Erol's short film research

Name of short film: Wake

Director: Lin Oeding

This short film has many attributes from the genre of action. The two main characters, a woman and a man (probably married) are trying to carry something in but in the way of them are several armed antagonists. There are many parts of this short film which suggest that this genre action packed. The opening shot is of the female protagonist inside, what looks like, a church. The tall pillars, low key lighting and arched roof are a good indicator that the setting is a church. 

The prop of a orange jump suit indicates to the audience that this character has been in prison. This conveys to the audience that he has committed crime - something which is commonly associated with action films. The two share a moment together although the police officer shouts to them that they are not to touch one another. The police officer is monitoring this man as he may have been given some partial supervision realise time. The chains around his arms suggest that he could be a dangerous character, although it is most an agreement that he would only be allowed out of prison with chains around his arms under the supervision of an officer. 

The dramatic music in the background adds to the stereotype of an action film. It makes the scene sound more tense and it builds up the suspense as if something is about to happen. When this fast paced sound track is added with a man walking fastly towards them it makes it appear as if something is about to happen. The pair watch over towards the man making his way directly to them, they seem suspicious and the camera is focused on him - he also appears to be getting quicker with everyone step.

7 shots happen in the space of about 15 seconds. This s a quick succession of shots in a short period of time which is very common in action packed films, as it does not give the audience time to think about each shot. This technique helps to create a high level of suspense.

The female character is quick to react and ducks down to the floor. Although the male character is not as quick to react.

This picture shows the man they were watching firing a gun at them. He is completely in the center of the frame (extreme long shot) 

This male protagonist was too late to react and ends up getting shot in the shoulder as a result of this. The gun is a prop which is heavily used in action films. As well as blood (shown in the picture above) 

The male protagonist falls to the floor and leans against the wall where he gives the female character something. It is not shown but it is important to the plot; this helps to move the plot forward. As she continues to run down the stairs a antagonist appears and tries to shoot her. As a result of this she jumps on him, which ultimately bring him to the floor. A fast paced fight scene between the female and the male antagonists breaks out. Something which is commonly seen in action films, as well as this several antagonists appear from all different directions as if what she is carrying is highly important. The heroine uses the man as a a human shield to protect her (uses people as hostages is commonly seen in action films too) against another antagonist shooting at her. 

In movies where there is a high amount of action it is common for characters, especially antagonists to wear black clothing; a leather jacket, a shirt or even a full suit can be used to give a professional and sharp impression. The picture above shows both characters wearing dark clothing which supports the idea that this is an action genre.