POST #22 - NARRATION [COURSEWORK]

Guess what time it is!

1. Adventure Time
2. Time to Stop
3. Emily Time

It's 3! And 2.

"What is a Narration?

The google definition of narration is- 'the action or process of narrating a story'. This means that narration is similar to the narrative, but is the actual process of recounting and telling the narrative to the audience. Usually, this is told over the action and although the narrator may be present, you cannot see them speaking the words. 
Examples of narration in the following genres:
Comedy:

This is a rather unusual example of narration in a comedy film. This is because the film itself has more of a dark comedy genre. The narration in the opening scene begins serious and introduces the character to the audience. The narration finishes recounting a story, which is a little humorous, but in a dark way (it is about him being stabbed by a Santa). It is effective though, as it introduces the genre, and the themes of the movie. 

As a whole, it is common to find a film with narration in the comedy genre. Comedy usually has narration as it is another way to give jokes and wit to the audience.

Horror:

 

This is quite a good example of narration in a horror movie. It is very serious and seems rather intimidating. It starts off seemingly ordinary, introducing the character (Patrick Bateman). He explains his daily morning routine, and everything seems ordinary (perhaps a little regulated, but overly normal). However, then he gets cold. He states "I simply am not there", whilst stripping off a face mask. The face mask seems like a layer of skin, which may be foreshadowing the later events of the film. 

Throughout the opening, there is a calming piano tune playing under the narration. This adds to the normality of the scene, as it seems to just be background noise. Moreover, it further calms the audience and is effective as it makes the audience feel almost comfortable, yet at the end, it gets shockingly cold and dark. 

It is quite unusual to see narration in horror films. This is because the producers tend to focus more on the jump scares and visual aspects of the film (the gore and visual effects). Also, narration is usually too calm and normal. 

Action:

 

This is the opening four minutes of the film 'Badlands'. It introduces the main characters, but doesn't give too much information away about the film itself. It is quite effective, as it introduces the basis of the story. Also, it is clear that this is an unusual action film, as it is set in a small American town. This is also effective as it shows that this can happen to anyone, and it doesn't just happen in large cities. 

It is quite unusual to find narration in action movies. This may because the movies are focusing on the visuals (i.e. the car chases and the explosions), and not the dialogue. Although it is unusual, it is quite effective as it is an easy way to introduce the characters. 

Drama:

"Me and Earl and the dying girl" has narration throughout the entire movie. It is quite effective, as it shows us the genre of the film and how the character presents himself. However, it is very common in such teen movies to have narration, so it becomes a bit repetitive. It is well done though, as it ties in to the action seen. It introduces the character and shows us what to expect during the rest of the film. 

In the drama genre, it is quite common to see narration in the films. Usually, it depends on the subgenres of the film as to whether it has narration or not. For example, romantic genre films are more common to have narration than action drama films. 

Romance:

This is the opening scene of the Romance film, "Annie Hall". It begins with the main character, Alvy Singer, telling a series of jokes. He links it to his life, but it isn't fully clear what he is speaking about, until he speaks about 'Annie'. Then it becomes apparent that he is searching for the reason that him and Annie broke up. Then the scene moves to a childhood scene, with him and his parents. This scene doesn't have narration, but the next scene does. This opening continues to explain his childhood, and several jokes are made. I believe that this opening is effective as it intrigues the audience immediately. We instantly feel a connection to the character, and want to know who the mysterious 'Annie' is.

In this genre in particular, narration is somewhat common, as it can be used to interest the audience. 

What is required for a good piece of film narration?

Practically, the narrator must have a clear voice. The narration should not be drowned out by music present, or by any other dialogue that is in the scene. Also, the speech should be relevant to the visuals in the scene, as it would be rather confusing if it wasn't relevant. Moreover, if a film was to have narration rather than speech, it must be interesting and the actor must have an entertaining voice. Finally, the actual language used should link to the genre of the film.

Is narration something that you are contemplating for your own coursework?

Whilst planning our coursework, Noah and I almost immediately decided to include narration in our opening scene. We are thinking of doing a comedy movie, and we have seen how effective narration can be in comedic films, so we decided to include it in our coursework as well. "

:D

~ Noah :)