Textual Analysis: The Copper Key Race

Textual Analysis: The Copper Key Race

TASK ONE: Before you complete the tasks below, re-watch the following clip that shows the Copper Key Race. Add to your textual analysis grid any notes on the following:

Camera Shots/Angles:

Sound:

Editing:

Mise en Scene:

Ready Player One: Copper Key Race

TASK TWO: After you have watched this clip a few times and have extensive notes I would like you to answer the following three questions in paragraphs ensuring that you have included the following key terminology or similar that you can find here:

1. How does Spielberg use the camera to create effects? Refer to two or three specific examples. Key terminology: Establishing shot, long shot, close up, slow motion, panning, tracking, zooming

2. What elements of mise en scene help to engage the audience? Refer to two or three specific examples. Keywords: Intertextuality, Audience, Costume, Representation.

3. How is sound used in conjunction with editing to make the scene exciting?
Keywords: Diegetic, non-diegetic, soundtrack, dialogue 

TASK THREE: Select two or three frames from the race (SHIFT + PRINTSCREEN) and conduct a close textual analysis of the frames you have selected.

Remember for each frame you selected comment on the following:

Camera Shot/Angle
Mise en Scene
Editing
Sound

Use the following questions to help you formulate your thoughts.

What camera shot/angle has been used and why? How does it make the audience feel about what is on-screen?

What mise en scene elements can you see on screen? How do these help to set the scene? Do they suggest something about the character? Do they help to engage the audience?

How has the scene been cut? How does this help to create pace? Are there any important cutaways?

What sounds is being used? What is the effect of this? Does it make it real or more intense?


TASK FOUR: Answer the following question in your books; try to use a What? How? Why? answer format.

How does Spielberg engage his audience in The Copper Key Race?

ADVICE:

- Address the question straight away.

- Begin with one key element (e.g.: camera shots)

- Move onto another key element (mise en scene)
- You should be aiming for a page of A4 split into four paragraphs (Sound, Camera Shots/Angles, Editing, Mise en Scene)





EXTENSION: Conduct a textual analysis of the following clip.

Holy Hand Grenade Scene

Remember to use the following key areas of textual analysis:
- Camera Shot/Angle
- Sound
- Editing
- Mise en Scene

Answer the following question when done so:

How does Spielberg position his audience on the side of the Wade and Artemis? Refer to media language to support your points.