Reese’s Enquiry – What makes a film EPIC?
A group of vinyl figures known as the popcorn snobs are running this blog for the next 22 days, in what they’re calling ‘The Taking of A-Z.’ Enjoy!
Hello to everyone, I am Reese and I’m requesting your help in settling an ongoing disagreement that Kesha and I usually have when we go to the cineplex. She claims there is only one key element that determines whether a film will turn out to be truly epic or not – acting. However, I don’t see things that way because it all depends on the type of movie you’re watching.
To me, epic films are the kinds that play well in a theater setting because different elements are working together so well that you have to see it on the big screen to get (and appreciate) the “full effect” of a movie in all its glory. The sound is so riveting that you don’t even realize how it’s playing with your emotions. The cinematography is breathtaking that you might think you’re actually there. The acting performances are so captivating that you feel like what you’re watching is real. The directing is so smooth that everything you’re watching looks like it belongs.
There’s nothing out of place that is making you question some aspect of the film. The script flows with characters that are so bold and unforgettable, you learn a lot about yourself from watching them. The editing is so smooth and extraordinary that you feel like you’re being taken on an exhilarating journey – one that will eventually come to an end but you’re fine when that happens because you got what you needed.
Extraordinary editing delivers nothing more and nothing less that you need to see or experience. In fact, if there was one element that is crucial to the recipe for making an epic film, I would say editing is it!
Extraordinary editing can make you forget you’re sitting in a theater amongst hundreds of strangers, watching a piece of fiction play out before your very eyes. It can take you into the future, make you relive the past and bring you back to the present, all without missing a beat. It can keep you on the edge of your seat, so wrapped up in a scene that you’re anxiously waiting to find out what happens next.
What element(s) do YOU think a film needs to be truly EPIC?
Reese is a popcorn snob who enjoys the art of making movies and believes they were meant to be seen at the theater, not on computers or mobile devices. She likes socializing about all things related to cinema, dancing, music and cute hairstyles.
Reader Comments (4)
I agree with your definitions of "epic" when it comes to films. I give a film two thumbs up if it ends before I realize it's been a good two hours. If a film can keep my attention, it's epic in my book!
Thanks for stopping by B(e) Kind 366.
Brandy
I sooo agree with you! All of the elements of filmmaking must gel to make a film considered Epic. And there is just something about the Big Screen experience that you can't get at home, no matter the size of your TV or the decibels in your surround sound. You nailed it. Epic films defined!
Michele at Angels Bark
www.angelsbark.wordpress.com
One element in an epic film--at least for me--is the music. It has to be big and sweep me away in its sound. I think another element is what I'd call a "grand view." Dramatic scenery and panoramic shots.
Music is so important, but you make a lot of great points about the editing!
Heather