Here is something I’ve been studying in different films. Almost seems like an art in itself, how does each movie introduce a character and why. I’ve selected a few clips that worked for me and wrote down some thoughts about what I noticed for myself, that perhaps is of help to you.


    - Dark Knight (2008): This one has always caught my eye. The way Nolan introduced the Joker in this film has always been very interesting to me. While some of the dialogue starts to feel a bit over the top for my taste, the execution and ideas in it remain very strong.  What really worked for me was, that the Joker’s face is not revealed until the end of the sequence. He doesn’t say a word until then. Yet, much of what we know about the character (both in the way he operates as well as the way he manipulates people psychologically) is revealed by the dialogue and the actions of the other guys involved in the heist. Each of those people are killing each other while talking about who this Joker character is, until he’s the last one remaining. I really enjoyed that, and remains one of my favorite scenes.



    - Girl Dragon Tattoo (2011) & Drive (2011): These ones felt all about creating mystery about the character. In DragonTattoo once again some of the information about the character is given by two other people…while still keeping it ambiguous on the dialogue “She’s….different”. The fact that both DragonTattoo and Drive character’s backs are against the camera in some sections helps with the mysteriousness. Acting choices are unique to each character. Both characters are quiet, yet so different one another. Both are keeping things to him/herself. Both are great at what they do. But notice how they show it differently. I particularly like the way the Drive character operates while driving, as it’s yet telling me certain things about his personality that will become important later in the movie.






    - The Foot Fist Way (2006): McBride’s film hit me like a rock in terms of pushing humor and contrast, and yet making it real, campy & awkward (the wide shot with kid doing moves and the music playing in the background is just great). Opening shots are about a guy cocky as hell. Then he continues onto letting everyone know how great he is even more. Then the moment of breaking the cement block comes up…and his reaction as well as people’s reaction in that scene makes that moment so freaking funny. Best part is he stays in character, and remains arrogant and cocky, which makes it work even more. Something to say about anticipating a character one way, then going the other way.




There are endless character introductions that I love. Chose these as I already had these movies ripped to study for different reasons. But I encourage you looking at the character introductions that worked for you and write down why. Feel free to share in here as well. I learned a great deal about it.

Have a great Sunday.

 

Carlos