David Bordwell

Definition

David Bordwell is a prominent film theorist and scholar known for his contributions to understanding narrative structure in cinema, particularly non-linear storytelling. His work often emphasizes the mechanics of how films convey their stories, including the ways that filmmakers manipulate time and perspective to engage audiences. Bordwell's theories help illuminate how narratives can unfold in unexpected ways, challenging traditional linear frameworks and enhancing viewers' emotional and intellectual engagement with the film.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bordwell's analysis often draws on cognitive film theory, which considers how audiences interpret and understand films based on their cognitive processes.
2. He distinguishes between classical narrative structures and more experimental forms, providing a framework to discuss films that deviate from traditional storytelling.
3. Bordwell's work highlights the importance of film editing in shaping non-linear narratives, suggesting that cuts and transitions can create complex temporal relationships.
4. He collaborates with fellow scholar Kristin Thompson, producing influential works that explore cinematic storytelling and the evolution of film language.
5. His concepts are widely referenced in both academic circles and practical filmmaking discussions, impacting how filmmakers think about narrative construction.

Review Questions

• How does David Bordwell's theory of narrative structure enhance our understanding of non-linear storytelling in film?
  • David Bordwell's theory enhances our understanding of non-linear storytelling by providing a clear framework for analyzing how films can manipulate time and perspective. He points out that non-linear narratives can challenge audience expectations and deepen emotional engagement by presenting events out of chronological order. This approach helps viewers piece together the story in a more active way, making them participants in the narrative rather than passive observers.
• Discuss how Bordwell's ideas about cinematic time contribute to the effectiveness of non-linear storytelling techniques.
  • Bordwell's ideas about cinematic time emphasize the significance of editing and pacing in creating non-linear narratives. He suggests that filmmakers use techniques like flashbacks or parallel timelines to alter audience perception of time, which can heighten suspense or reveal character motivations more gradually. By manipulating cinematic time, filmmakers can create a richer narrative tapestry that invites viewers to engage more deeply with the story and its characters.
• Evaluate the impact of David Bordwell's theories on contemporary filmmaking practices regarding narrative structure.
  • David Bordwell's theories have had a profound impact on contemporary filmmaking practices by encouraging directors and screenwriters to experiment with narrative structure. His emphasis on non-linear storytelling has led to innovative approaches in various genres, from psychological thrillers to romantic dramas. By applying Bordwell’s insights, filmmakers can craft more intricate narratives that challenge traditional storytelling norms, ultimately enriching the cinematic experience for audiences who are increasingly familiar with complex narratives.

Related terms

Narrative Structure: The framework that outlines the sequence of events in a story, including the arrangement of scenes and how they relate to each other.

Cinematic Time: The way time is represented in film, including techniques such as flashbacks, flash-forwards, and ellipses that affect how viewers perceive the narrative flow.

Film Theory: A discipline that seeks to analyze the nature of cinema, including its aesthetics, techniques, and cultural implications.