The Power of Production: Exploring the Impact of Lighting and Music in the Film ‘Waves’ by Trey Edward Shults

Paper by Fatima Daiane Pereira da Silva.

Introduction
The film Waves (2019) is a powerful exploration of the complexities of family relationships, tragedy, conflicts, and resolution. Directed by Trey Edward Shults, this fictional narrative film takes viewers on an emotional journey through the lives of a family in the United States. The film presents an emotional journey through the lives of an African-American family, searching into the complexities of human relationships. Falling into the drama genre, it is presented in two distinct parts, each with a different focus. The first half follows the story of Tyler (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), a high school student who is struggling to balance his academic, athletic, and social life. The second half of the film shifts its focus to Tyler’s sister, Emily (Taylor Russell), as she tries to manage her life in the aftermath of a tragic event. The film’s emotional intensity and visually striking elements leave a lasting impression on viewers, making them think and explore the human experience (DARGIS, 2019). This production offers a powerful exploration of family relationships and the emotional connection between the past and future. The party scene serves as a crucial turning point in the narrative, highlighting the consequences of Tyler’s actions and the emotional impact on those around him (GUNN, 2019). By analyzing the film’s lighting, cinematography, and editing in this scene, we can gain a deeper understanding of the film’s complex themes, ultimately leaving a lasting impression on viewers. These techniques create an atmosphere of chaos and disorientation that reflects the emotional state of the characters.

This film revolves around the lives of the father, Ronald (Taylor Russell), who is an authoritarian figure who has high expectations for his children. His son Tyler is a remarkable wrestler, but he is struggling to find the balance between his academic and athletic pursuits. Unfortunately, Tyler’s wrestling career comes to an end when he suffers a severe injury that sets off a series of events. The second half of the film shifts its attention to Emily, while she is dealing with her own personal problems, and the loss of her sibling only intensifies her agony. Moreover, she feels culpable for Tyler’s predicament since she was present when the accident occurred. The film goes through themes of sorrow, absolution, and rebirth through Emily’s journey.

In addition, the party scene marks a crucial point in the narrative, which divides the film into two parts, and it highlights the consequences of Tyler’s actions and the emotional impact on those around him. The film’s lighting, cinematography, and editing in this scene are expertly crafted, adding to the emotional impact of the scene. The use of color, light, and sound creates a surreal and dreamlike quality to the scene, making it all the more emotionally intense. The director, Trey Edward Shults, is known for his emotionally charged and visually striking films. He has a unique approach to storytelling, which allows him to create films that emotionally his audience and are visually stunning. Shults has received critical acclaim for his previous films, such as “Krisha”, and “Waves” is no different. (DARGIS, 2019)

Part 1
The party scene in “Waves” is a powerful moment in the film that sets the stage for the events that follow. After a tense discussion with his father, Tyler is left feeling emotionally broken and distressed. He’s unable to hold off their conversation and decides to go after his girlfriend, Alexis (Alexa Demie), who is attending a party with her friends. As he drives to the party, his mind races with conflicting thoughts. Once he arrives at the party, he is immediately surrounded by the blaring music, flashing lights, and intoxicated laughs. He observes the crowd from a distance, searching for Emily over the chaos. The camera captures Tyler’s point of view, using a series of medium shots and close-ups to emphasize his feelings of anxiety and disorientation. Finally, he spots Alexis in the middle of the dancing crowd and makes his way toward her, and as chaotic as the environment was, their conversation becomes tense. As the attached document, the scene describes all elements involved in each scene, and what impacts it causes on the audience.

During the scene, the camera works with its tremulous, handheld movements and close-ups, creating a sense of urgency and claustrophobia. Additionally, the music, which had been driving the party’s energy, now fades into the background, replaced by tense silence and muffled sounds of the party outside the kitchen. The dialogue between Tyler and Emily becomes increasingly intense, leading to a confrontation that ends in a dramatic and unexpected way.
The use of stylistic elements in this scene is essential to creating a visceral and emotionally charged moment that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. The succession of shots is especially significant as it creates a sense of disorientation and confusion that reflects Tyler’s emotional state (POLAND, 2019). The use of close-ups and quick cuts captures the intensity of the moment and highlights the power dynamic between Tyler and Alexis. For instance, during his passage through the crowd, blue and red lights are flashing in the background, reflecting his confusion, anxiety, depression, sadness, and anger.

In general, the mise-en-scene of the scene is a critical point to demonstrate the connection between how the characters are feeling, and how the audience will receive the message. The gray background and red accents symbolize the blood and death of Alexis, creating a sense of foreboding that intensifies as the scene progresses (BROWN,2012). For example, Alexis was wearing a red dress, and before the conversation, a few red details could be noticed around the gray room. Additionally, the use of low-angle shots emphasizes Tyler’s dominance over Alexis, adding to the scene’s emotional impact and creating a visual representation of the power dynamic between the two characters. For instance, we can notice that the camera is over Tyler’s shoulder, representing his dominance, trying to overpower him over Alexis.

Another point about the lighting, cinematography, and sound design is that they all contribute to the emotional impact of the scene. The use of bright colors, flashing lights, and pounding music all create a sense of disorientation and urgency that enhances the scene’s intensity (POLAND, 2015). The sound design, with its pounding music and sound effects, adds to the intensity and visceral impact of the scene. Moreover, Tyler’s performance delivers a powerful and nuanced message that captures the character’s conflicting emotions and motivations. His portrayal of Tyler’s rage and despair is both raw and realistic, adding to the emotional depth of the scene.
The meaning of the scene is built up through the use of stylistic elements that enhance the emotional and intellectual effects of the moment. The scene conveys information about Tyler’s character, his relationship with Alexis, and the consequences of his actions. Through his actions, we see Tyler’s struggle to maintain control in a world that seems to be spiraling out of control. Overall, the shots in this scene work together to create an intuitive and emotionally charged moment that sets up the events that follow. Together, these elements help to create a powerful and emotionally charged scene that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. In another word, the party scene in “Waves” is an essential moment in the film that sets the stage for the events that follow. It is a powerful and haunting scene that lingers with the viewer long after the film has ended.

Part 2
The party scene in “Waves” is a crucial turning point in the film, both in terms of its form and its relation to the narrative and themes of the movie. This scene serves as a catalyst for the events that follow, and its impact is felt throughout the remainder of the film. Additionally, the scene’s use of a 360-degree camera creates a sense of immersion for the viewer, further emphasizing the disorientation and chaos of the moment.
In terms of the form of the film, the party scene is part of a repetitive pattern that underscores the themes of the movie. Throughout the film, director Trey Edward Shults employs a rhythmic structure, using repeated motifs, visual cues, and themes to create a sense of continuity and coherence. This structure is most evident in the first half of the film, which focuses on Tyler’s character and the consequences of his actions. The party scene serves as the climax of this half of the film, highlighting the impact of Tyler’s behavior on those around him and setting up the events that follow. In addition, the scene underscores the importance of family and community, as Tyler’s actions have far-reaching consequences that impact everyone around him. Moreover, the scene highlights the consequences of our actions, both for ourselves and those around us, such as the disastrous consequences of one impulsive decision. In another word, this last scene will close the first part, and give space and content for the next part of the film.

Furthermore, the movie is a non-Classical Hollywood, but each part of it can be divided into different acts. The three-act structure of the film is not evident, but the party scene serves as the climax of the first half of the film, which has an end, and the next part focused on Emily will start.

Another point is the use of the 360-degree camera in the party scene is particularly noticeable, as it creates a sense of immersion for the viewer and emphasizes the disorientation and chaos of the moment. The same The camera’s constant movement and lack of a clear focal point reflect the frenzied energy of the party and the sense of being pulled in multiple directions at once. This technique also underscores the film’s themes of disorientation and emotional turmoil, as Tyler struggles to navigate the competing demands of his life. Thus, the party scene in “Waves” is a crucial moment in the film, both in terms of its form and its relation to the narrative and themes of the movie. This scene serves as a turning point, highlighting the consequences of Tyler’s actions and the impact on those around him. Together, these elements help to create a powerful and emotionally charged scene that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.

Conclusion
In Summary, the film “Waves” is a powerful exploration of the complexities of family relationships. It takes viewers on an emotional journey through this family life, involving conflicts and resolutions through the narrative. The party scene serves as a moment in the film that divides it into two parts. By analyzing the scene’s lighting, cinematography, and editing, we gain a deeper understanding of the film’s emotional and thematic elements.
The party scene is a strong part, as it uses different elements such as mise-en-scene, cinematography, sound design, and acting to create an emotional moment and deliver it to the audience. For instance, the application of shots, use of close-ups and quick cuts, and low-angle shots capture the intensity of the moment and emphasize the power dynamic between Tyler and Alexis. In addition to the gray background and red accents symbolize the blood and death of Alexis, creating a sense of foreboding that intensifies as the scene progresses. Also, the use of bright and flashing lights intensifies the moment with some sense of disorientation and confusion caused by Tyler’s performance. Once the camera captures his face, it shows the audience his emotions and motivations through either the fight with his father or the idea of seeing his girlfriend with someone. Furthermore, this scene is not just an ending point for Tyler’s story, but gives information to the next part, including the impact of his actions on other people around. Its impact is felt throughout the remainder of the film, and its use of a 360-degree camera creates a sense of immersion for the viewer, further emphasizing the disorientation and chaos of the moment. The repetitive pattern of the film, using repeated motifs, visual cues, and themes to create a sense of continuity, underscores the themes of the movie. Analyzing this one scene is essential in the interpretation and analysis of the film as a whole.
Overall, “Waves” delivers an emotional impact to the audience, through the lightning, music, editing, and dialogue. The party scene illustrates how the lightning reflects on Tyler’s actions and the emotional impact on those around him. The film is a powerful and haunting depiction of a young man’s descent into violence and despair, and its impact reverberates throughout the film.

Cited Work

Brown, B. (2012). Motion picture and video lighting. CRC Press.

Gardis, Manohla. ‘Waves’ Review: The Shattering Ebb and Flow of Family Life. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/14/movies/waves-review.htmlLinks to an external site.

Gunn, Patrick. A24’s ‘Waves’ gives different perspectives through cinematic lighting. https://dailyorange.com/2019/11/a24s-waves-gives-different-perspectives-cinematic-lighting/Links to an external site.

Poland, Jennifer Lee, “Lights, Camera, Emotion!: an Examination on Film Lighting and Its Impact on Audiences’ Emotional Response” (2015). ETD Archive. 379.

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Published:: 06.10.23 / 1pm

Category:: Academic Papers, Films

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Film Review Club: Reviews of current film releases, streaming films, and revivals by student members of the SBCC Film Review Club.

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Soyoka Hirai 06.21.23 / 12am

I took a Film Studies summer class this past year and I actually saw this film in this class. This fictional narrative film directed by Trey Edward Shults is about the life of an American family. The film was very interesting because it incorporates not only family relationships but also class issues. I also did an analysis of the film and your analysis was very interesting. I found it very interesting that you mentioned the past works of the director, Shults, who shot this film. I also enjoyed your analysis of the camerawork, in which you made full use of hand-held shaking movements and close-ups to create a sense of urgency and claustrophobia. And I very much agree with the analysis that the party scene gives the audience a sense of immersion. Your analysis was very interesting and very educational for me.

Simon Untereiner 06.24.23 / 8am

As a student who has taken a film studies class, I find the analysis of the party scene in “Waves” to be comprehensive and insightful. The breakdown of the scene’s various elements, such as cinematography, lighting, sound design, and mise-en-scene, provides a deep understanding of its emotional impact and thematic significance. The use of close-up shots and quick cuts effectively conveys the intensity of the moment and emphasizes the power dynamics between the characters. The gray background with red accents adds a sense of foreboding and foreshadows the tragic events that unfold. Furthermore, the discussion of the 360-degree camera and its immersive effect on the viewer helps to highlight the disorientation and chaos experienced by the characters. The analysis also connects the scene to the overall structure and themes of the film, demonstrating its pivotal role in the narrative.

Yutao Geng 06.24.23 / 8am

The analysis you provided is comprehensive and covers multiple aspects of the movie “The Waves”. Not only do you emphasize key narrative elements and character arcs, but you also examine how technical aspects such as lighting, cinematography, and sound design contribute to the film’s overall narrative and emotional impact.
Your focus on the pivotal party scene is particularly effective, showing how this single scene both encapsulates the themes and narrative tension of the first half of the film and sets the stage for the second half. You dissect the scene in detail, from the use of 360-degree cameras to specific color symbolism and shifts in power dynamics, illuminating the depth and complexity of the narrative. It underscores the thought and skill it took to create this pivotal moment in the film.
In addition, your analysis of narrative structure and its contribution to the development of the film’s themes provides a nuanced understanding of story structure. You deftly explain how the story differs from the classic three-act structure and instead presents two interconnected halves, each following a different character arc.
Finally, your conclusion effectively summarizes your analysis and reiterates the impact of the film on the audience. You powerfully demonstrate the film’s emotional resonance, achieved through careful attention to narrative and technical elements.

Coleman Dupont 06.24.23 / 12pm

I found your analysis of the color symbolism particularly insightful, with the gray background and red accents foreshadowing Alexis’s death and amplifying the sense of foreboding. It’s cool how these subtle visual cues can carry such a weighty narrative significance.

The way you described the use of lighting and camera angles in creating a sense of disorientation and chaos resonated with my own feelings when watching the film. The immersive 360-degree camera work truly puts the viewer in the center of the unfolding drama. I decided to watch this film the other night, as I have been really enjoying films from our class list. Although I did not watch it as thoroughly or analytically as you did, I found your response to be on par with what i saw in the film.

Your mention of the film’s repetitive patterns and motifs brings to mind our earlier discussions on how these techniques contribute to the narrative continuity and thematic depth of a film. It’s evident in “Waves” that these elements play a significant role in intensifying the film’s emotional impact and highlighting its underlying themes.

Finally, your analysis reminded me of how “Waves,” much like “Timbuktu,” uses visual storytelling to explore complex themes and elicit strong emotional responses from the audience. Both films, though distinct in their narratives and stylistic approaches, exemplify the transformative power of cinema in representing human experiences and emotions. Your analysis of “Waves” has offered new insights that I can apply in my own examination of “Timbuktu” for my term paper.

ava r 06.24.23 / 3pm

Hi Fatima, fabulous review on Waves by Trey Edward Shults. I have never seen this fiim, reading your review helped me picture exactly what was going down. As a person who is 100% new to a film class I was inspired and so impressed by your review. I truly am inspired by the way you wrote and I hope to write a film review like this one day. Fatima broke down the scenes and gave such specifics of how she felt during the scnes and who the viewer feels with certain shots being closer or far away. Fatima dove into the details about how music, lights, angles, closeups, all added to this film and her review captured it all. Again I have never watched this film, although the way Fatima explains the party scene, now I know I need to watch this film. Famtimas review was so moving and detailed now that I do feel really compelled to watch the film Waves and experience the film for myself. Thank you for this review and I enjoyed reading it.

Mitchell Nelson 06.24.23 / 4pm

The review of the film Waves was one of the greatest I have read. I have never seen this film but the level of in-depth you portrayed created a great understanding of the film without even watching it. I enjoy how the film revolves around their father and his expectations for his kids. The sound design you talked about made me feel the words you would talk about more because I could imagine the tone and emotion the characters are using in each word. All in all your review makes me want to watch this movie and you did such an incredible job.

Hayden swanson 06.24.23 / 5pm

Hi Fatima, I am currently student in a film studies class, which is one of the summer classes I am taking. I thought that this was a great review and analysis of the movie “Waves”. This is one of the film I chose to watch for an assignment in my film class. The way you described the lighting and camera angles in creating a sense of chaos. The way you talked about how the camera angles where always moving around and jumping from one person to the next really sunk in with me because this chaos really hit with me when I was watching the movie. The 360-degree camera work truly puts the viewer in the center of the cray drama that is taking place in the movie. The only reason I really chose to watch this movie for my class was because of the date it came out, I thought since it was more recent it would be a better movie.

Hayden Erby 06.24.23 / 7pm

The review by Fatima Daiane Pereira da Silva provides a detailed analysis of the film “Waves” and specifically focuses on the party scene as a crucial turning point in the narrative. The comment effectively highlights the various stylistic elements used in the scene such as camera movements and sound design and how they contribute to the emotional impact. It also delves into the deeper meanings and themes portrayed in the film such as family relationships. The review effectively highlights the importance of the party scene in “Waves” and how it contributes to the overall impact and themes of the film. Showcasing the reviewer’s understanding of the film and its artistic elements.

Isabelle Kamin 06.24.23 / 10pm

I have watched this movie prior to reading your analysis of waves, and I think you did a fantastic job of analyzing this movie. I think it is extremely important to note the directors use of color in this film; this is one of the most color striking films I’ve seen, with its color pallet being equated to the emotions that you are feeling while watching this film. I think the soundtrack also adds to the journey the audience takes while watching this film. I would say the audience that this film is target to is towards the younger generation, and it brings us closer to the storyline and characters when the soundtrack of their lives matches ours. It made myself and other audience members feel more emotionally connected to the characters; it made the storyline feel so real.

Joshua Antony 06.24.23 / 11pm

Your review of Waves by Trey Edward Shults is absolutely fantastic. It provided a vivid depiction of the film, allowing me to envision the events that unfold. As someone new to film analysis, I found this review inspiring and impressive. Fatima’s breakdown of the scenes and her ability to convey her emotions during those scenes was remarkable. She provided specific details about the impact of music, lighting, camera angles, and close-ups, all of which contributed to the overall quality of the film. Fatima’s review effectively captured the essence of Waves. Although I haven’t seen the film yet, after reading Fatima’s description of the party scene, I am now eager to watch it. The review was incredibly moving and detailed, leaving me feeling compelled to experience Waves for myself. I want to express my gratitude for this exceptional review, as it was a pleasure to read.

I found review of Waves by Trey Edward Shults was absolutely fantastic. It provided an in-depth depiction of the film, allowing me to envision the events that unfold. As I am new to film analysis, I found this review inspiring and impressive. Fatima’s breakdown of the scenes and her ability to convey her emotions during those scenes was remarkable. She provided specific details about the impact of music, lighting, camera angles, and close-ups, all of which contributed to the overall quality of the film. Her review effectively captured the essence of Waves. Although I haven’t seen the film yet, after reading her description of the party scene, I am now really interested to watch it. The review was incredibly moving and detailed, leaving me feeling compelled to experience Waves for myself. It was a pleasure to read.

Race Dahlstrom 06.25.23 / 11am

I absolutely loved your review of Waves by Trey Edward Shults. It provided an in-depth review of the whole film allowing me to really learn and live the film. I loved the way you broke down Fatima and the emotion you put into really getting to know and feel what she does. I loved the way you provided key details such as the impact of angles, lighting, dialogue, and music which allowed for the film to have unique qualities. The review made me feel like I had watched the movie hundreds of times with the specific details she implicated made it feel like I knew everything that was going to happen. And even though I haven’t seen the movie I am now interested in watching it.

Molly Robertson 06.27.23 / 5pm

I recently watched this film for one of the units and found the shots and breakdown of the film overall very interesting. The music definitely gives the audience’s mind something to think about. I also think that the way they do the shots is showing us the build-up of what’s to come. I really like how you added that the 3 act structure is not evident. Sometimes when watching a film like this it can become hard to follow, and you can also lose sight of what is really going on within. Overall, this breakdown is very well done. And I can really see the depth and work you put into this, well done!

Eden 06.28.23 / 12pm

I liked your post and agreed with what you wrote about the family relationship and the way that the main characters are trying to manage the emotional situations in their lives. I also think that the visual elements have an important role in this movie with creating emotions in the audience. I thought that the framing of the action made the audience feel very present in the lives of the characters in the film. Close-ups of characters’ faces and mid-range shots that draw a connection between characters, and creative wide shots were all used to ensure that the audience understands the circumstances and relationships of the characters. In addition, the lighting in this film also helped to create atmosphere and mood throughout the film. It highlights the tense and emotional performances in the film.

Lorenzo 06.28.23 / 10pm

After reading your post I have decided to add the film to my watchlist. I found that your breakdown of the film was so easy to read that I couldn’t stop. This review captured the films summary perfectly in that initial breakdown. Then you did the same with the scene by scene breakdown. I read your description of each scene and it matched with the summary but added to it by noting the camera angles in emotional scenes, and the lighting in beautiful ones. For example the scene where Tyler and his dad are having an emotional discussion early on. You noted exactly where the camera was and what was framed for each aspect of their conversation. I found this approach super digestible and it almost leaves me feeling like I watched the film myself.

Evan Gesell 06.30.23 / 12pm

I loved this review of this film I dont think it could have been done any better. The summary you gave in the beginning helped give a great perspective on what this film would be like to view. The overall plot of this film from your description seems to be set up perfectly, while using visual imagery to get an emotional connection from the viewer. Sounds like a great film to watch.

Cecilia Perez 06.30.23 / 2pm

I love your post and like how in depth you analyzed the party scene of the film waves. In the film I would describe the Party scene the turning point of the whole film as well . The use of mes-en-scene was great. The music being so loud and fast definitely made you feel anxious when Tyler is driving to the party it kind of gives you a feel of whats about to happen next. Along with the lighting in the party its blurry and the use of bright colors roaming the room makes you feel dizzy almost. The use of the lens showing you close ups on their faces of the two main character during the scene at the party was intense seeing how anxious and scared they both look.

Esther Pack 06.30.23 / 11pm

Watching the film Waves, I agree many aspects contributed to the dark and sorrow mood of the entire film. The dark lighting during the emotional and intense parts of the movie relays the dark emotions and panic the characters feel, to the viewers of the film. An example would be the anxiousness the dark lighting and expressions of the characters bring the viewers during the party scene. A huge turning point of the movie involves Alexis’ death. This part of the movie severely shocked me, and it was something I did not seem coming. It represented both teens’ yearning for emotional connection, which only brought them doom in the end. Rather than love and connection, Tyler’s obsessive behavior ultimately led to the downfall of the story. Tyler’s little sister then goes through the same craving for genuine connection and finds a boy, unexpectedly. The scenes of how she is there for that boy, with care, rather than obsession, shows a deep connection between both characters. The most touching scene is when Tyler’s dad apologizes to Tyler’s little sister, Emily, for not being there. This brings the family back together and is a positive end point to the whole movie. Although this movie was an emotional rollercoaster, I enjoyed the ride.

Luke Maples 07.01.23 / 1pm

Good analysis on the film “Waves”. I have never seen the film but the colors posted in the picture made me interested and seeing the title about how lighting impacts the film. The review was very in depth and made very clear to understand how it was broken down and how she felt as a viewer of the film. I love how you describe the party scene with the camera movement being hand held so it does create that sense of urgency in a film. Along with the music playing into the camera work but now fading. This description of the scene really allowed me to paint a picture in my head of what going on. The in depth review on this movie really allows people like me who have not seen the film to strike interest after reading.

Jennifer Navarro 07.01.23 / 7pm

Watching this film really showed a lot of themes. Really love how in depth this review is onto the “party scene” and how it was focused onto it which i think was great due to the fact that the film or really the climax of the film really starts at the party. I love how this review really talks about the camera work, it sure does identify the difference in emotions going on throughout the characters. The film was really based off really dark lighting giving the illusion of a sad/ sorrow film. Also, really like how it was explained by detail when talking about the two sided part of tylers and alexis sisters emily part. It almost felt like there was two climax’s into his film, which to me was great, it was an attention seeker.

Dayana Flores Reyes 07.01.23 / 11pm

Reading your review of the film changed certain perspectives for me. I like how you were able to capture the party scene, being the scene that sets the stage. Those scenes are the ones that really define each character and make the viewer see them in a certain way. Along with that, I like how you were able to capture the way the camera would move to indicate the tension in that area with only camera movements. Not only is the scene important to broadcast how the characters feel but the music, sound effects, and the way the film is shot drastically influence viewers.

Ana Marcial 07.01.23 / 11pm

Interesting about this production, that it offers a great and powerful exploration about the family. In addition, their relationship along with the emotional bond between the past and future. Scenes are continuously built through the use of stylistic elements that results emotional and intellectual effect of the moment. Throughout Tyler’s consequences of his actions, it illustrates Tyler’s struggle to ground his emotions leading to spiraling out of control. Indeed, these elements create a well define power and emotion to synchronize resulting a lasting impression to the audience.

Interesting about this production, that it offers a great and powerful exploration about the family. In addition, their relationship along with the emotional bond between the past and future. Scenes are continuously built through the use of stylistic elements that results in the emotional and intellectual effect of the moment. Throughout Tyler’s consequences of his actions, it illustrates Tyler’s struggle to ground his emotions leading to spiraling out of control. Indeed, these elements create a well defined power and emotion to synchronize resulting in a lasting impression to the audience.

Denise 07.01.23 / 11pm

Hi Fatima,
Great analysis about this film! I watched this film last year and researched more into the scenes regarding lighting, types of shots, sound, etc. After reading your review I remembered how much went into this film and how much these elements impact and reflect the characters. For example demonstrating their mood and behavior, However, I was curious as to who produced this film and found that it was produced and distributed by A24, a streaming company. Demonstrates that the filming industry is changing the filming industry today by also producing/distributing their own films.

Jiarui Tang 07.21.23 / 7am

Hi Fatima,
You did a great job analyzing the entire movie, and I think everything you said was very pertinent as well as accurate. Lighting plays a key role in shaping the emotion and atmosphere in a movie. Through the use of lighting, the movie can show the mood and atmosphere of different scenes. For example, in a scene showing family tension, the use of gloomy lighting and contrasting light and dark effects can enhance the audience’s understanding of the characters’ inner emotions.
And music can often express the psychological state of the characters at that time, or the atmosphere of the whole scene. He gives the audience a more immersive feeling, he is like a hook not directly pull you from your current emotions to the director wants to express the mood of the characters at that time. This gives the audience a better emotional experience and empathy.
I also really like your take on the gray background and the red emphasizing the foreshadowing of Alexis’ death and amplifying the foreboding. I found this very interesting, something I hadn’t observed in any of my previous analyses of the film, and I had never thought that colors could foreshadow or imply something. This gave me new ideas.

Ali Cook 07.22.23 / 1pm

Wow Fatima! I have never seen Waves, but by your description it sounds like the director used lots of expressionism to portray such emotional topics in this film. Lighting is often far more important than we realize, but you pointed out the use of colors as well which I find so interesting. Depending on how substantially the color is used it can be hard to pay much attention to it. Your analysis of the “red accents” is so intuitive. Your review has encouraged me to be more engaged in the colors of a film and noticing the relationships between light and color. So awesome how all elements of film really work together to create the mise-en-scene without us viewers really knowing it!

Nnenna Ujah 07.22.23 / 11pm

Hello Fatima, I really enjoyed reading your analysis and perspective on this film. The way you went into detail and depth on emotional intensity and different dynamics in the American family. The descriptions of visual elements and language interested me. The mise-en-scene demonstrated throughout the film gives the viewers a deeper connection to the film as all elements are used to create this different appeal and significance.

Sofia Sinclair 07.23.23 / 4pm

Hi Fatima! Although I have never seen the film Waves, your analysis is super insightful and in depth that it makes me wanna watch. I love the way you describe how the lighting and different shots have such a huge impact on certain scenes in the film. I didn’t realize how much the lighting can make a scene better, until you described the different colors and how it added to the mise en scene. Overall, I think your analysis was very well done and makes me wanna watch this film.

Ethan Foulks 09.03.23 / 10pm

Hello, thanks for writing this, I enjoyed reading through this a lot! I agree on many things involving how important lighting can be when it comes to movies and music videos. It show also that there can be some dedication that comes into producing music videos that I sadly see not too many others doing. Music videos can capture a song perfectly, and really bring out a crucial story inside of it.

Martha Rico 09.07.23 / 11am

Hi,
I really enjoyed reading your post! I liked this film a lot! I agree that this film was powerful. And talked about complex topics. It was heartbreaking. The film went through a lot of topics of love, grief, and as well as forgiveness. I felt so sad after watching this film. It’s definitely a hard film to watch. The scene where Tyler got jealous because Alexis was with a friend and told Tyler that they were just friends but Tyler was jealous and he dranked before he saw her and then at the end he ended up slapping her and then she ended up passing was the hardest scene to see. Your review made the film easier to understand.

Elijah Acosta 09.10.23 / 12am

In film production, there is much thought and planning behind every scene that is meant to be viewed and interpreted by the viewer. I like your post and the study behind it that explains to us why this is important and what it does. Your review reminded me to think of all the times I have been emotionally and physically affected by a certain scene in a film, whether it be because of the music, lighting, tension or dialogue. I also like how character development was mentioned, and how each character has a little or big effect on the story and other characters. I was able to take away that behind every character has a meaning and story that the producer wants to put on display, and the process in which they reveal that character will have a factor on how they are viewed.

Katelyn Bubenicek 10.16.23 / 4pm

I loved reading your analysis on the film Waves. This film is one of my favorites, it’s shocking and heartbreaking, but also shows the reality of love, grief, and how hard it can be to forgive. I agree the cinematography is amazing in this film, we see at the beginning the red and blue lights as they drive and everyone is happy, and at the end we see those same red and blue lights, but instead those lights are police coming to arrest Tyler for murdering his ex girlfriend. I loved that contrast. The party scene was a huge turn in the movie and leaves you shocked and upset. You can see the artistic direction in this movie, the filmmakers clearly had a lot of freedom while writing this movie, leading me to think it’s an independent film. Thanks for sharing :)

Alexia Sandoval-Rose 11.04.23 / 5pm

I am currently taking a film class and I watched this film, I could not have agreed any more to your analysis. The mention of the 360-degree camera and the disorienting impact it had in the viewer is a testament to the film’s exceptional filming and direction. “Waves” is an outstanding example of how contemporary cinema can utilize film techniques and non-classical storytelling to create emotionally resonant and compelling experience. Your analysis provided greatly highlights the film’s strengths and it’s impact on the audience.

Student Film Reviews

The Power of Production: Exploring the Impact of Lighting and Music in the Film ‘Waves’ by Trey Edward Shults

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