Research Movie #1

 WAVES

Due to the fact that romantic films usually have cliche storylines and scripts, the visuals are usually exceptional. This film has fantastic cinematography with beautiful color/lighting, rotation of the camera to give multiple character views in the car, images of the characters swimming in the gorgeous ocean, well framed shots, and more.Waves (2019) Is the perfect example of a film with beautiful visuals within the romantic film genre. This is a romance/sport drama that delves into the lives of two siblings. It begins with the story of Tyler, the older brother who is put under lots of pressure by his father and mother in law. The only thing that makes Tyler feel at peace and fulfilled, is his “goddess” Alexis. To film uses a multitude of elements to allow the viewers to understand this phenomenon. First off, when the two are together, the lighting of the film dramatically shifts. When Tyler is in his room, with his father, or at practice, the lighting is sad and the exposure is extremely low, to indicate unhappiness:  

When he’s with Alexis, however, the tone still remains blue, the hue is much more pleasing. Furthermore, the exposure is brighter, visuals are clearer, and the characters expressions are more in focus. EVEN AT NIGHT! 

It is further shown that romance plays a crucial role in lighting within this film, as these are the American shots but differ as one is with his significant other, and the other with his not deeply loved mother in law.

Not only does the lighting play a key element in this film, but also the shots. The film uses closer shots like medium, close up, and extreme close ups when Alexis and Tyler are together. Not only does this allow viewers to see the expressions of love, but also is symbolic of how close they are to one another. 

MUSICCC, my favorite part. Waves takes place in South Florida, mostly at the beach and homes. Majority of the film expresses a suburban lifestyle of teenagers experiencing young love. This is why the song choice, in my opinion, was absolutely perfect. The film contained music from popular artists amongst the teenage population today, like Tyler the Creator and H.E.R. This made the movie further reach their target audience as music is a big piece of connection and appeal.

When all the components are layered, a unique visually and auditorium appealing romance is created :)

How does Waves relate to our film?

Our film, like waves is also clearly about young love, instead ours in love at first sight. (Will be researched in next posting) We also find lots of inspiration in the shot ideas and lighting, especially since our film would be taking place at the film, like waves romance scenes did. Moreover, we will also be using similar music to the ones used within Waves. Slow r&b artists like SZA, Tyler the Creator, ASAP Rocky, etc. 

Since our film will also be taking place in south Florida, this film helps us achieve the suburban teenager feel through the potential b-roll examples, mise-en-scene elements, and even slangs used within the film.

We’re so excited to have come across this film to research and to adopt so many beautiful components to use within our short film :)