Short Film Analysis - 'Rewind' by Atul Taishete

Here is the analysis of the short film 'Rewind", a nine minute film directed by Atul Taishete. This film uses intriguing filming and narrative techniques, that have remained largely untried and under-developed.

Camerawork

The film has used The majority of the shots used within this short film are zoom panning shots. The camera is zooming in and out accordingly to match the actions that occur within the piece. The progressive nature of these shots also adds to the fluidity of the piece, giving it a far more effective appearance. Furthermore, the close up of the gun whilst the main character is putting bullets into it adds a great deal of effect, as the consumer will associate the bullet with an impending danger.

Sound

The sound within this piece constitutes of both diagetic sound and non-diagetic sound. diagetic sound within the piece includes the whirring sounds in the background of an air conditioning unit. The sound makes the scene feel uneasy and at time uncomfortable. Further diagetic sound comes in the form of card shuffling and gun spinning within the piece. This adds further suspense to the film, as the smaller details are accentuated.

The non diagetic sound on the contrary consists of the mans voice over. The calm manor in which the dialogue is delivered further disorientates the viewer, as the narrative is fairly dark throughout. Furthermore The rewind of events within the piece means that the chronology of the events that the man is talking about is in reverse.

Editing

The clip is edited in a way to make the events within the film seem as fluid as is possible. Throughout the entirity of the clip, there are only a few transitions made. This adds to the effect of the video, as the viewer is able to intake all of the actions and surroundings, improving the video's appearance. Furthermore, the way in which it is edited makes the clip easier for the audience to relate to. The reason for this is that it bears a greater resemblance to reality, whereas the incorporation of a great deal of transitions makes it seem less realistic.

Mise-en-Scene

The use of props within this film are essential to telling the storyline. Perhaps the most important of these props is the gun. The entirety of the plot revolves around the gun, and the Russian roulette game they are playing. Whilst there are other props that are used, they bear far less significance to the plot, and are more background details.

The lighting within this piece is done through both natural and artificial sources. The majority of the narrative occurs under artificial light in the dark dingy room where it is set. The overhead lights, illuminating only parts of the room accentuates the shadowing of the location, creation an even more ominous narrative.