This document discusses and analyzes several shot types used in the preliminary of a film, including the 180 degree rule, match-on-action, shot/reverse-shot, cross-cutting, and over-shoulder shots. The 180 degree rule was used to film a conversation clearly. Match-on-action was used to build suspense by showing papers being dropped. Shot/reverse-shot clarified actions. Cross-cutting created continuity between two characters. An over-shoulder shot built mystery and suspense during an exploration of a basement. These shot types are commonly used in thrillers to convey specific meanings and emotions.

1. Preliminary 9 Shot Analysis
By Luc Amaden

3. 180 Degree Rule
In this 180 degree rule sequence that we incorporated into our preliminary here the main
character is shown to be having a conversation with his doppelganger. To apply another type
of shot would only confuse the viewer, as the camera only stays on one side to provide the
expected position of shots to the audience. This allows for a simple but effective portrayal of
dialogue and interaction between the two characters. In all thrillers this type of shot is
common.

4. Match on action
Here we used match-on-action to portray the release of the papers and the resulting
collision of them with the floor. As shown the papers are shown in one shot to be
suspended in the doppelganger’s hand, and then the next is them landing on the floor.
We used this shot to build suspense before the doppelganger’s identity is revealed; the
papers are seen as a motive to the doppelgangers, the emphasis upon their placement
builds importance upon them, suggesting that they are meaningful. This creates a sense
of mystery in this scene, and that is exactly the right atmosphere that we want for this
moment of vital revelation of the plot. In thrillers this usually builds up suspense to
another shot as the camera focuses on an object and in many cases the audience do not
know what the next shot will reveal, such as in this one.

5. Shot/Reverse/Shot
Here a shot looking up to my figure is shown, whilst following after is another behind me
revealing my action. This shot was put in to allow the audience to understand the situation;
my intention is to take the broom to clean with it. Consequently the following shots are
naturally understood by the audience and this technique purely just secures this. Generically
thrillers tend to incorporate this shot for the same intention to clarify and to create a sense of
continuity that makes the film run more realistically.

6. Other Key Shots
• The following slides are shots from my
preliminary that are not included in the 9
shot.

7. Cross-cutting
In our film we used cross-cutting to create a sense of continuity; the
protagonist is moving closer to the doppelganger. The flicking papers
shows that there is some sort of disturbance in the building, and the
shot sequence emphasises the obliviousness of the janitor which
then creates an effective build up throughout the rest of the film
following this. In thrillers these shots are generally used to uphold a
notion of continuity when two characters are gradually coming
closer until they clash.

8. Over-shoulder shot
Here is a very long over-shoulder shot that we filmed. This was done to make
the viewer feel that they are exploring and experiencing the dissension into
the basement; it creates a large sense of mystery and suspense. The long
length of the shot makes the plot seem more real and more convincing, as
the lack of editing at this part reflects the wariness and caution that the
character portrays.