The Importance of Realism in Cinema: A Look at Speed Racer and Marvel Movies

TLDRRealism and formalism are two approaches to filmmaking. While realism aims to recreate reality, formalism embraces exaggeration and stylization. 'Speed Racer' is a prime example of formalism, creating a hyper-real, colorful, and visually stunning world. In contrast, Marvel movies fall somewhere between formalism and classical filmmaking. The argument that realism improves movies is subjective, as verisimilitude, or a movie's inner truth, is more important. Marvel movies would benefit from slightly more vibrant colors, enhancing their already upbeat and fun tone.

Key insights

🎥Realism and formalism are two different approaches to filmmaking.

🌈Speed Racer is a prime example of formalism, creating a hyper-real, colorful world.

💥Marvel movies fall somewhere between formalism and classical filmmaking.

🎨Realism does not always improve the quality of a film.

🔍Verisimilitude, or a movie's inner truth, is more important than realism.

Q&A

What is the difference between realism and formalism in filmmaking?

Realism aims to recreate reality, while formalism embraces exaggeration and stylization.

What is 'Speed Racer' an example of?

'Speed Racer' is a prime example of formalism, creating a hyper-real, colorful world.

How would Marvel movies benefit from more vibrant colors?

Slightly more vibrant colors would enhance the already upbeat and fun tone of Marvel movies.

Does realism always improve the quality of a film?

No, verisimilitude, or a movie's inner truth, is more important than realism.

What is verisimilitude?

Verisimilitude refers to a movie's inner truth, maintaining consistency and following its own rules.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Last November, a debate started about the color grading in Marvel Studios Movies.

00:21The argument that the flat look in movies creates a more realistic feel is questionable.

01:19Realism and formalism are two main tendencies in cinema.

03:33'Speed Racer' is an extreme example of formalism, creating a bright and stylized world.

05:09Realism is not always necessary for a movie's verisimilitude.

08:53The importance of realism in cinema is subjective. Formalism can bring new and innovative elements to filmmaking.

10:20Marvel movies are already slightly more stylized, and vibrant colors would enhance their tone.

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