The Vanishing (Spoorloos); George Sluizer (1988)

The film Spoorloos (considering we watched the original, I will refer to it's original title) is a film of psychological thrill and confusion. The plot of the film is interesting and woven together from the point of view of Lemorne and his family, as well as the point of view of the couple, Rex and Saskia. I would definitely call it a horror film because of the usage of many techniques that are shown in typical horror films. On the other hand, it approaches horror in a much more realistic and feasible sense. The opening scene is the first suspenseful moment, when they enter the tunnel and run out of gas. The shot is mostly dark but some light is shown at times. As soon as the audience is given a relief of light their eyes attach to that light until the next shot where they may readjust their focus. This is very useful in drawing the audience towards the sounds and music setting the tone for the scene but also the film as a whole. The entire film draws on the audiences psyche and social experiences while playing on their morals and deepest fears. Lemorne mentions attempting to break destiny and "jumping when you are predestined not to." This concept is very relatable for viewers because no one wants to conform to society but it happens anyways, and where we can change our "predestined actions," we will.

Killer of Sheep; Burnett (1979)

"Killer of Sheep" is much different than films we are used to today. It is also unlike any we have touched upon in this class. There are many effects that make this film odd yet compelling; however it is the oddities that make it difficult to watch. First of all, the camera is often un-stabilized and has the "Blair Witch Project" feel to it. But there are also scenes where the camera is stabilized and no panning or tracking effects are used whatsoever. This variety shows a lot of contrast in technique utilized by the director, Charles Burnett. There are also scenes that seem...unnecessary as they don't contribute or detract anything from the film. This is especially annoying to me because I am in an English composition class where everything MUST be necessary to the point of the paper and no insignificant points may be made. Another annoyance is the fact that some camera shots are just not focused on subjects in certain scenes, or the camera is just focused on the wrong part of someone's body. I've tried understanding why the director might do this but the reasons elude me.

This film could be considered difficult to watch and analyze due to its differences with modern film and the techniques used. Despite our unfamiliarity with films like "Killer of Sheep" it is still seen as a masterpiece of its time.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly; Directed by Sergio Leone

This being my first encounter with Clint Eastwood, after hearing so much about his talent and legacy, I am completely impressed. His confidence and prowess through facial expressions and is undeniable and vexatious. He is clearly an audacious actor and this shows through in all of his characters. Eastwood has the ability to make an audience wiggle uncomfortably in their seats just by using an expressionless stare. You can tell through his eyebrow movements paired with his evil grimace that this is a man that gets what he wants (as a character). Another thing of note is his stature and walking pace. He is very slow and methodical with his movements, yet, when he must be quick and reactive, he can move at breakneck speed.
Once again this is my first time personally watching Clint Eastwood act, despite multiple prodding from my grandfather who swears by the quality of westerns. Now I can finally say I have watched one of his favorites and actually appreciate the brilliant acting in the film.