Sunrise- Jeremy Brinson

The techniques used in Sunrise were innovative and risky. For example, the merging of different actions into one simultaneous scene was a special effect that was far from the norm. This technique was perfect for representing the meshing of ideas in one’s mind. Also, the early use of a green screen provided a rush to the movie. these new techniques, combined with the different shots, lenses, and lighting used, all combined to make one cornerstone movie.

A good example of this advanced cinematography would be the scene in Sunrise where the husband is strangling the city woman. The different components it took to create this scene were all perfect choices. First would be the shot. A close up of the couple, framing them at an angle instead of a full side shot, helped to create a dynamic setup that really complemented the momentum of the action in the shot. Something to also be noted is how the two were captured as blurred. The blurriness of the two help to reflect the senses of both the husband and the city woman. His mind is clouded with the conflicting emotions roiling around in his head, while the woman is lightheaded from the lack of oxygen to her brain and lungs. The setup was also well arranged. With the two to the left of the screen and the path leading back to the house in the background, there is a sense of anxiety that is coupled with the violence of the scene. With the path still in the shot, the audience is reminded that the two are not that far from the villagers and that they can be spotted at any moment. Lastly, the choice of lighting also added to the already dynamic shot. The use of an intense spotlight that is tilted upon the couple so that its edges of light reach for the house helps to complete the intensity of the scene. Also, with the light tilted instead of beaming directly upon the two actors, it makes it look like moonlight, giving it a more realistic and believable setting.