David Bordwell

Definition

David Bordwell is a prominent film theorist and scholar known for his work in narrative theory and the analysis of film style. His insights into how narratives are structured in cinema have significantly influenced the field of film studies, particularly through his exploration of the relationship between narrative and audience engagement. His theories often emphasize the importance of a film's form and how it contributes to storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bordwell's influential book, 'Narration in the Fiction Film,' outlines key concepts in narrative structure and analysis, making it a foundational text in film studies.
2. He often contrasts classical Hollywood narrative style with alternative cinematic forms to showcase the diversity in storytelling techniques.
3. Bordwell advocates for a 'cognitive' approach to film theory, suggesting that viewers actively construct meaning through their engagement with the film's narrative.
4. His collaborative work with Kristin Thompson has produced significant texts on film history and analysis, including 'Film Art: An Introduction.'
5. Bordwell's ideas have expanded beyond academia, influencing filmmakers and critics alike in understanding how narrative techniques affect viewer experiences.

Review Questions

• How does David Bordwell's work contribute to our understanding of narrative structure in films?
  • David Bordwell's work emphasizes the construction of narratives in cinema by focusing on how films engage audiences through their formal elements. He analyzes how different storytelling techniques affect viewer interpretation and emotional involvement. His insights help scholars and filmmakers alike understand the mechanics behind effective storytelling in film.
• In what ways does Bordwell differentiate between classical Hollywood narratives and other cinematic forms?
  • Bordwell highlights the conventions of classical Hollywood narratives, such as clear causality and goal-oriented protagonists, contrasting them with alternative narratives that may employ non-linear storytelling or ambiguous character motivations. This distinction helps in understanding the diverse approaches to narrative in global cinema and how they can evoke different responses from audiences.
• Evaluate the impact of Bordwell's cognitive approach to film theory on contemporary film analysis.
  • Bordwell's cognitive approach has profoundly impacted contemporary film analysis by positioning viewers as active participants in constructing meaning from films. This perspective encourages analysts to consider not just the text itself but also the mental processes viewers engage in while watching. By emphasizing interaction between narrative structure and audience cognition, Bordwell’s theories facilitate deeper insights into how films resonate with viewers on emotional and intellectual levels.

Related terms

Narrative Theory: A framework for understanding how stories are constructed and perceived, focusing on elements like plot, character development, and audience interpretation.

Cinematic Realism: A concept that examines how films represent reality and the techniques used to create a believable portrayal of the world.

Film Style: The distinctive visual and auditory elements used in a film, including cinematography, editing, sound, and mise-en-scène that shape its narrative.