Subtext in Film Investigation

What is Subtext?

Subtext is an underlying and often distinct theme within a piece of work. In film there are many ways to add subtext. The most common and notable way to create subtext is with visual elements. The following video shows ways that a film can incorporate subtext visually.

Subtext can also be added into a film in the writing process. Keeping a theme as you write is essential to producing a film that is coherent and orderly in structure. One way a text can include meaning is discussed in Roland Barthes system of meaning.

Roland Barthes Five Codes of Meaning

Barthes identifies five different kinds of semiotic elements that are common to all texts. He gathers these signifiers into five codes: Hermeneutic, Proairetic, Semantic, Symbolic, and Cultural. The Hermeneutic Code contains anything in the text that is mysterious or unexplained, usually leading to questions which the reader needs answered. Using this code allows for the writer to keep the audience interested in what is happening. Some films use this to their advantage by beginning or ending their film with a question. This keeps the audiences interested and they keep watching to find out more. The Proairetic Code contains sequential elements of action in the text. One thing is shown to reveal something else. An example would be a cowboy hovering his hand over his gun shows that the gun is about to be fired. We know the links between actions through observation of tropes in other films. Like the Hermeneutic code, Proairetic elements add suspense to the text. The Semantic Code refers to elements of the text that carry referential, extra-literal meaning. These are things that we infer based on other films. If we see a man in a fedora and suit we assume he is a detective. Elements of the Semantic Code are called Semes. The Symbolic code refers to organized systems of semes. When two connotative elements are placed in opposition or brought together by the narrator, they form an element of the Symbolic Code. This is related to the Kuleshov effect. In film two elements are brought together through editing. The Cultural Code refers to anything in the text which refers to an external body of knowledge such as scientific, historical, and cultural knowledge.

Incorporation of Subtext

Subtext is incorporated into a film by everyone who is involved. The actors incorporate subtext by the way they say a line. If they are meant to appear devious or untrustworthy they might be uneasy. The performance of an actor goes a long way in creating a work of art that gives of the correct tone. Tone is a very key facet of creating a readable and understandable film. The last thing you want is an audience to be confused. Everything from the music to the costuming portrays tone. When Darth Vader comes on screen the music is menacing and powerful, but when Luke comes on screen the music is hopeful and full of energy. In regards to the costuming Luke wears almost all white in A New Hope while Darth Vader wears all black. This particular use of costuming also shows a juxtaposition between Luke and Vader, ultimately pitting them against each other. The colors of the locations in Star Wars also contribute to the tone. On the death star everything is very high contrast. Lots of dark blacks and bright white lights. It is very man-made and industrious. Contrast that with the planet of Endor which is full of trees and foliage. There is a clear juxtaposition between the inorganic industrious death star and the organic natural planet of Endor.

Mon - Textured alley

Tues - Textured alley

Wed - Textured alley

Thurs - worked on lighting alley

Fri - worked on lighting alley