the piano context and background. what does this scene reveal about the setting? landing on the...
TRANSCRIPT
The Piano Context and Background
What does this scene reveal about the setting?
Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)
What does this scene reveal about the setting?
Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)
Inhospitable, deserted landscape. Cliffs make it seem unwelcoming.
What production techniques does Campion use?
Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)
What production techniques does Campion use?
Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)
Lots of long shots. The waves and beach. Sound effects of waves, wind. UsesOf washed out, pale, white colours. Natural light = a dark place.
What does this scene reveal about the context and characters?
What production techniques does Campion use?
Linking back to context:What do Ada’s clothes tell us about the Victorian era and the expectations of Victorian women?
The Piano - Main Characters
• Ada McGrath – played by Holly Hunter (protagonist)
• Alistair Stewart – played by Sam Neill
• George Baines – played by Harvey Keitel
• Flora McGrath – played by Anna Paquin
• The Piano - played by Ada
The Piano - Main Characters
• Ada McGrath –
Dress / Costume
Actions
Dialogue – important quotes
Feelings
Her strengths
Her weaknesses
DecisionsRelationships with others
The Piano - Main Characters
Alistair Stewart
Clothing / House
Actions
Dialogue – important quotes
Feelings
Hisstrengths
His weaknesses
DecisionsRelationships with others
Decision What it shows us about her character
Evidence (Quote, image, camera shot etc)
To stop talking
To come to New Zealand
To buy the piano back, knowing what it would involve
To send the key to Baines
To leave Stewart for Baines
Other decisions?
Ada’s Decision Grid
Stewart quotes
"You're small. I never thought you'd be small."
1. When does each quote occur in the film?2. Who does he say it to?3. What does it reveal about Stewart?
– It may be several things4. How does our impression of him change through the film?
"Morag, what would you think if someone were to play a kitchen table like it were a piano?"
"We're a family now. We all make sacrifices and so will you."
"Never behave like that. Never. Nowhere. You're greatly shamed. You have shamed these trunks."
"I'm not going to lose the land like this. Wait here."
"I clipped your wing, that's all."
George Baines
“She looks tired, Sir.”
1. When does each quote occur in the film?2. Who does he say it to?3. What does it reveal about Baines?
– It may be several things
“Do you know how to bargain?”
“The arrangement is making you a whore and me wretched. I want you to care for me but you can’t.”
“If you’ve come with no feeling for me then go. Go. Go. Get out! Leave!”
Character comparison table
Stewart Ada Baines
A key decision the character makes
He swaps the piano for a piece of land
She chooses Baines over Stewart
He throws the piano over the side of the waka
Comment
Objects they are associated with
Axe, surveyors’ tools
The piano Tattoos
Language / expression
Well educated, well spoken
Does not speak. Expresses herself in other ways
Speaks Maori & English. Cannot read and write
Comment
Costume Often wears formal costume (top hat, suit on the beach)
Formal dress at the beginning of the film
Wears a variety of clothing. Not formal
Comment
A Good Joke by C.F. Goldie