Media Language

Media Language refers to specific examples of Mise-en-scene, Cinematography, Sound & Editing & how they are used in texts.  All media texts will contain typical examples of Media Language that are used to create a certain effect - you will need to identify these when you watch the unseen extract and consider why they have been used.
You will need to develop an understanding of what is meant by each of the above. Mise-en-scene is a French term which literally refers to 'everything in the scene', for example, characters, body language, facial expression, setting, lighting, props, costume, decor and use of colour. These will all be used to create a specific effect and meaning for the audience. For further information and help on mise-en-scene, access the link below to help you:

Mise-en-scene

Cinematography refers to the different types of camera shots, angles and movement that you might see. You need to consider the effect of each of these examples. One of the most common examples of camera shots that you would expect to see in an Action Adventure film is a Point of View shot - this will put the audience in the position of a particular character during the sequence. Some key questions you need to ask yourself when analysing mise-en-scene are:
What kind of set or location has been used?
What is the lighting like?
What colours are the costumes and what do they suggest about the characters?
For further examples of cinematography, you will need to access the link below:

Cinematography

The above link does not mention certain examples of Cinematography, but you will still need to be aware of these. A Tracking shot is an example of camera movement which allows the audience to follow the action - this is often used during a chase sequence. A Crane shot is an example of a camera shot that will introduce a location from a high angle often showing the spectacle and vastness of the setting. A Zoom in is an example of a camera movement which emphasises something of significance and can be used to focus on facial expressions or an object. A Whip pan is an example of camera movement which will suddenly whip from one part of a sequence to another. A Dutch tilt is an example of camera movement which can be used to give a sense of unease of disorientation. Now, watch the sequence below from James Bond, Quantum of Solace and see which examples of Cinematography you can identify:

Editing refers to the structure of a sequence and the way this is put together. One of the most common forms of editing is 'continuity editing' - this is everyday editing and uses transitions known as 'cuts'. These cuts are not normally noticeable and allow a sequence to flow. watch the short clip below which discusses continuity editing and how this is used:

You may also wish to access the link below which discusses some of the editing techniques used within Action Adventure films:

Editing

Some typical examples of editing that are increasingly likely to come up in the exam extract include fast-paced editingwhich is used to suggest excitement, action and confrontation. In contrast to this, slow-paced editing may be used which can help to create tension and suspense but also a sense of spectacle. (See the clip from James Bond, Quantum of Solace and consider the first shot used and its effect). You may also see examples of slow-motion editing used which can be used to emphasise a stunt or particular aspect of a scene. Shot reverse shot is an editing technique that is used to cut from one person to another during scenes which involve dialogue between characters. For further information on this editing technique, watch the short clip below:

Another very popular editing technique used in Action Adventure sequences is Cross Cutting. This is used to cut from one action or location to another and then back again. This is mainly used to add to the excitement or suspense in a sequence. Access the short clip below for an example of Cross Cutting and how this is used:

It is also often the case that the pace of the editing will change throughout a sequence and is designed to add to the excitement or suspense within a scene.
When discussing Soundtrack you will need to develop your understanding of both diegetic and non-diegetic sound. In an effort to understand the difference between these, you can watch the video clip below:

Dialogue is an example of soundtrack and this refers to conversations between characters which can establish individuals and their relationship as well as the conflict and action. The non-diegetic music will often be used to create suspense and tension and also reflect the excitement that is unfolding during the sequence. This might reach a climax but will often be fast-paced and exciting during a chase sequence. When analysing a sequence you will often hearbackground sounds or sound effects and these are used to emphasise the action or violence. For further information on the use of Sound in Action Adventure clips, you may wish to access the link below:

Sound

Mission Impossible 2

Now, you can put all these ideas into practice. Watch the short clip below from Mission Impossible 2 and see if you can identify the different examples of Mise-en-scene, Cinematography, Sound and Editing that are typical of the Action Adventure genre. What effect do these have?