Steven Spielberg: The art of cinema in essay analysis
It's impossible to find a cinema enthusiast who's never seen any of Steven Spielberg's movies, and the reason for that is simple – his works are deep, thought-provoking and incredibly creative to the point that missing his contribution to cinematic art would be a crime.
Moreover, his range is incredible. The man is a master of conveying ideas and depicting the most convincing characters of different sorts, from a charming adventurer, Indiana Jones, to a shrewd and opportunistic businessman, Oskar Schindler.
To create visually stunning sequences that capture the essence of different eras and settings, Spielberg collaborates with numerous cinematographers, not only complementing the storytelling but also enhancing the overall viewing experience, which allows him to create masterpieces, leaving a long-lasting effect on the viewers. Besides, his movies are full of symbolism, and his storytelling frequently incorporates layers of meaning that extend beyond the surface narrative. Known for delivering captivating plots, he intricately embeds layers of meaning, offering a closer examination of the nuances of the human experience. What's more important, his cinematic art pieces are laced with metaphors and allegories that resonate with broader societal themes. For instance, "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" can be defined as an allegory echoing the human fear of the unknown and underscoring the importance of empathy, which is, by the way, a recurring theme in his films.
Spielberg employs intricate visual imagery to communicate profound symbolism. This way, in "Schindler's List", the red coat worn by a child amid monochromatic scenes becomes an evocative symbol of innocence in the face of the Holocaust. In "A.I. Artificial Intelligence", Gigolo Joe's distinctive makeup, resembling a mask, symbolises the artificiality of his existence. It reflects the performative nature of his role as a lover and his burden to adhere to the societal expectations imposed on him. At the same time, the moon you see in the film several times represents both the unattainable and the passage of time. David, the main character, associates the moon with his desire for the impossible – becoming human.
Water is also a recurring motif in Spilberg's films. In "Jaws", it signifies the ominous threat lurking beneath the surface, while in "Close Encounters of the Third Kind", water becomes a conduit for communication with extraterrestrial life, often symbolizing the unknown and the depths of human emotion.
These symbols contribute to his intricate narratives, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of love, life, death and everything else humans consider important.
That's why, when creating TV show and movie lists to binge, e.g. https://www.jguru.com/the-most-anticipated-netflix-series-2022/, everyone should definitely consider adding some of Spielberg's works.
Still not sure if his movies are for you? Well, here's a glimpse into the symbolic essence of Spielberg's cinematic masterpieces for you:
Humanity vs. The Unknown:
The relationship between humans and the unknown seems to be one of his favourite tropes. Just like many of us, the director must be drawn by the mystery of the unexplored. Are ghosts real? Is there life in space? How far can technological progress go? What if "Ready Player One" is our future reality? No one knows, of course, but Mr. Spielberg clearly likes to ponder on that. Probably that's why Spielberg's films frequently grapple with the implications of technological advancements. This way, "A.I. Artificial Intelligence" and "Ready Player One" explore the intersection of humanity and technology. Moreover, "Ready Player One" explores themes of escapism and the balance between virtual reality and the real world. The movie delves into the consequences of living in a world where people seek refuge in a digital realm, and just like many other sci-fi stories, it can be prophetic.
Childhood and Innocence:
Children often become the central characters of his stories for a good reason. Every adult, no matter how old they are, still has this inner child living inside, and that child is exactly who Spielberg speaks to through his narratives. We all carry this innocence, wonder, and resilience of youth, and we all sympathize with it deeply. In his films, young characters are basically vessels of purity and the untarnished human spirit that leave no one indifferent.
Family Dynamics:
Spielberg also frequently explores family relationships. For example, "Jurassic Park" and "War of the Worlds" depict families facing extraordinary circumstances and highlight the importance of the connection only family members can share. It looks like one of the main things Spielberg wants to show is that no matter who you are, you deserve to be loved unconditionally.
Personal Transformation and Redemption:
Spielberg loves portraying characters in the process of personal transformation and seeking redemption. That's why films like "A.I. Artificial Intelligence", "Catch Me If You Can", and "The Terminal" feature protagonists on journeys of self-discovery and growth, so the next time you need to write an essay analyzing a character on their way to atonement, instead of winging it using the help of writers on https://writepaperfor.me/, you better use some of his heroes as an inspiration.
Spielberg's work is diverse, spanning various genres and storytelling approaches. Each film contributes to his unique cinematic legacy, and the exploration of these themes adds depth and resonance to his storytelling. Spending a few hours on his films is the best way to savour something authentic and deep. What else does a cinema lover need, right?