Textual Analysis (Shrek)

I do not intend to do an animation for my main task, the reason i am analysing the Shrek opening is to look for the use of comedy and character structure throughout the scene, as well as mise-en-scene and use of audio. These things can be used in both animation, and live action film so they will be of use to me and what i decide to do in terms of my main task.

We are instantly introduced to the main protagonist of the story, a low angle shot is used to make Shrek look more powerful as opposed to the viewer. An establishing shot is then used to set the scene, this is evident as it lingers on the shot for a good 3-4 seconds. Due to this, the setting has connotations of importance suggesting this is going to be a major part of the narrative.

Throughout the entire scene, audio is used in different ways to create different effects. The music used within the opening is integrated with the visuals. For instance, when the camera shot changes, the music has a significant beat or change in tone, this makes the scene run a lot smoother, mixing non-diagetic sound along with the other aspects of the scene, as opposed to leaving them as two separate entities. An example of this is when the music heavily changes tone, Shrek swipes the mud to reveal the title of the movie. This is also a very good aspect of the scene which i could use in my own work, integrating the typography within the actual scene. This makes the scene more fluent, and wont take the audience out of the experience with bold writing that isn't at all relevant to the narrative.

Although the character throughout the scene has no dialogue, we get a substantial introduction to his character, with the comedic tendencies that a wide audience will appreciate. It is a simple opening that shows Shrek doing various activities around the swamp, but we see some of his personality throughout. His facial expressions, body language and general way he acts has connotations of enjoyment and happiness, this gives audiences the impression he is an upbeat fun character even though he is an unconventional protagonist.