An analysis of the cinematic techniques that are used in the portrayal of the 'outsider' in films. Why are such films popular and what do they tell us about society as a whole? GCSE A grade.

Essay by kiara_zzyopen March 2004

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We looked at three films from the 1980's and 1990's - 'The Elephant Man', 'Edward Scissorhands' and 'Rain Man'. An outsider is someone who has been rejected by society. They are treated differently, usually worse, than 'normal' person either because they look or act differently. I think John Merrick, Edward and Raymond make good protagonists because you empathise with them. You start to feel how someone who is made fun of feels and because they look different or act strangely you don't forget them quickly, which is what the director wants. All three protagonists are treated like freaks, which makes them interesting choices for main characters. Films can use cinematography to show an outsider. Things like camera angles, composition, lighting and music are examples of successful techniques to show an outsider.

The first film we watched was 'The Elephant Man' directed by David Lynch. It was released in 1980 and starred Anthony Hopkins as Dr Treves, John Hurt as John Merrick, Anne Bancroft as Mrs Kendall, Sir John Gielgud as Carr Gomms and Michael Elphick as the villain.

The Elephant Man is part of a freak show, he is 'owned' by Bytes. When Dr Treves wants to see the Elephant Man he realises that he is ill and takes him to the hospital. Dr Treves first uses the Elephant Man, John Merrick for his experiments but while John Merrick is staying in the hospital their friendship grows. Dr Treves learns about Merrick's talent of drawing and his wish to be normal. At one point Merrick is kidnapped by Bytes but he escapes and goes to the station wearing a mask to go back to the hospital. Someone takes his mask and he runs only to be followed. Merrick comes to a dead end at...