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Emotion Amila-Causevic (Midterm)
Emotion Amila-Causevic (Midterm)
By Amila Čaušević
VACD, 2023/24
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Psychology of Emotion
Emotion is a
complex part
of human
nature that
has been
explored for
centuries.
According to
many studies,
we can define
emotion as
reactions that
human beings
experience in
response to
certain events
or situations.
The type of
emotion that
we are about
to experience depends on the situation that triggers the said emotion. For
example, a person that experiences fear when they watch a horror movie, or
happiness when they get a good grade. 1 Emotions can greatly affect our day-
to-day lives. According to Aristotle, “Emotions are all those feelings that so
change men as to affect their judgments, and that are also attended by pain or
pleasure.“
Some emotions are very specific, in the sense that they concern a particular
person, object, or situation. Others, such as distress, joy, or depression, are
very general. Some emotions are very brief and barely conscious, such as a
sudden flush of embarrassment or a burst of anger. Others, such as long-
lasting love or simmering resentment, are protracted, lasting hours, months, or
even years (in which case they can become a durable feature of an individual’s
personality).2
Emotions, according to writers Don Hockenbury and Sandra E. Hockenbury in
"Discovering Psychology," are complex psychological states with three unique
1
American Psychological Association, 2023
2
Britannica, Robert C. Solomon, 2023
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3
Hockenbury D. Hockenbury SE. Discovering Psychology.
4
Emotions and Types of Emotional Responses, Kendra Cherry
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The six basic emotions are love, fear, anger, sadness, surprise, and joy.
From these six emotions, more detailed and complex emotions emerge, such
as jealousy as a subset of anger, and awe-struck as a subset of surprise. In
total, there are 102 emotions listed on this emotion wheel. 5
The way humans respond to the environment around us is becoming more and
more complex as a result of our extensive research into human emotion. This
guide helps us understand emotion and its numerous layers that we might have
yet to unveil.
This is not the first time people tried to simplify emotions through visual
graphs. This graph by Junto Institute was inspired by a visual created by
American psychologist Robert Plutchik, who mapped eight primary emotions—
anger, fear, sadness, disgust, surprise, anticipation, trust, and joy. These “high
survival value” emotions were believed to be the most useful in keeping our
ancient ancestors alive.6
Emotion in Film
Many people like to express their emotions in different ways, whether it be
physically or mentally. For some, comfort is found in art. Artists have been
using different kinds of mediums to portray their emotions or to evoke emotion
in others. This has become most noticeable in the 20th century with the art
movement known as „Expressionism“. Artists were starting to become more
interested in expressing an emotional experience and way less in achieving
realism. We can see the influence of expressionism in today's contemporary
art.
In the era of contemporary art, people have started to take films more
seriously and consider them an important art form. As a primarily visual
medium, film relies a lot on light to evoke emotions. It can be done in the
following ways: the use of lighting,
sound, camera movements, angles,
and color. 7
Recent psychological research has
shown that negative emotions are
more likely to gain our attention
and are intensely experienced. The
5
A Visual Guide to Human Emotion, Nick Routley, 2021
6
A Visual Guide to Human Emotion, Nick Routley, 2021
7
Conveying Emotion Through Cinematography? Here's How, Ties Versteegh
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research done by the Max Planck Institute has concluded that we tend to
experience artworks involving us in negative emotions as more intense,
interesting, emotionally moving, less boring, and often even more beautiful
than artworks lacking negative emotions. They claim that we mentally classify
our responses to everyday reality differently than the pieces of art we are
exposed to. We can feel bad emotions in a protected environment that is
created by this cognitive distancing.8
8
Beautifully Sad: Why We Enjoy Negative Emotions in Movies and Art, Max Planck Institute
9
The Science of Why We Love Scary Movies, Laura McArdle
10
Chills and Thrills: The Psychology of Horror Movies, Emotivity
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Alfred Hitchcock
Widely regarded as one of the most influential film directors in the history of
cinema, Alfred Hitchcock was born in London in 1899. He is most known for his
movies „Psycho“, „Vertigo“, „Rear Window“, and many more. Suspenseful
storytelling, deft use of camera angles and editing methods, and cameo
appearances that are emblematic of Hitchcock's work are frequently what
define his films. He had a significant influence on the thriller and suspense
genres and was a true pioneer in the field of filmmaking.
Alfred Hitchcock's films are known for evoking a complex mix of emotions,
often combining suspense, fear, mystery, and surprise. His ability to
manipulate these emotions and keep audiences engaged is one of the reasons
why he is considered a master of cinematic storytelling.
Philosophy of Work
Hitchcock had a distinct philosophy and approach to filmmaking that set him
apart as a director. Hitchcock believed that suspense was the most potent
emotion in filmmaking. He famously said, "There is no terror in the bang, only
in the anticipation of it." He emphasized building tension and keeping the
audience in a state of anxious anticipation. He believed that the power of
cinema lay in the images and their ability to convey the story and emotion. He
often used visual symbols, motifs, and camera angles to convey psychological
states and narrative themes. While he was a master of suspense and thrills,
Hitchcock recognized the importance of well-developed characters. He often
explored the psychological depths of his characters, making them complex and
relatable.
Techniques and Tools
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they are. The concept of being observed and being watched captivated
Hitchcock. The exploration of voyeurism in movies like "Rear Window" and
"Peeping Tom" can be interpreted as a critique of the moviegoing experience
itself. One recurrent subject in Hitchcock's movies is guilt. Characters
frequently struggle with the implications of their previous sins, trying to find
atonement or run away from the consequences. Hitchcock often presents
persons and situations that are morally dubious. Viewers are compelled to
consider moral dilemmas and frequently find themselves rooting for characters
that exhibit dubious moral character.
For me, Alfred Hitchcock's films deserve a category of their own. His
filmmaking abilities have over the years proven to be innovative, brilliant, and
thought-provoking. Many new-age filmmakers have tried for years to get on the
same level of expertise as Mr. Hitchcock has. Movies like these are the reason
many people, including myself, consider cinema an art form. Alfred Hitchcock's
films have left a lasting imprint on contemporary art and filmmaking. His
exploration of psychological themes, mastery of suspense, and use of visual
storytelling techniques continue to influence how artists and filmmakers elicit
emotions and engage their audiences. Hitchcock's legacy is a testament to the
enduring power of his cinematic artistry.
David Cronenberg
Canadian director and screenwriter David Cronenberg is renowned for his
unique contributions to the science fiction and horror genres. On March 15,
1943, he was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The investigation of the
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in "The Fly," elaborate makeup and prosthetics are used to show the gradual
metamorphosis of the main character. Cinematography plays a crucial role in
creating the mood and atmosphere of Cronenberg's films. His films often
feature meticulous and precise camera work, with a focus on composition,
lighting, and camera angles to emphasize the psychological and physical
aspects of the story. Cronenberg's unique brand of horror, known as "body
horror," involves the use of graphic and disturbing imagery to evoke discomfort
and fear. This often requires creative special effects, makeup, and prosthetics
to convey bodily transformations and deformations. The screenplays for
Cronenberg's films are often intellectually engaging and thought-provoking. He
uses dialogue and narrative structure to explore complex themes, such as the
impact of technology on the human psyche and the blurring of reality and
fantasy.
Meanings
David Cronenberg's movies often delve into complex and thought-provoking
themes, and their meanings can be open to interpretation. The interpretations
of his films can vary depending on the viewer's perspective. Cronenberg
frequently uses the human body as a metaphor for broader societal or
psychological issues. His films often explore the vulnerability of the body and
the ways it can be transformed or manipulated. These transformations can
symbolize societal anxieties, such as the fear of disease or the impact of
technology on the human body. His films often depict how technology can alter
the way we perceive reality, interact with each other, and experience our
bodies. These explorations can be seen as cautionary tales about the potential
dehumanizing effects of technology. Cronenberg's films frequently delve into
the depths of the human mind. They explore themes of mental illness, delusion,
and the fragility of human sanity. The blurring of reality and fantasy is a
recurring motif, challenging the viewer to question what is real and what is a
product of the character's psyches. Cronenberg's work often serves as a
critique of contemporary culture and societal norms. He has used his films to
challenge established institutions like the medical profession and the media.
His critiques often draw attention to the darker aspects of society and its
reliance on technology and institutions. The concept of identity is a central
theme in many of Cronenberg's films. Characters frequently undergo physical
or psychological transformations that force them to question their own
identities. These transformations can be seen as allegories for personal
growth, self-discovery, or societal conformity. the search for meaning in an
often chaotic and unpredictable world is another one of the recurring themes
in his movies. Cronenberg's fascination with the body extends to the idea of
biological determinism. His films suggest that our biology can exert a profound
influence on our behavior and experiences, which can lead to questions about
free will and the limits of human agency.
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Many people, when they think of horror movies, they think of loud jump scares.
Cronenberg's films are the complete opposite. He uses different techniques to
make his viewers uncomfortable. His exploitation of body horror is what makes
his films so unique and appreciated by horror fans such as myself.
Contemporary art is something that is meant to make you uncomfortable and
take a minute to understand what you see in front of your eyes. In my opinion,
Cronenberg is the master of contemporary art when it comes to cinema.
Ari Aster
Ari Aster is an American filmmaker known for his work as a director and
screenwriter in the horror and psychological thriller genres. He was born on
July 15, 1986, in New York City, USA. Aster gained widespread recognition and
acclaim for his debut feature film, "Hereditary," which was released in 2018.
The film is often lauded as one of the most disturbing and thought-provoking
horror movies of its time. His work has generated significant interest in the
horror genre and has cemented his status as a filmmaker to watch in the
industry.
Philosophy of Work
Ari Aster's goal to generate cinematic experiences that are thought-provoking,
emotionally charged, and frightening seems to have shaped his approach to his
work as a filmmaker. Aster's films delve into complex human emotions and
psychological states. He often uses horror as a means to explore the darkest
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aspects of the human psyche, including grief, trauma, and family dynamics. He
takes familiar genre tropes, such as those found in horror, and adds layers of
psychological depth and character development, creating a unique and often
disturbing viewing experience. Aster places a strong emphasis on the
authenticity of the emotional experiences portrayed in his films. He strives to
create genuine and raw performances from his actors, which can lead to
emotionally resonant and impactful storytelling. He uses visuals, symbolism,
and metaphors to convey ideas and emotions, often leaving room for
interpretation and discussion. Aster is known for creating an atmosphere of
dread and discomfort in his films. This atmospheric tension contributes to the
psychological impact of his work, making it more than just traditional jump
scares.
Ari Aster's films, such as "Hereditary" and "Midsommar," have challenged and
pushed the boundaries of the horror genre, showcasing his commitment to
crafting emotionally charged and thought-provoking narratives. His approach
to filmmaking involves exploring the depths of human experience and emotions
while maintaining a distinct and unsettling style that has resonated with
audiences and critics alike.
Techniques and Tools
Ari Aster employs a variety of techniques and tools in his filmmaking to create
the distinctive style and atmosphere found in his movies. Aster works closely
with cinematographers to craft the visual language of his films. He often
utilizes a combination of wide shots to establish the environment and close-
ups to emphasize the emotional intensity of the characters. His films are
known for their meticulous framing and composition. Lighting plays a crucial
role in creating the mood and atmosphere in Aster's films. He often uses
natural lighting, as seen in the daylight scenes in "Midsommar," to contrast
with the unsettling events that unfold. Shadows and light are used to enhance
the psychological impact of his work. Sound design is a key tool for building
tension and discomfort in Aster's films. He incorporates subtle, unsettling
sounds, music, and silence to create a sense of dread. The use of dissonant
music and eerie soundscapes adds to the unsettling nature of his movies.
Symbolism and metaphor are prevalent in Aster's work. He uses these
narrative elements to convey deeper themes and ideas, allowing for multiple
layers of interpretation and analysis.
Meanings
Ari Aster's movies, "Hereditary" and "Midsommar," are known for their complex
and open-to-interpretation narratives. These films often explore dark and
psychological themes and their meanings can be interpreted in various ways.
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can evoke disgust in the viewer and love and fear in Brundle and his lover
Veronica. Many people say, and many do agree, that this scene is disgusting,
but at the same time it is heartbreaking because we can see how much
Veronica loves and cares for him that even in his disgusting, mutilated state,
she still holds and comforts him.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7hh_8-
vH4k&ab_channel=PivotalFilmTVScenes
To make this mood board I took inspiration from many sources of interest. I
used images from movies, games, art history, and nature to portray how body
horror looks in many forms of art. I used still images from movies like „The
Thing“, „Videodrome“ and „Re-animator“. One of these mediums has many
examples of body horror and that is horror video games. Here you can see stills
from games like „Resident Evil“, „Amnesia: The Dark Descent“, „Outlast“ and
„Five Nights at Freddy's“.
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Digital Manipulation
Using the three previously mentioned filmmakers - Alfred Hitchcock, David
Cronenberg, and Ari Aster as inspiration, and my pictures, I have created six
works with the help of digital manipulation to create a feeling of fear in the
viewer. I have used elements of the filmmaker's techniques to further explain
and show how they have managed to evoke such emotions with their movies.
In all of my following works, I have used the resolution of 1920x1080px to give
the illusion of a movie frame.
The pictures that I have used to create these manipulations:
In the first photograph,
we see a small, narrow,
and dark alley that
evokes some kind of
discomfort and fear in a
person if they come in
contact with it. In the
second photograph, we
have one of the
reactions that a person
might show in a
moment of fear. The
third picture shows a
forest that is filled with scary animals and anyone could be hiding somewhere
in it.
Alfred Hitchcock
I have used the following pictures and techniques that Hitchcock uses and
created two photo manipulations.
Here we can see a few frames from Hitchcock's movie „Spiral“. I have used the
following colors, orange and green, which can both represent some kind of fear
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and disgust. In the picture on the left, we can see a very well-known frame
from the film „Psycho“, which I have used as a reference for my photograph.
My Works
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For my second work, I have used a technique called „Dolly Zoom“ that has
been created by Hitchcock. This technique is used to zoom in on a character's
face so we can see the emotion that they are feeling. (I have attached the
video with this Word file, please refer to it)
David Cronenberg
The following pictures are frames from Cronenberg movies that I have used for
inspiration for my photo manipulations.
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To evoke emotions of fear and disgust in the viewer, Cronenberg heavily relies
on the concept of body deformation. His movies are often covered with a blue
filter, to bring coldness and „the blues“ to the scene.
My Works
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In these works, I have used Cronenberg's technique of evoking fear and disgust
through the deformation of the body. I have also used the same color scheme
that he uses in almost all of his movies. In the first photo, we see a distorted
body roaming in a dark, scary alley. The second photograph shows a heavily
distorted human face, that is warping into one. I have also used a TV-like filter
that is seen in his movie „Videodrome“.
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Ari Aster
The following pictures are frames from Aster movies that I have used for
inspiration for my photo manipulations.
Ari Aster is someone that rather chooses to focus on the psychological side of
horror. He wants you to feel uncomfortable. He does rely on the dark or cheap
jump scares to make you scared. Because of that, it was very challenging to
create a work using digital manipulation that would make you feel the way his
filmmaking does.
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My Works
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In this work, I have tried to portray the character's emotion in a way that Aster
does. He does it in a way that makes you more scared because of their
reaction than to make you feel bad for the character.
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