Sunrise Scene Analysis

Question 1

why does the background change to the countryside after the metaphorical wedding in Sunrise

Answer 1

a symbolic visual manifestation of their perfect happiness

Question 2

what is the significance of the symbolic wedding scene

Answer 2

captures the characters committing to eachother

Question 3

how do the large cityscapes in Sunrise make the central characters appear

Answer 3

1. small, vulnerable, out of place
2. technology + city are represented as threatening and amoral

Question 4

how is Sunrise’s dialectical narrative structure seen in the composition and shifting of the Man and the Wife

Answer 4

1. 1st half= distant proxemics, lack of contact, single frames/shots
2. 2nd half = close proxemics, holding each other, centre of the frame

Question 5

what editing techniques are used in Sunrise to create narrative discontinuity

Answer 5

1. quick cut ins and flashbacks/forwards symbolise dreams and fantasies
2. double-exposure camera techniques and editing serves as an indirect form of narration

Question 6

how does George O’Brien’s performance reflect his mood in the first half of Sunrise

Answer 6

1. frequently shot behind to emphasise his bulk
2. shot with downcast eyes as he was unable to face the world
3. looms out of darkness or hides in the shadows

Question 7

How does Janet Gaynor’s performance develop in Sunrise as the narrative progresses

Answer 7

1. transformation from a sorrowful and downcast wife to one filled with joy
2. joy is shown through small facial expressions, gestures and body posture
3. camera frequently holds her in shot to allow the spectator to take in her nuanced performance

Question 8

how does Margaret Livingston’s performance contrast Janet Gaynor’s in Sunrise

Answer 8

1. larger body gestures (confidently strides through the village, exotic movements to her lover)
2. costume and styling (slinky black satin dress, dark bobbed hari) offer her a darker sexuality and eroticism

Question 9

what is Sunrise’s ideological messages about the roles of women

Answer 9

1. pushes traditional roles
2. women should be pure and skilled for their husband
3. men should be allowed to use the progression and freedom of women for their own desires
4. while still enforcing and preaching traditionality