Short film research:Conrad

Canard is a short film that blends surrealism and dark comedy, focusing on the absurd and disorienting. In its genre, common camera techniques include close-ups to capture intense emotions, medium shots to establish context, and tracking shots to follow characters through moments of transition. Wide shots are often used to convey isolation or emptiness, creating a sense of disconnect. The sound in surreal films, like Canard, often relies on non-diegetic music and eerie sound effects to heighten tension, with occasional moments of silence to build unease.

Mis-en-scene (CLAMPS) plays a vital role in this genre. Characters are often dressed in simple, unremarkable clothing to reflect their psychological states. Lighting in surreal films is typically harsh or high-contrast, contributing to an uncanny atmosphere, while props may have symbolic or disorienting roles. Settings are usually ordinary but subtly strange, creating a disjointed sense of reality. Makeup and special effects can be used sparingly but effectively to highlight emotional or psychological shifts in characters.

In terms of editing, surreal films frequently use jump cuts, slow motion, and match cuts to disrupt the narrative flow and suggest altered perceptions of time and space. 

What I enjoy about the genre is the exploration of the subconscious and the deep psychological themes it often tackles. The surreal atmosphere allows for rich visual symbolism, which encourages a more abstract form of storytelling. Additionally, the genre’s engagement with the absurd can be both thought-provoking and unique. However, the genre’s ambiguity can sometimes feel frustrating, especially when a clear narrative or message is absent. The overwhelming atmosphere in some films can detract from character development, and the avant-garde nature of surreal films may make them inaccessible to broader audiences. Overall, Canard effectively uses surrealism to explore complex psychological and emotional states, but it can also challenge traditional viewing expectations.