Naturalism (Realism) vs Formalism

Naturalism (Realism):

- Its focus is on everyday aspects of life that are are mundane, boring or unspectacular.

- Shots are more objective

- Camera usually reflects human behaviour and movements by being placed at eye-level

- Shots are often static on a tripod or with little movement

- Lighting and composition feels open and random without added flair

- Locations are usually real 

- Focus of editing is on continuity

- Music and audio is diegetic (coming from the story world)

- Realism is a fundamental approach to filmmaking

Italian Neo-realism:

        No easy moral judgements

        Not easily plotted

        Documentary visual style

        Exterior locations

        Natural lighting

        Conversational speech

        Constructed to create a truth

Formalism:

- Considered classic Hollywood style.

- Creating entertaining films which audiences can enjoy.

- Shots are more subjective and meant to add effects and meaning.

- Camera uses different angles, shot types and lengths.

- Shots use more movements to make them more active.

- Lighting and composition is meant to draw the viewer into the action.

- Locations are often controlled sets which aid production.

- Focus of editing is on story and entertainment not necessarily continuity.

- Music and audio can be non diegetic to make the film more exciting.

"The art of cinema is possible precisely because a movie is unlike everyday reality, the real world needs to be shaped and heightened to be effective as art" - Louis Gienetti