Practice Paper/Exam Question

Practice Paper: Merlin Season 1 Episode 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_F6Oblg04SE&feature=channel&list=UL (5:50 onwards)

In this essay I will analyse and discuss the way camera shots, angles and movement represent class and status in this extract from 'Merlin.'

The first shot is a long shot/establishing shot, introducing the audience to the surroundings in which the characters will be operating. In the opening scene we see a princess introduced via a zoom and pan shot. The shot is a mid-shot, allowing us to see the clothes she wears, by which we know of her class and status, which is higher than that of Merlin, to whom we were earlier introduced to. The audience already has a preview of this when they witnessed Merlin 'sneaking' around a room containing an altar, upon which were placed several object, including a jewel-studded book which Merlin uncovers and picks up. This was the first indication that there was another person in the vicinity with a higher status and Merlin's quiet and sneaky actions combined with this reinforce this. A rapid zoom on a voodoo doll which he consequently grabs, giving the viewer insight into what he will do, through his point of view. Also, when Merlin 'escapes' the room and the witch/princess, he stepts infront of a stained glass window, a long shot. The connotations of this may hint at the unatural powers, as stained glass window are usually found in churches and other holy places. This belief can be reinforced by the fact that the witch/princess stops in front of it as well, foreshadwoing the consequent eventsm telling the audience of their equal status in unique powers.

Merlin then exits the castle is is 'followed' from a high boom angle, giving the connotations of a small, insignificant, powerless person. When he enters the market, the camera tracks him via contolled eye-level pan, indicating that he is comfortable  here. Comfort, which is usuall associated with class and status, showing that Merlin has been here often and knows his way around the area. This indicates to the audience that he is working class, which one can also tell from his clothes, as are many of the other people in the scene. One realizes that is a place that he frequently patronizes.

After meeting Lord Athur, a fight ensues between the two men. Shot reverse shot is used as the two men trade insults. Before the actual fighting commenses, a fast boom shot is used, showing Athur twirling a mace above his head and Merlin stepping backward.  This indicates fear, but not one to social status or class, rather than fear of being hurt. This is used to help change the mood from comical to violent and sets the next scene.

U N F I N I S H E D