Film Studies key terms

A recurring device, image or story pattern. A racial trope is a recurring pattern used to represent a racial group.

A shot showing two people within the same frame. It can suggest a connection or allow their behaviour to be compared.

The extent to which a sequence shares the recurring features of the whole film, or the conventions of a genre, depending on the question.

A character given limited development, complexity or independent importance in a narrative.

The appearance of truth or believable reality created by a film.

An arrangement in which a film company controls production, distribution and exhibition: making films, supplying them to cinemas and showing them.

Imagery created or altered to produce an effect in a film; digital visual effects are made using computers, usually during post-production.

An image that suggests an idea through visual comparison, such as a confined metal bin suggesting a coffin.

A recurring visual feature that develops an idea or helps establish a film’s distinctive style.

Speech heard over images without the speaker visibly delivering those words within the scene.

A very rapid camera turn to the left or right, often producing a blurred movement between subjects.

An approach to feminism criticised for centring white women’s experiences while neglecting how racism and other inequalities shape the lives of other women.

A film format with a broad rectangular image, offering more horizontal space than earlier, narrower screen formats.

A shot that shows a broad view of the setting and the subjects within it, often allowing spectators to see whole-body movement.

Delaying information so that spectators remain uncertain or anticipate a later revelation.

Delaying important information and later revealing it to shape curiosity, suspense or interpretation.

Delaying the disclosure of information to characters or the audience, creating uncertainty, suspense or a later revelation.

Fear, hostility or prejudice towards people regarded as foreign or outsiders.