our main character Maverick. It demonstrated the factual side of the world as a whole, where things do go wrong. Under controlled exercises with the Navy, this selection cautions the audience through a theme that you should always watch out since there is always an unexpected turn of events that may occur.
2. How does the extract relate to the film as a whole?
The scene I chose relates to the film because it summarizes aspects and the drama genre of the film all in one five minute time frame. In the beginning of the extract, Maverick and Iceman exchange sarcastic banter and through facial expressions, Iceman is annoyed with Maverick with a glum look while Maverick is smiling like a little kid getting presents. Later in the scene, Iceman pulls away rapidly from in front of Mavericks jet causing an inverted dive that kills Goose. This is important in my selection because Mavericks worst nightmares of messing up and living up to his fathers reputation has come to reality. This will later affect his ability to fly and then be a motivation to overcome the odds of those who turned down Mavericks trust.
3. How is the film constructed according to the narrative/story being told?
The film is constructed in a way where the dog fights that occur will always lead to a dramatic finally that ends up either improving or demoralizing Mavericks personality, additionally it will change how the other fly boys see Maverick as a trustworthy pilot. Throughout the film, Maverick is provoked by the people in his squadron to be a more cautious pilot. Maverick, being a rebel young pilot attempts at showing that you can enjoy defeating dirt bags instead of seeing them as random targets. Dogfights provoke Mavericks need for flying recklessly and throughout the movie he must learn to cope with this thrill in order to assure the safety of his teammates.
4. Is the narrative organized by plot or time sequence? character or plot driven?
This narrative follows a plot sequence where there is a setup, conflict, and resolution. The setup is where the characters are introduced. Maverick and Goose first appear and we see them as pals while later we find Iceman to be the slick fighter pilot and Charlie who will Mavericks love interest.
The conflict appears near the beginning where Cougar (who is the best pilot in Mavericks old squadron) freaks out and leaves the navy providing two empty slots for Maverick and Goose to enter Top Gun flight school. The movie will go through the different missions he has to accomplish in order to receive his top gun wings.
The resolution end with Maverick just barely passing with enough points to be in Top Gun. Although he could have done better, it is common for a fighter pilot to lose a certain edge when it comes to flying after loosing your copilot in a flight accident.
5. Does the film use other principles than narrative as a structure?
The film uses the hidden truth about Mavericks dad as a narrative structure. The question of what really happened to Mavericks father is the concern of him and also his squadron and Viper, the head instructor. The curiosity either propels Maverick to continuing his pursuit for Top Gun or sets him back considerably.
6. What is the nature of our engagement with the characters of the story?
We are engaged because we are attracted to the different types of personalities. Maverick and Iceman share a love hate relationship that develop the story. Maverick is charismatic due to his lusious smile and positive attitude towards any obstacle and opportunity. Iceman on the other hand displays confidence, he is calm, relaxed because he knows what to do. His dislike for Maverick however impedes his ability to support him creating an uneven atmosphere around their peers.
No comments:
Post a Comment