Realism, Classicism, and Formalism

Realism

As odd as it might sound, The Wizard of Oz is edited with the style of realism. As shown within this clip from the film, there are not many cuts transitioning from different shots. For the most part, the camera simply follows the movement of the actors, such as when the scarecrow rolls over and then proceeds to dance around the set. Where the director could have chosen to cut these shots and follow up different angles and perspectives, they run singular, long tapes of recording and follow the action. In the second half of the clip, the scarecrow and Dorthy converse over the topic of traveling to the wizard, and instead of cutting between close ups of each character, we remain in one view, as if standing there and watching the two speak with one another, and gives the piece a more realistic feel in the sense of that there really are not that many different angles used while cutting the scenes.

Classicism

Tim Burton's take on the classic of Alice in Wonderland really does utilize the editing style of classicism. As we watch the clip of Haymitch's proposal to Alice and her running off to chase the White Rabbit, if we pay close attention to the shots, it becomes clear that this editing style was used. There are many cuts in between dialogue as the two speak to one another, utilizing close ups on the characters. This style also enforces the reactions of the crowd as they watch the two, and follow up actions, such as when Alice looks away, we we the picture of the crowd to look through her own eyes. This sequence uses very short shots, but the meaning behind each is clear cut, and adds to the effect of the mood and enhances the story. But even when there is no dialogue being exchanged, when Alice bolts from the gazebo to chase the white rabbit, the cuts are very sharp and short, yet add a fluid movement to the clip. We see Alice, where she's running, who she's chasing, etc. It all adds to our understanding to the event that is occurring and is able to keep our interest with continuously changing angles and shot types, utilizing many different aspects that can be captured within camera work.

Formalism

This clip from the Hunger Games clearly shows through the use of formalism while creating this scene. Adrenaline is supposed to be rushing, blood is supposed to be pumping, and death is supposed to be coming. Therefore, smooth, clear cut shots and cuts just aren't going to "cut" it as our main character is about to rush into, very possibly, her death. Therefore the picture itself is very shaky and sporadic, and the cuts have to match. As the timer counts down, we get images of the area around the characters, the cornucopia, the characters themselves, supplies, weapons, etc. This style of cutting sporadically between objects and close ups and random yet logically important objects flash across the screen all add to the anxious, adrenaline-pulsing mood of the scene.