Explain what cinematic techniques are used to enhance your understanding and

enjoyment of the battle scenes in ‘Braveheart’.

In your essay you should cover the following techniques:•Representation•Camera Angles and Shots•Sound•Montage (Editing)

In pairs, try to write a plan for this essay. You will first need to work out what aspects of the film (hint: you will discuss with respect to the four techniques above).

Essay 2 – Battle Scenes

Points to remember

• ALWAYS refer back to the wording of the question at the beginning and end of each paragraph

• Check your work for technical accuracy – spelling, punctuation, grammar, correct sentence structures

• Ensure that you provide analysis

• Try to include quotations

• Introduction– Introduce the film and the key scenes that you will be

discussing in the essay– Mention the techniques that you will discuss in the essay– Ensure that you refer to the question – i.e. use the wording

of the question in your answer!!!!

• The Pre-Battle– Outline the mood and atmosphere before Wallace arrives on

the battlefield– Explain that representation and sound are the cinematic

techniques used to enhance the audience’s understanding– Define representation and explain that it is used to set up the

scene: English vs. Scottish and the impression created– Describe the music that is used here too and the

atmosphere that it creates

• Arrival of Wallace– Explain that the atmosphere changes when Wallace

arrives– You should discuss the representation of Wallace

and his companions and their impact on the Scottish army (determination to win vs. believing they will lose)

– You should discuss the difference in the sound and explain how this helps to change the atmosphere

– You should also compare Lochland’s and Wallace’s speeches to highlight the impact of Wallace’s arrival

– Remember to use quotations where appropriate

• The First Battle Charge– Explain how camera angles and sound help to

create drama and tension during the heavy horse charge

– Define diagetic and non-diagetic sound and analyse the use of this cinematic technique during the sequence when the horses charge

– You should analyse the significance of at least two different camera angles used during this sequence

– You should define montage / scene editing and discuss the importance of the cutting between the horses and the Scottish army during this scene

• The Battle – Explain how camera angles and sound help to make the

audience feel directly in the midst of the battle – You should focus on both diagetic and non-diagetic sound

and analyse the use of this cinematic technique– You should analyse the significance of at least three different

camera angles– You should define montage / scene editing and discuss the

importance of the short quick cuts during the battle

• Wallace’s Victory– State what angle is used to focus on Wallace at the end of

the battle scene – Describe how he behaves – Explain the significance of this scene and analyse the effect

of the music in enhancing it

• Conclusion– Summarise the techniques that you have discussed

in the essay– Give your opinion upon what cinematic techniques

were most effective in enhancing your enjoyment and understanding of the scenes.

• Job done!!!!!!!