Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Comparing Le Jetee, the short, and 12 Monkeys, the full-length movie

 What's up guys! Today I will be comparing Le Jetee, the short film and 12 monkeys the full-length movie. 

Takeaways from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tT8lpQz3N8&t=55s:

- "La Jetée" demonstrates revolutionary storytelling through still images and narration, proving that innovative techniques can create powerful narratives

- The circular narrative structure shows how complex stories can be effectively told in a short format

- Both films excel at building atmospheric post-apocalyptic worlds while maintaining focus on personal, emotional stories

- The use of memory as both a plot device and thematic element is masterfully handled

Good Information Gathered:

- The power of minimalist storytelling - using limited resources to maximum effect

- How to handle complex time-travel narratives without losing emotional impact

- The importance of strong visual composition, even in still images

- Effective use of voiceover narration to drive story and create atmosphere

How This Helps Through Short Film Process:

- Demonstrates that limitations (budget and equipment) can become creative advantages

- Shows how to structure non-linear narratives effectively

- Provides examples of how to balance personal stories with larger themes

- Illustrates techniques for creating atmosphere with limited resources


Takeaways from https://filmicmag.com/2015/12/29/a-comparison-of-12-monkeys-la-jetee/:

- La Jetée's groundbreaking approach combines still monochrome images with omniscient narration to create a cohesive narrative

- The article highlights how the film uses memory as a central theme, particularly through the jetée (pier) scene which frames the entire narrative

- 12 Monkeys expands on La Jetée's concepts while maintaining its own distinct identity

- Both films effectively use science fiction elements to explore deeper human themes

Good Information Gathered:

- The World War III setting in La Jetée provides context for the experimental nature of the story

- The significance of the pier scene as both beginning and end of the narrative

- How Terry Gilliam adapted and expanded the original concept for 12 Monkeys

- The way both films handle memory and time as interconnected elements

How This Helps Through Short Film Process:

1. Story Structure:

- Shows how to frame a story around a single powerful image or moment

- Demonstrates effective use of circular narrative structure

- Illustrates how to balance complex ideas with clear storytelling

2. Technical Approach:

- Provides examples of innovative visual techniques

- Shows how to use narration effectively

- Demonstrates how to create atmosphere with limited resources

3. Thematic Development:

- Shows how to layer meaning and subtext within a simple framework

- Demonstrates how to handle complex themes in an accessible way

- Illustrates how to connect personal stories to larger ideas

4. Adaptation Techniques:

- Shows how to maintain core themes while adapting to different formats

- Demonstrates how to expand upon existing ideas while maintaining originality

- Illustrates how different technical approaches can serve similar narrative goals


Notes for My Film:

- Make creative use of technical limitations

- Structure complex narratives effectively

- Build an atmosphere through minimal means

- Use memory and time as narrative devices

- Balance personal stories with larger themes

- Create emotional impact through innovative techniques


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