How Hollywood Films Guide Our Emotions and Engagement
What makes a film captivating? Many believe that a strong storyline is key, but new research by communication scientist Tess Lankhuizen reveals that visual style plays just as crucial a role. Her study shows how camera angles, editing, and color usage influence the viewing experience and how filmmakers can use these techniques to create greater engagement and empathy in their audience.
The Power of Visual Language
Everyone knows the feeling: you become completely immersed in a character’s journey, sharing their joy, sorrow, or tension. Lankhuizen discovered that films where the perceived distance between the viewer and the character is smaller tend to have a stronger emotional impact. Additionally, clear and smooth editing helps audiences better understand the motivations and emotions of characters. In contrast, chaotic editing can be confusing and reduce engagement.
A Subtle Interaction Between Visuals and Story
However, not every visual technique works the same way in every scene. Lankhuizen found that the impact of visual design depends on the content of the scene. In scenes where the characters' actions drive the story forward, visual style has a different effect than in scenes where dialogue plays the biggest role. “There is no universal formula for the perfect film style,” Lankhuizen explains. “It’s all about the interaction between visuals and storytelling.”
Application in Film and Media
For filmmakers, this research provides valuable insights: by strategically using camera angles, editing, and visual complexity, they can enhance the emotional impact of their films. But the implications extend beyond just the film industry. In marketing, political campaigns, and other audiovisual media, the power of visual language can be consciously employed to communicate messages more effectively.
Lankhuizen’s research highlights the importance of visual design in film and media. What we see not only shapes our understanding but also influences how we feel.
More information on the thesis
