Found footage

Definition

Found footage is a filmmaking technique that uses existing video or film clips to create a new narrative, often presented as if the footage was discovered after the events depicted. This style is known for its ability to evoke realism and create a sense of authenticity, making it a popular choice in horror and documentary genres.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Found footage became popular in the 1990s with films like 'The Blair Witch Project', which effectively used low-budget techniques to create a chilling atmosphere.
2. This technique often blurs the line between reality and fiction, leading viewers to question the authenticity of what they see on screen.
3. Found footage films typically employ hand-held cameras or surveillance footage to convey a raw and unpolished aesthetic.
4. In addition to horror, found footage has been used in various genres including drama, comedy, and science fiction to explore unique storytelling perspectives.
5. The genre has evolved with technology, now including smartphone footage and social media clips to reflect contemporary storytelling methods.

Review Questions

• How does found footage create a sense of realism in film narratives?
  • Found footage creates a sense of realism by presenting events as if they are captured in real time, often using hand-held cameras or archival clips. This technique mimics everyday experiences, making viewers feel as though they are witnessing genuine occurrences rather than scripted performances. The use of natural lighting and ambient sound further enhances this effect, pulling audiences into the narrative and prompting them to suspend disbelief.
• Discuss how found footage films challenge traditional cinematic conventions and storytelling techniques.
  • Found footage films challenge traditional cinematic conventions by rejecting polished production values and embracing raw aesthetics. Instead of using scripted dialogue and carefully choreographed scenes, these films often feature unscripted moments that unfold organically. This style shifts the focus from actors' performances to the narrative itself, creating a unique form of storytelling that invites viewers to engage with the content on a more personal level. As a result, this technique fosters a different kind of connection between the audience and the film.
• Evaluate the impact of technological advancements on the evolution of found footage films and their relevance in modern cinema.
  • Technological advancements have significantly impacted found footage films by expanding the ways filmmakers can capture and present their narratives. The advent of smartphones and social media has allowed for new forms of storytelling, enabling filmmakers to incorporate user-generated content and real-time documentation into their works. This evolution keeps found footage relevant in modern cinema as it adapts to contemporary themes like surveillance culture and personal accountability, inviting audiences to reflect on their relationship with technology and media in everyday life.

Related terms

Mockumentary: A genre of film or television that parodies the documentary format, blending fictional narratives with real-life style to create humor or commentary.

Cinematography:

The art of capturing visual images on film or digital media, which plays a crucial role in shaping the viewer's experience in found footage films.

Diegetic sound: Sound that originates from within the film's world, enhancing the immersion and authenticity of found footage narratives.