VIEWPOINT
The novel Private Peaceful is told in the 'first person', narrated by one of the characters, Tommo, who plays a central role in the story. We have a strong affinity with Tommo's point-of-view on events. What happens on screen, in terms of action and dialogue, is the main way in which a story is told on film. The way in which film can show us different characters' viewpoints, and encourage us to have sympathy for certain characters, is the focus of this activity.
Tasks
- Watch the trailer then discuss the extent to which Tommo's perspective is central to this filmic portrayal of the story. How has his viewpoint been conveyed in this trailer? Is Tommo's perspective as central in the trailer as it is in the novel?
- The way each shot is created will impact on how the audience views the characters and mood of the story. For example, a low angle shot looking up at a character might make them appear powerful whilst a high angle shot looking down upon them might make them seem more vulnerable. Describe what you see in the shots opposite, including what type of shot it is, and then explain how the shot type and camera angle encourages the audience to react to the characters portrayed at that moment.
- To what extent do you think the images prioritise Tommo's view of the world? Can you match some of these stills with specific moments from the novel? What information from the image helped you do this?