How Filmmakers Create Depth — Symbolism Explained

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How to Include Symbolism in Film — We look at the role symbolism plays in movies, from its uses to its various forms.

What is Symbolism in Film? ►►
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Chapters:
00:00 - What is a Symbolism?
00:46 - Symbolism Definition
02:25 - Types of Symbols
07:51 - Uses for Symbolism
11:25 - How to Create Symbols
16:22 - Takeaways

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SYMBOLISM AND SEMIOTICS IN FILM

All art forms contain symbolism. Sculpture, painting, novels, music-- words, images, and sounds can contain multitudes more than what they are on the surface. So it should come as no surprise that film, too, can be rife with symbolism. In fact, the vast majority of filmmakers use symbolism, whether they know it or not (or admit it or not). In this video, we look at how symbols can manifest in you movie, and how you can use them.

UNDERSTANDING SYMBOLISM TYPES

Symbolism in film comes in many forms. A character can represent a broader idea or theme, such as innocence, corruption, or resilience. For example, a protagonist dressed in white might symbolize purity, while a villain cloaked in black may represent danger or mystery. Locations, too, can convey moods or themes. Objects as symbols are perhaps the most direct, like a key representing freedom or a shattered mirror symbolizing fractured identity. Something as simple as an action can also carry symbolic weight, too.

BASIC SYMBOLISM USES

Symbolism allows filmmakers to communicate layers of meaning without explicit exposition. It can convey larger themes– a film about pollution might use a dying tree as a metaphor for humanity’s disconnect from nature. Symbolism also adds dramatic weight to a narrative. For example, the symbolic use of a storm during a climactic confrontation can heighten tension and mirror the emotional turmoil of the characters, or a child's dress can be used to represent someone's past self that has long gone away.

HOW TO SHOW HIDDEN SYMBOLISM IN YOUR FILM

To incorporate symbolism in your movie, start by identifying your film’s themes. Then decide how subtle or overt the symbol should be. A subtle symbol may resonate more profoundly, while an overt one ensures the message is clear. Then carefully decide where to place the symbol within the narrative. It can be good practice to introduce it at a key moment, allowing its meaning to evolve alongside the story. Repetition can reinforce the symbol’s significance, and act as a call back to previous events and ideas.

By embedding symbols in your movie, you can encourage viewers to connect to your story on an intuitive, even subconscious, level.


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♬ SONGS USED:

"Christopher Walken" - Falls
"A Battle in the East" - Rhythm Scott
"Clockwork" - Hans Johnson
"Wall of Fire" - Tony Anderson
"Neon Sun" - Jacob Montague
"Symetrics" - Will Patterson
"Laurie's Theme" - John Carpenter
"What Floor" - idokay
"Into the Water" - Simon Franglen
"A New Star" - Simon Franglen
"Together" - James Newton Howard
"Breaking Bad Main Title Theme (Extended)" - Dave Porter
"My Black Desires" - Carter Burwell
"Crash" - Howard Shore
"Distant Memories" - James Horner
"Scene D'Amour" - Bernard Herrmann
"Pleasantville End Credits Suite" - Randy Newman
"Inquisitions" - Kevin Graham
"Adaptation (Fat Boy Slim Remix)" - Carter Burwell
"Old Souls" - Hans Zimmer
"Distant Worlds" - Theatre Of Delays
"The Ellie Badge" - Michael Giacchino
"La Javanaise" - Madeleine Peyroux
"Life's Journey Begins" - idokay
"'... Governments Should Be Afraid Of Their People... '" - Dario Marianelli
"Curiosity" - Kevin Graham
"Forrest Gump Suite" - Alan Silvestri
"King of Cups (Instrumental)" - Jim Swim

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Music by MusicBed ►

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