Task: Watch a clip from ‘Barton Fink’ and choose a 1 minute section to try and write out from memory. Then go back to that section and pause the video, writing out the script again but in more detail this time. After this compare it with the Coen Brother’s script.
Observations: I felt that my first attempt only consisted of me trying to remember the action of the scene with very little detail listed. Then on my second attempt I was able to add detail and notice the pacing of the scene more, allowing me to build on the tone and atmosphere of the scene that overall created a clearer narrative.
However, in comparison to the original script, I still missed out some very important and precise details that perfectly set up the scene. The production design of the lobby is outlined so clearly, for example, “brass cuspidors turning green” and “wilting potted palms”. They are also very specific with how the action relates to camera positioning, something I totally ignored in my attempt. I think that all these details and very specific notes on the pacing of the scene build a very strong vision and allows a clear synergy between all the departments due to this clarity. I imagine it helps to translate that vision across all departments and ultimately leads to a film that is strong in it’s style and tone.
Link to my attempts:
PCA Isobel Wilkinson - BA Film 