Witness - Peter Weir - 1707 Words

English Essay – ‘Witness’ by Peter Weir The 1985 film witness, directed by Peter Weir is a crime/drama that develops the theme of conflict on a social, cultural and personal level. These areas of conflict are highlighted through the use of film techniques such as; camera shots, camera angles, lighting and costume. The film outlines the contrast between mainstream American society and the Amish community in regional Pennsylvania. While American society is seen as a violent and arrogant group of people, whereas the Amish are seen to be a peaceful, religious group of people. In this film the Amish perceive the mainstream American society to be called the ‘English’. The reason for this is the Amish originated in England so they believe that†¦show more content†¦The director portrays this like an old western shoot-out, because Book is walking away then holsters his pistol in a shoot-out type fashion. We see rapid mid-range shots between Book and McPhee which gives us the feeling of a fast paced action movi e. This leaves Book wounded and in a state of shock. Book then flees to the Amish hideout with Rachel and Samuel because it is no longer safe in Boston. Book is cared for by the Amish by using traditional herbal teas and remedies. One morning, Book awakes to find Samuel holding his gun and yells ‘don’t move’ with an outburst of anger. Book removes the bullets and allows for Samuel to hold it. Rachel walks in and sees that Samuel is in possession of the gun and sends him downstairs. Book now creates a personal conflict because he knows that he should not have let Samuel get his hands on the gun because violence is against their beliefs, and morally no children of any culture should be in contact with guns. Book also knows that he is the protector and he needs to nurture Samuel but not expose him to the ways of the ‘English’. As the plot progresses we see the growing love interest between Book and Rachel develop. In particular where Book is trying to start the car in the barn and Rachel joins him. The car starts, the radio fires up and the DJ announces ‘What A Wonderful World’ to the excitement of Book. Book invites Rachel to dance where they sing and have a great time until Eli walks in.Show MoreRelatedWitness by Peter Weir Notes12043 Words   |  49 PagesNOTES ON MODULE B, WITNESS BY PETER WEIR, 1985 Introduction: * Engage in a detailed analysis of a text * Understanding of how the ideas, forms and language of a text interact within the text and may affect those responding to it. * Students will need an understanding of film techniques and of the police drama genre. Important aspects to know: * Visual techniquesenhance understanding of characters * Editing techniquescreate suspense, establish characters, create atmosphere, positionRead MorePeter Weir, Witness Essay Closing Sequence814 Words   |  4 PagesDiscuss the central concerns and themes of Witness and how various film techniques are used to in closing scenes of the movie. Witness is a Hollywood film that was directed by Peter Weir in 1985. It’s a story about an Amish boy who witnesses a murder on his trip to the big city. Weir in the closing scenes is able to show through different themes, various techniques of sound, camera and lighting to correspond the Amish community, their connection to the land and disconnection from society. TheRead MoreEssay about Cultural Differences: Witness - Peter Weir: Into the World709 Words   |  3 PagesThe film Witness, directed by Peter Weir portrays the concept of cultural differences between the Amish and the outside world through various film techniques. 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John Book and his witness hide in the houseRead MoreEssay on Gallipoli: The Desctructive Nature of War 664 Words   |  3 Pagesare left with the harsh reality of the destructive nature of war, with no exceptions. Through the final sequence, along with its ties to the opening sequence, the destructive nature of war as a key demonstration throughout the film, is evident. Peter Weir uses violence to emphasise the destructive nature of war as well as utilising the audience’s point of view (2) to appeal to the viewer. This is done through the use of wide and medium shots to underscore the bond between Frank and Archy. Weir’sRead MoreTo Kill a Mockingbird Identity1239 Words   |  5 PagesLIVES SHAPE OUR IDENTITY. Good morning ladies and Gentlemen. Do our surroundings and the people in our lives shape our identity? I will explore how this quotation is reflected in the novel â€Å"To Kill a Mockingbird† by Harper Lee, the film ‘Witness’, by Peter Weir, and the film ‘The Lion King’ by Roger Allers. 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