D.

W Griffiths Birth of a Nation (1915)

What Shots are included?
The movie has a definite usage of still-shots. The use of lap dissolves to blend or
switch from one image to another.

Long Shots
Mid Shots
Close Ups
Two Shot
The Technique of the camera "iris" effect
Outside

What is the reason for showing this variety of shots?

The Expert story-telling, with the cumulative building of the film to a dramatic climax makes it more
believable to the viewer, along with the variety of different shots that go along with the film.

How has the story been portrayed?

The film was a commercial success, though it was highly controversial owing to
its portrayal of black men (some played by white actors in blackface) as
unintelligent and sexually aggressive towards white women, and the portrayal of
the Ku Klux Klan as a heroic force.
How has Griffiths Moved storytelling forwards?
Griffith's innovative techniques and storytelling power have made The Birth of a
Nation one of the landmarks of film history. With the use of a variety of shots and
different angles, Griffiths moved storytelling onwards by building up to a
dramatic climax throughout the film, also used in films today.
Discuss how these features are used in films today finding examples
from your favorite productions.

The use of outdoor natural landscapes as backgrounds e.g. Run All Night

Many scenes innovatively filmed from many different and multiple angles e.g. Taken

The technique of the camera "iris" effect e.g. American sniper

Moving, traveling or "panning" camera tracking shots e.g. Hunger Games

The effective use of total-screen close-ups to reveal intimate expressions e.g. Matilda

The Introduction of night photography (using magnesium flares) e.g. Rogue