What makes any art form, art? Unfortunately, it is something that cannot be clearly defined. Art is subjective, which makes it impossible to absolutely determine what should be appreciated or not.
Technically anything can be considered art.
Even so, certain movies are surely held in higher regard than others. Perhaps you are a prodigious admirer, a budding filmmaker or you just want to deepen your taste of movies. So, let’s try to narrow down the characteristics that make films respectable in the cinema world.
How does one decipher between regular entertainment and an exceptional piece of moving image? What are some key attributes when seeking an excellent pick?
First, note that art films are not necessarily highbrow, stiff, or boring as many might wrongly assume. And they do not have to be about “art”. They can fall into various genres, including comedy, romance, and horror; and do not need to be far removed from popular culture. They can be quite entertaining and engaging.
Emotion
A good artistic movie should make some emotional connection with the characters, the plot, and the audience. Like all forms of art, the complexity and depth of the tie will differ per onlooker but overall, there should be some meaningful effect on the viewer. Basically, you should feel something.
Cinematography
One must study the art of motion-picture photography when creating great movies. The producers must know their stuff. Gifted cinematographers will use creative and effective camera angles, composition, lighting, and color all to help communicate a specific mood. Scene by scene.
Also, the type of camera used plays a major role in the look and essence. For example, using digital versus film stock affects the spectrum and contrast of lighting and the richness of the colors.
Editing
Editing happens post-production. It gives the production a voice as the editor is responsible for the pacing of the film, and cohesively synching the audio and the visual. Continuity editing should be seamless and help the audience flow through each cut without distraction. Another key element is the color scheme.
Editing a film in black and white often adds an artistic element to a movie but it must make a major statement in other components, like a strong soundtrack to make up for the lack of color.
Camera Movement
The camera is sometimes considered an invisible character. Expert movements can influence the story by revealing unspoken details and intensify the tension of a scene. Skilled techniques for camera changes, like close-ups or pans, draw your attention in or away from a feature, progressively shifting the energy of the film.
Timelessness
The plot and visuals must be memorable for years to come. An art film will typically leave a deep impression on its viewers. They should be left with some enduring life lesson or lingering question about being.
Narrative Format
Traditional movies typically have straightforward, uncomplicated plots that follow a standard structure for delivery. experimental films typically go out of their way to break the formula to create more unconventional, nonlinear narratives with complicated and profound levels in the storyline.
Budget?
Many “artsy” films might be independently and modestly produced. They are commonly premiered and screened in select art houses and theaters. However, some are created on an expensive Hollywood mainstream budget utilizing big-name casts. Though, they almost aways steer away from costly CGI to maintain a more authentic, true-to-life appearance, which helps to keep costs to a minimum. Indie pictures generally appeal to their audiences through unique and creative storytelling techniques, rather than expensive special effects.
Lastly, it must be beautiful. Art films should be fascinating and aesthetically pleasing!
Whilst many art films will encompass these qualities, there is no clear-cut checklist of requirements to distinguish what makes a film a true work of art, as the conditions are quite flexible and ever-changing. It is wise to take the inventory with a grain of salt. Always keep an open mind and feel free to indulge in any movies that suit your inclinations.
Notable Art Movies
Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
Citizen Kane (1941)
Frida (2002)
Pollock (2000)
Momento (2000)
The Pianist (2002)
Like Water for Chocolate (Como Agua para
Chocolate) (1992)
Poor Little Rich Girl (1965)
Falco (2008)
The Hours and Times (1991)
Salomé (1923)
What else do you believe makes cinema artistic? What other renowned or favorite art films can you think of to add to the list?
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