DIRECTIONS UNIT: Screen Language

Screen language is a complex integration of visuals and sounds. It allows you to add layers to the story beyond the script.

Taxi Driver (dir. Martin Scorsese)

- made on location with no special effects

- used camera, lighting, sound and performance to create a complex story from the script

Characters

Travis is arguably the good guy in the movie - he can be considered the anti hero. However, he is unstable, mentally ill, racist, killer etc.

Betsy is a picture of innocence. She is first introduced in a white dress (a colour which carries connotations of purity).

Iris is childish which can be seen through her choice of outfit in the breakfast scene with Travis. She can be considered the blind hero.

Each character in the film is unique, distinct and invested in. No matter how small the role, each character feels like they have their own individual story which is expressed through their outfits, mannerisms, dialogue and performance.

Travis is shown in his 'suit of armour' near the end of the film. This is a specific costume that represents the character when they're going to get down to business. 

The setting of the piece helps to contribute to the time, setting, tone, character, mood, authenticity and story.

The locations have been cleverly chosen in order to frame, trap or corner Travis.

A physical divide can be seen between him and Betsy when they're in the cafe. This emphasises his isolation as a character.

Camera

When Travis is having his job interview, he is stood higher than the boss who is sitting down. This alludes to the idea that Travis has the power in this situation.

When Travis is walking through the taxi rank, the camera follows tracks him, then pans in the opposite direction as he walks behind the camera and then tracks him again. The shot goes from showing Travis, to being in his point of view, before going back to showing Travis.

Lighting and colour

Red features a lot throughout this film. The colour carries connotations of blood, death, anger, fear and danger. 

Editing and rhythm

There isn't always continuity in the editing and rhythm but it works to give the scenes a greater effect.

Sound, music and detail

The rhythm can be compared to that of a heartbeat / pulse. 

Perception and perspective

The way you choose to frame the scene as the director impacts the perspective you provide. Key factor in how an audience perceives the story.