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the crisis, the close-ups (of his clenched hands, of his feet as he paces up and down in agony, of his hand as he brings out his watch and replaces it before he can see the time) serve to increase the tenseness and to emphasize the feeling of anxiety. Where else are close-ups effectively used? For what purpose?
3. Soft focus is a device to obtain an image not sharply defined, usually by placing gauze on the camera lens or using a specially-ground lens. Describe an effective use of soft focus in this picture.
4. Double exposure is obtained by exposing a negative film at two separate times before development. The two images will then appear combined on the film when developed. What is the purpose of this device? Describe two good examples in this picture.
5. A stage property is often used as a symbol for an idea or an emotion. The signal fire symbolizes Elizabeth's desire to return to her old life and "civilization." In the last shot she stamps out the embers, symbolizing her decision to stay with William. What other use of symbols has been made?
6. The director, by collaboration with the cinematographer, can often compress a page of printed material into one camera shot. Robinson's important decision and his famliy history are all revealed in the one shot of his application to leave England for Australia. Find similar examples of pictorial compression or striking condensation for the sake of economy in story-telling, not only in Swiss Family Robinson, but in other films.
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1. "Humor in motion pictures should fit naturally into the situation and should not be used merely as relief," says Edgar Dale in How to Appreciate Motion Pictures. Discuss this with reference to Swiss Family Robinson and other recent films.
2. Mr. Dale also says, "One of the most important things the motion picture can do is to show you truthfully the consequences that come from making certain choices in life." How does the plot of this film measure up to Mr. Dale's standard?
3. For what type of movie-goer would you recommend this film? Why?
4. What is the most exciting scene? What serves to make it so? Discuss acting, photography, lighting, sound, and direction.
5. "Forces in opposition to each other make for suspense — and suspense is the life-blood of drama." How is this statement borne out in the treatment of this plot? Cite some good examples of suspense. What means has the director employed to secure suspense?
6. Where does the climax occur? Defend your choice of scene by defining climax and outlining the plotstructure.
7. Is the conclusion satisfactory? Does it follow naturally from the preceding action or is it strained?
8. What is the difference between the film of social significance and the film of escape? What is the purpose of each? Which has the greater boxoffice appeal? Why? Can the two purposes ever be combined in one film?