Witness Scene 3(Material Witness Scene)

GROUP 1:

Synopsis: Witness – Scene 3(Material Witness Scene) The scene begins at Philadelphia train station where Rachel is frantically trying to get assistance from the rude man at the ticket booth. Samuel and Rachel's train to Baltimore is delayed and so they wait. Whilst waiting, the curious Samuel explores the frenetic train station. Once the station has calmed down, and becomes quiet Samuel walks to the bathroom. As Samuel walks into the lavatory there is a man washing his face(a police officer). Samuel acknowledges him and continues to the stall. He waits in the stall, peeping out the crack of the door. Two men walk into the bathroom(one of them is McFee). Samuel watches through the crack of the door. The other man yells “Hey Man” and pulls material over the police officers face. He screams and McFee reveals a knife and slits his throat. After the murder McFee washes his hands calmly, Whilst this is happening Samuel accidently makes a noise and McFee pulls out his gun and begins opening the door of each cubicle to see if anyone was there. Samuel locks the door to his cubicle and slides under the door into another cubicle just as the murderer kicks open his door. The men then leave and Samuel is left in shock and fear in the bathroom. Technical Analysis: Witness – Scene 3(Material Witness Scene) Technique Example Effect Camera Angles Establishing shot of the train station Accentuates the frenetic and chaotic atmosphere of the 'englisch' world. High angle of Samuel The high angle of Samuel demonstrates his vulnerability and innocence. This shot also emphasises the over powering nature of the 'Englisch' world. Low angle of Samuel and Rachel walking at the Philadelphia Train Station Highlights the intrusion of the 'amish' world in the 'Englisch' world, and once again highlights the frantic undertone of the 'englisch' culture. Also, through the use of this low angle, Weir effectively displays the theme of clash of cultures. Low angle of McFee during the murder Displays his power, control and dominance over the murder victim. Camera Shots Extreme close up of Samuels eyes when he witnesses the murder The audience witnesses Samuel's reaction to the murder, and it thrown into an emotional observation of a man being killed. Close up of the knife Reveals the power of the knife, and creates a suspenseful mood within the audience positioning them to question what will happen. Symbolism Gun The symbolic use of the gun represents power. Through the use of this symbol, Weir indicates and conveys the theme of power. Knife The knife is also symbolic of power, and through the use of this symbol for power Weir conveys the theme of power. Sound Effects Diegetic Sounds: Slitting throat, opening knife The diegetic sound effects create suspense and tension within the audience, and creates an authenticity to the scene, hence allowing the responder to witness the murder. Non-Diegetic Sounds: Foreboding sounds during the murder ????? Body language/Facial expression Samuel's facial expression of terror The facial expression along with the extreme close up of Samuel's eyes conveys the horror and terror experienced by Samuel, thus enabling the responder to witness the murder and the horror entailed with such a brutal ending of a life. McFee's calm facial expression and body language after the murder McFee's 'calm-cool and collected' facial expression and body language after the murder emphasises how natural killing is to McFee, and conveys the theme of innocence vs corruption Music Suspenseful music during the murder Through the effective use of suspenseful music during the murder, Weir creates a foreboded scene. This music positions the viewer to question what will happen next. Juxtaposition Juxtaposition of the McFee and his accomplices tone of voice. The calm tone of McFee once again expresses his dangerous nature and his natural innate ability to kill. This is juxtaposed with his accomplices distressed and distraught tone of voice, suggesting that his is not as attuned to killing as McFee. Juxtaposition of Samuels eye and the murder (innocence vs. violence) The juxtaposition of Samuel's emotive and unsullied eyes with the corrupt and evil act of murder, the theme of innocence and violence is disclosed to the viewer. Foreboding Climax of music in the bathroom before the murder Weir implements dramatic music to fabricate suspense. In the bathroom(prior to the murder) this music climaxes, thus creating a foreboded atmosphere amongst the audience, therefore positioning them to question what will happen next and cause them to become suspicious of the men in the bathroom. Sequencing of shots/Cutting rate Shifting from Samuel's eyes to the murder This sequencing of shots and quick cutting rate communicates the intense and frantic emotions during killing. It also portrays the state of mind of Samuel and the murders – distraught, frenetic and perplexed. These confronting images create turmoil and chaos within the audience thus positioning them to become alarmed for Samuel and the victims well-being. This use of cutting also unveils Samuel's terror and shock. Dialogue “What are you doing man?” (Panicked tone) “Washing my hands man” - McFee in a calm tone The frantic dialogue; “What are you doing man?” highlights McFee's accomplice's chaotic mind-set and ease about the deed he just committed. Whereas, the calm, collected and placated tone of McFee conveys his natural instinct to kill. When McFee washes his hands, this is metaphorical for washing himself of his deed(murder). Themes: Innocence vs. Corruption This theme is thoroughly explored in the film through various techniques. The extreme close up of Samuel's eye during the murder, is juxtaposed to the violence he is witnessing, which highlights to the viewer the corruption of modern society, and the tranquillity of the Amish. The close up of the knife accompanied by non-diegetic sounds emphasise the brutality of their society and this is reinforced when McFee washes his hands after the murder, “I'm washing my hands man”. This demonstrates his cold hearted nature and highlights how western society has adapted to the cruelty of murder and corruption. Force in Society In contemporary society, the use of force corresponds to violence, as opposed to the Amish who use force through the strength of their community. Force is demonstrated during the murder, particularly through the use of low camera angles, emphasising the abuse of power of these men and their use of brutal force. The close up of the gun also symbolises the taking of life, which is juxtaposed to Amish belief that only God may choose to end one's life. The shifting shots from Samuel's eyes to the murder scene, provides the audience with an insight to his reaction, shown by his facial expressions of horror. This clearly demonstrates how the westernised use of force distinctively differs from that of the Amish. Clash of cultures The establishing shot of the frenetic train station is contrasted to the agrarian lifestyle of the Amish. The low angle of Rachel and Samuel walking within the station allows the viewer to empathise with the overwhelming community that they are placed in. The costumes of Rachel and Samuel are also juxtaposed to the many people surrounding them. This contrast shows the clashing of these two societies and positions the audience to view them as outsiders in the modern day community. Samuel's insignificance in this society is conveyed through the high angle shots of him staring at the statue, and the many people hustling past him. This demonstrates to the audience that the Amish have no place in this contemporary community. The clash of cultures is also seen through the contrast of Rachel's polite attitude and the rudeness of the man selling tickets, enabling the viewer to observe the significant cultural differences, and the clash of these two societies when brought together. Questions: a) This scene provides the crucial plot point of the film. The original script for the film was entitled “Called Home”. (Amish word for death) Why do you think the producers chose to change the title to 'Witness'? How does it change the focus in this crucial scene? The title witness is not only applied to the witnessing of the murder but the witnessing of the contrast in the society. We as the audience share in Samuel's changing experience in our own way by seeing society, culture, crime and community. The film “Called Home” is not as effective as calling it Witness because the movie is based on a murder that has been observed by a boy called Samuel. This observation is what the movie is mainly about. Because Samuel was the eye witness in the movie and this happened to be was more effective, as he is a child, and the audience will sympathise with him more. This observation is what unravels the mystery behind the murder after a sequence of events. The other reason why the producers could have changed the title to Witness is because they might want the audience to see the western side of life as well as the Amish world. And the title Witness is the best name to highlight this contrast of this world. b) How do the close up to Samuel's eyes and his hand fumbling with the lock add to the tension? The close up to Samuel's eyes and his hand fumbling with the lock adds to the tension to the movie. It also conveys the horror and terror experienced by Samuel, thus enabling the responder to witness the murder and the horror entailed with such a brutal ending of a life. Because Samuel is a young boy, the audience is able to sympathise with him more as the audience wonders how this murder might effect Samuel's life. That is why, using close up on samuel makes the movie so effective as the suspense and tension created in the movie makes the audience intrigued and entertained. c)The tension peaks when McFee begins checking every cubicle in the toilet. Describe how Samuel escapes discovery, and how Weir builds up suspense in this part of the sequence. Samuel escapes discovery by locking his cubicle door. He then slides under the wall of the cubicle into the previous one that has already been searched, and just as McFee smashes the door open, he snatches his hat that slipped off barely escaping detection. He then stands on the toilet seat to prevent his discovery. Weir uses techniques such as music and sounds to build up anticipation. When McFee reveals his gun, the shot is accompanied by suspenseful music and diegetic slamming sounds, as he begins to push open each cubicle door. Suspence is enhanced by the panning shot along the ground of each door being forced open, and revealing Samuel's feet in the next cubicle. In addition, Samuel's struggle to lock the door furthers the audience's tension, as the non- diegetic sounds and music increase. Lastly, the viewers suspense reaches its peak when Samuel slides under the cubicle wall and his hat falls off, just as McFee slams open the door. This build up of sounds, music and camera shots effectively builds suspense in this scene. d) Notice how McFee's calmness contrasts with his accomplice's anxiety. What does it indicate about him. McFee's calm and collected composure illustrates McFee's natural ability to kill. When he washes his hand it is clear to the responder that McFee can easily forget and ignore the horrific and unforgivable deeds he has executed.

GROUP 2. Summary: After Book has recovered enough, he has started learning about Amish culture and the agriculture associated with them. Rachel allows Book to use her deceased husbands clothes as to help him assimilate into the Amish community and not be noticed as an outsider to strangers. At first Book is a little reluctant to borrow the clothes but Rachel insists that it would be better for him and it’s good someone can have some use of them. It is evident that Book is not accustomed to the sharing aspect of the Amish community. She explains a minor detail of the absence of buttons on the shirt, as they are considered proud and vain as opposed to plain. Book then attempts to joke with Rachel to lighten the mood, however, Rachel does not react well towards it. Rachel then comments on the rudeness of the tourists, how they “stare”, “come into the yard” and “seem to think we’re quaint.” Book makes a sarcastic retort to Rachel “why would they ever think that.”

Book then ventures into the rest of the house in his new “plain” clothes, after his attempts to assimilate into the culture, he is greeted with a laugh at this attempt the fit in.

Book then states “I need my gun”, this highlights his social view of protection and how a gun is a vital aspect of staying alive. This being a conflicting perspective on personal safety as the Amish reject this idea and concept. As Rachel passes the gun to book she holds it as far away from her body and by the handle with two fingers. This body language and distancing emphasises her thoughts on this matter and how she is disapproving of the ways of the Englisch world.

This scene is important in relation to the plot:

Analysis:

Technique Example Effect

Long shots Rachel Lapp offers John Book her deceased husband’s clothing, because his have been stained with blood from the gunshot wound. Book trying to fit in with the amish culture in regards to their traditional clothing - his first attempt turns out to be humorous as Rachel laughs at him. This is because his new outfit is too small for him and it’s a significant change from his old clothing. This emphasises the difference between the two cultures

Dialogue

“in your clothes you’d stand out to strangers”

Rachel is trying to help john assimilate into amish culture Distancing

Social Distance All the Amish stand together while Book is on his own. Showing the community experience the Amish are accustomed to.

Body Language Rachel Holding the gun and the look from her eyes towards it. Shows her removal from this aspect of Books social aspects on the different matters. Irony

Humour When book walks down stairs wearing an outfit that doesnt fit him. Makes a mockery of Books ability to try and attempt to fit into this situation and position in Amish life.

Themes:

Pacifism vs Direct Action: Seen when Rachel is reluctant and unapproving of her giving of the gun to book. This is because in her up bringing they believe guns are bad as they take peoples lives and should not be used. This is contrasted by books statement “i need my gun”. Showing the vast difference in the thoughts and ideas surrounding this. Wants to distance herself, how ever been force to cross the line and help him, she is coming in to his terms as she is contributing. As soon as the gun is passed on she turns her back to him. Highlighting her thoughts on the matter

Cultural Differences:

In Englisch culture Individualism is a underlying factor in their society, contrasting to the Amish ways of similarity and plain traditional clothing.

2. Plain John (Ch 8, 48.00 – 53.30) a. List of the behaviours and beliefs which Book finds amusing and/or peculiar:

- the fact they don’t like guns

- the notion that buttons seem proud and vain - the extent Rebbecca goes to hiding the gun ans the bullets.

- she handles the gun it disdain

- learning about agriculture

- standing out to strangers

- no land line phones.

- the similar clothing across the group

b. What does the audience see in the long shot of Book in Amish clothing in the kitchen which makes the audience laugh?

The audience is able to see that Rachel’s deceased husbands clothes do not fit Book, which further emphasizes his intrusion into the Amish culture as he does not ‘fit in’ regardless if he tries. The pants are too short and it is evident that he is self conscience about the way he looks as he is very rigid. It shows is attempt the try and fit into this society and this way of living, only to come out with failed attempts and a lack of familiarity. c. Why does the audience laugh when we see the close up if Rachel out of the flour canister into his hand?

The audience finds that Rachel’s body language/actions towards the gun and bullets to be humorous as she is very uncomfortable holding an object that conflict with her beliefs. The audience is also able to identify that the bullets are covered in flour as well. d. Why would looking ‘plain’ not be a compliment in Books culture?

Books culture, or outside of the Amish culture, it is very common for people to express themselves through lavish clothing and jewelry. By being plain, you express none of the traits of being an individual, being unique which is in stark contrast to how the Amish view community to being a top priority as well as conformity. This dressing style and custom is very contrasting to that of Books regular society as it makes it difficult to stand out form the crowd and see you as an individual and be identified as your own person.

Sometimes they come into the yard, I think it is very rude. - yet Book was allowed in.

Long Shots Book trying to fit in with their culture - his first attempt turns out to be humourous event as Rachel laughs at him.

The uncomfortable, disgusting hold of the Gun when book states “I need the gun” her expressions highlighting their difference in culture. - Body language/Gesture/ Distancing Theme: Pacifism vs Violence. GROUP 3

Close Scene Analysis- Group Task

PART A: Handouts 1) A synopsis (summary) 2) Technical analysis 3) Themes

1) A synopsis of what occurs, as well as why it is important in relation to the plot – the overall story.

In this chapter John is trying to fix his car and Rachel comes and keeps him company. As he attempts to start the car, the car radio switches on and an old time favourite of Book's comes on. He asks Rachel to dance and they both slowly get out of the car as they approach each other, dancing is a breach of Amish way of life. John flings Rachel around the barn while she squeals and smiles. At an intense moment, they almost kiss but because of Book's respect for Rachel and her background he resists and keeps dancing with her. The mood of happiness and freedom is broken when Eli catches them and interrupts them dancing and having fun to warn Rachel about the consequences of her behaviour and rouses on Rachel for breaking the rules. She gets mad because she feels as though he is still treating her like a child when really he is just worried about her getting shunned by the Amish community and how he would look as an elder as a result of this.

The overall story of Witness emphasises on the class of two cultures, the world of the Amish and that of the English. The Amish with their slow, gentle and easy-going lifestyle compared to the hectic, fast and violent lives of the Englisch living in the city. There are various times throughout the movie that these two cultures collide and mix. When John and Rachel are dancing in the barn you see an Amish lady and an Englisch man fighting the strong connection that is drawing them together. This forbidden love is a result of rules that must not be broken as Rachel being shunned from her Amish life could be an outcome of that. It is evident that Rachel is willing to take the step to be with John but he wants to respect the culture of the Amish and does not go any further. At various times througout the film there is a barrier between them, may it be a window or door, there is always something in the way of them being together. He knows that in order to be together, he would either have to stay and become an Amish man or she would have to leave all her past behind and be shunned from the community. 2) A technical analysis that focuses on how the scene was constructed to position the responder.

Technique Example Effect Types of shots/ Camera angles: Mid angle shot: Book and Rachel looking Flashes between Rachel and into each others eyes. Book's faces demonstrates feelings growing between them. In turn this builds our understanding of the growing of their relationship. Long angle shot: Shows Book and Rachel Their body language and dancing together. mannerisms reinforce the growing sexual tension. Lighting:

Candlelight/ lanterns When Book is attempting to Positions the viewer to feel fix his car in the pitch black the romance growing barn, Rachel holds a lantern between Book and Rachel. in between the two of them. The low key lighting has the effect of being diffused and shadowy. * significance of darkness. Sound-diagetic/ non-diagetic: Music playing from the car Uncommon to Amish radio, familiar song to Book, background. Book unfamiliar thoroughly enjoys the song, ironic and heightens romantic, sexual tension- emotional connection forming. -Limited dialogue is used throughout the scene as their relationship is portrayed through visual juxtaposition. Reinforcing the differences between the protagonists' worlds. Sequencing of shots:

Increased cutting rate- When Rachel and Book's Illustrating that what is (When rate of cutting intimate moment is broken happening is inconvenient. between shots is made by Eli's dialogue in German. Afterwards Eli followed faster.) Rachel in the house and reinforced his fear that if she continues with this behaviour then she will risk being 'shunned' according to the Ordung.

3) Identify the themes raised in the scene and provide proof of this.

CULTURE CLASH: This term is often used to describe the kind of discomfort individuals feel when they move into an unfamiliar social grouping. The ideas, values, habits to which these individuals are accustomed are challenged or contradicted by the ideas, values and customs of the group or community they enter. “Collision of two worlds”, the idealistic world of the Amish comes into conflict with the ugly sub-culture of police corruption, leading to internal conflict in their close knit community. The Amish also come into conflict within the local culture. When the key characters, Book and Rachel fall in love, the gap between cultures is further emphasised, this drives the drama.

Misuse and abuse of Power:

When persons in authority abuse power for personal gain, it makes it difficult for those who are honest and who take action. Reoccurring theme. Where one’s superiors are corrupt, a person must risk their own credibility or even their life in order to see justice prevail. Book is a study in self reliance. Those he can trust in the outside world are either eliminated or powerless to help him. He must draw on his inner reserves to finally overcome the evil of Schaeffer. The Amish, for all their values, have no answer to the violence perpetrated by the outsiders. Only through Book’s methods can justice be achieved. The Amish gather at the end to bear witness to Schaeffer’s attempts to eliminate Book, so in this sense, that the quiet and passive presence of the Amish assist in eliminating Schaeffer as a threat.

Appearances often contradict reality: Book’s first thought after Samuel’s initial description of the murderer is a suspect in a nightclub. He forces this man from the bar and slams him up against the window of the police car for Samuel to identify.. He never suspects the murderer to be one of his own. The silent realisation that it is McFee and the shock with which this registers on Book shakes his perception of reality. Book’s trust in Schaeffer is ironic too. The happy family man, ‘honest cop’ Schaeffer is in on the plan and now Book has made him aware that he has a witness to the crime. The idle gossip in the Amish community about B and R’s relationship.. While there is some basis for gossip which has them pre-judging them, both are considerably more moral than we first think. Audience is also forced to consider their own perceptions of reality, is love able to conquer everything or is this simply an idealised view of love?

Appreciation of Cultural Diversity: Invites the audience to consider the inherent beauty and values of another culture where the beliefs are widely divergent from our own. Clearly those who ridicule the Amish culture, as depicted in the film, come from a culture which is clearly less desirable. The ‘English’ culture is violent and crass. Swearing and reliance on violence to solve problems is a particularly ugly aspect of American society. The ‘gun mentality’ is a particular focal point for criticism. The commercial nature of our world is criticized in the uncomprehending response of Eli and Rachel when Book mimics the advertisement for ‘good coffee’.

Violence vs. Non Violence/Pacifism vs. Direct Action: Amish philosophy stresses humility. A member of the Amish church who sins may be subjected to shunning where members of the family and wider Amish community are forbidden communication and social contact with the sinner until they are forgiven.

Part B: Questions on Key Scene

Breaking the Rules, Dancing in the Barn a) Why is this an enjoyable scene to watch? b) What evidence is there that Book is avoiding having too much eye contact, and is trying to keep his distance as they begin dancing? c) At the first moment when Eli sees them, there is a long close-up showing Rachel looking longingly at Book as he moves out of the shot, but keeping Eli unfocused in the background. What is the effect of 'pulling focus' back to Eli in this way? d) List all the communal activities Eli states that he would be unable to share with her. e) Why would it be high undesirable for a young mother to be shunned by her Amish community? ANSWERS a) The breaking the rules scene is an enjoyable scene to watch because we see a connection between Book and Rachel. Although there are people after Book and Rachel's husband has recently passed away they are both momentarily forgetting about their past and laughing and having a great time, putting aside the barrier in between them both. b) Book is avoiding eye contact and being too close to Rachel when they begin dancing because he knows if he gets too close with her or looks too deep into her eyes, they will end up kissing or making love and he respects her too much to put her Amish culture on the line as a result of breaking the rules would be getting shunned from the community. He knows there is no possible way they can be together so he tries to force the feeling of falling in love with her away before it gets too uncontrollable. c) At the first moment when Eli sees them, there is a long close-up showing Rachel looking longingly at Book as he moves out of the shot, but keeping Eli unfocused in the background. They keep Eli unfocused because he is always in the way of John and Rachel being together as he is constantly whisperring things in Rachels ear and is a major barrier between them. He is a minor thing of Rachel's mind as she stares at John for a lengthy period of time waiting for some recognition or for him to say something. d) If Rachel is shunned from the community, Eli is worried he will not be able to share a number of communal activities with her such as; taking things from her hands, worshipping with her and sitting at the same table with her. e) As the Amish community all work together to assist members of the community in need and are always around the corner, it would be undesirable for a young mother to be shunned from the community as they would be looked down upon and would get ignores by the rest of the Amish community. They would not receive any help and would find it hard finding love with an Amish man, unless they were too shunned.

GROUP 4

PART A – Handouts Summary The scene begins with Schaeffer trying to persuade Book's partner Carter, that the police force is similar to the Amish. This is conveyed through the dialogue “ we're like a club, a cult “This portrays the English's view on community in contrast to the Amish view, this is seen in the next shot. Laughter and chatter fills the space when the Amish people gather to raise the new barn. When the viewer first sees John, Daniel and Rachel it is evident the tension present between each of them. Daniel says to Book, “you're better now?...Good, now you can go home”. This displays the lack of respect and connection Daniel has for John. The Amish gather to build a barn and there is a strong sense of community and friendship present as well a the buoyant. Whilst the men raise the barn and place it together, the women prepare food and drink and together sew quilts and blankets. The scene represents the peace and composure within their world and the way that they live by. As the scene progresses, the Amish people are surprised by John's knowledge of construction and his ability to complete the tasks before him. His growing respect is conveyed when Daniel shares his drink with him, symbolising friendship and acceptance. This scene is important in relation to the plot because it displays the Amish foundation in contrast to the horrors of the English world. The aspects of tranquility and serenity deeply depict the old fashioned ways of the Amish and that they are in no need for the capabilities of the modern world. TECHNIQUE EXAMPLE EFFECT Body Language Eli and Doctor looking at This implies that the community is Rachel interacting with Book talking about Rachel and Book and that she is in danger of being shunned. Sound Peaceful music during barn Conveys the cohesion between raising the Amish as they make a generally hard and stressful task easier by working together. Wide shot During lunch while they are This highlights the rigid gender praying roles in the community as the women are serving and preparing the food for the men. Symbolism Daniel giving Book a sip of Although Book can be seen as a his drink rival and threat to Daniel's interest in Rachel his culture and beliefs supersede that, so he puts the differences behind him and helps Book. Mis-en-scene Schafer confronting Carter The frame is deliberately placed inside a small dark room with Carter sitting in the middle, in order to make him feel small this positions the reader to see the selfishness and lack of respect between two men who actually should be partners.

PART B a) How does Weir communicate a sense of wonder in his filming of this elaborate ritual? Weir creates a sense of wonder in his filming of the barn raising through the use of mis en scene. Mis en scene is used to display the sense of community within the Amish, this is through the wide shot of the men working on the frame of the barn. It creates a sense of wonder because of the number of people working on the frame as a foundation and dominates the shot. The music contributes to this, as it sets the scene to be peaceful and tranquil within the positive atmosphere. b) What evidence is there that Daniel views book as a rival, and an outsider? -It is evident that Daniel views Book as a rival through the dialogue “ You're better now? Good, you can you go home” this displays Daniel's jealousy felt about Book's and Rachel's relationship. When they gather for lunch, Book and Rachel exchange glances, this earns Book an unfriendly glance from Daniel. The dialogue between Daniel and Book towards the start of the scene when Daniel asks -Book if his wound has healed yet and Book responds with “Yeah pretty much” Daniel replies with “Good now you can go home” in a very calm yet serious tone conveying that although he is obliged to be a friend of Book due to his culture he still feels threatened about Books relationship with Rachel c) How are the viewers made aware of the rigid traditional gender roles during the barn-building. The viewers are made aware of the rigid traditional gender roles through the men building the barn and having a physical approach and dominance on the community. The women provide food and drinks and this represents their smaller role within the Amish foundation. d) What further warning is given to imply that the community members are talking about Rachel and Book, and that she is in danger of being shunned. The warning given is the exchanging of glances between the men eating. -When the doctor and Eli are seen looking at Rachel interacting with Book in an intriguing way this conveys they are watching her actions and that she is being talked about.

THEMES – Amish use of power The Amish was is not to seek power and they have little use for it. Their community is closely bound by its rules, based on religious interpretation of the Bible. This is shown in the scene of building the barn through the use of establishing shot of the Amish saying grace. This highlights the Amish religious commitment and thus demonstrates that the Amish are peacefully governed by one set of rules. They do not abuse these set of rules and work together as a community reinforcing them. If an Amish person broke the rules of the Ordnung, they be shunned, a powerful use of force that discommunicates them from their friends and family. This is hinted in the barn scene as the community gossip about Book and Rachel. Through body language towards Book, the danger of Rachel been shunned is highlighted. The Amish are forceful through their unity as a community, they work cooperatively, and harmoniously together which thus emphasises the clash between the two worlds. Themes: Community- This is highlighted in all techniques throughout the scene but a main one is; Sound Peaceful music during barn Conveys the cohesion between raising the Amish as they make a generally hard and stressful task easier by working together.

Corruption- In most scenes throughout the movie involving the police this theme is raised;

Mise-en-scene Schafer confronting Carter The frame is deliberately placed inside a small dark room with Carter sitting in the middle, in order to make him feel small this positions the reader to see the selfishness and lack of respect between two men who actually should be partners.

Culture/Beliefs this is conveyed very much during this scene and constantly throughout the movie

Wide shot During lunch while they are This highlights the rigid gender praying roles in the community as the women are serving and preparing the food for the men.

Body Language Eli and Doctor looking at This implies that the Rachel interacting with Book community is talking about Rachel and Book and that she is in danger of being shunned.

3) A technical analysis that focuses on how the scene was constructed to position the responder.

Technique Example Effect Types of shots/ Camera angles: Mid angle shot: Book and Rachel looking Flashes between Rachel and into each others eyes. Book's faces demonstrates feelings growing between them. In turn this builds our understanding of the growing of their relationship. Long angle shot: Shows Book and Rachel Their body language and dancing together. mannerisms reinforce the growing sexual tension. Lighting:

Candlelight/ lanterns When Book is attempting to Positions the viewer to feel fix his car in the pitch black the romance growing barn, Rachel holds a lantern between Book and Rachel. in between the two of them. The low key lighting has the effect of being diffused and shadowy. * significance of darkness. Sound-diagetic/ non-diagetic: Music playing from the car Uncommon to Amish radio, familiar song to Book, background. Book unfamiliar thoroughly enjoys the song, ironic and heightens romantic, sexual tension- emotional connection forming. -Limited dialogue is used throughout the scene as their relationship is portrayed through visual juxtaposition. Reinforcing the differences between the protagonists' worlds. Sequencing of shots:

Increased cutting rate- When Rachel and Book's Illustrating that what is (When rate of cutting intimate moment is broken happening is inconvenient. between shots is made by Eli's dialogue in German. Afterwards Eli followed faster.) Rachel in the house and reinforced his fear that if she continues with this behaviour then she will risk being 'shunned' according to the Ordung.

4) Identify the themes raised in the scene and provide proof of this. CULTURE CLASH: This term is often used to describe the kind of discomfort individuals feel when they move into an unfamiliar social grouping. The ideas, values, habits to which these individuals are accustomed are challenged or contradicted by the ideas, values and customs of the group or community they enter. “Collision of two worlds”, the idealistic world of the Amish comes into conflict with the ugly sub-culture of police corruption, leading to internal conflict in their close knit community. The Amish also come into conflict within the local culture. When the key characters, Book and Rachel fall in love, the gap between cultures is further emphasised, this drives the drama.

MISUSE AND ABUSE OF POWER: WHEN PERSONS IN AUTHORITY ABUSE POWER FOR PERSONAL GAIN, IT MAKES IT DIFFICULT FOR THOSE WHO ARE HONEST AND WHO TAKE ACTION. REOCCURRING THEME . Where one’s superiors are corrupt, a person must risk their own credibility or even their life in order to see justice prevail. Book is a study in self reliance. Those he can trust in the outside world are either eliminated or powerless to help him. He must draw on his inner reserves to finally overcome the evil of Schaeffer. The Amish, for all their values, have no answer to the violence perpetrated by the outsiders. Only through Book’s methods can justice be achieved. The Amish gather at the end to bear witness to Schaeffer’s attempts to eliminate Book, so in this sense, that the quiet and passive presence of the Amish assist in eliminating Schaeffer as a threat.

Appearances often contradict reality: Book’s first thought after Samuel’s initial description of the murderer is a suspect in a nightclub. He forces this man from the bar and slams him up against the window of the police car for Samuel to identify.. He never suspects the murderer to be one of his own. The silent realisation that it is McFee and the shock with which this registers on Book shakes his perception of reality. Book’s trust in Schaeffer is ironic too. The happy family man, ‘honest cop’ Schaeffer is in on the plan and now Book has made him aware that he has a witness to the crime. The idle gossip in the Amish community about B and R’s relationship.. While there is some basis for gossip which has them pre-judging them, both are considerably more moral than we first think. Audience is also forced to consider their own perceptions of reality, is love able to conquer everything or is this simply an idealised view of love?

GROUP 5 Part A I) Synopsis of scene 13 In this scene there is a confrontation between book and several people. Initially we see all the tourists getting off a bus wearing bright and colourful clothes and carrying modern technology. This is contrasted to the Amish people who we can see getting out of the buggies, wearing dull simple Amish attire and carrying bags of flour and other simple things. There is then the first confrontation of the scene between Book and a tourist, the tourist asks so take his photo which book replies “Lady, take my picture with that thing and I'm going to rip your brasierre off and strangle you with it” Book then tries to call Carter, his partner only to find that he has been “Killed in the line of duty” obviously in relation to Shaeffer and that situation. There is then a change in the Lighting of the scene and the body language of Carter as it goes dark and uses an over the shoulder high angle shot Booke then rings Shaeffers home, Suspenseful music is playing at this point, and speaks with shaeffer threatening him, another confrontation in this scene. “Im going to get you, whatever you did to zenovich, what you did to carter, Im going to fucking do that to you, you asshole” Shaeffers body language then shifts as sweat begins to appear on his brow as he becomes aware that Booke has the upper hand. The scene then cuts to Book in the buggie with Eli as they are confronted by a group of Non Amish men on a street trying to start a fight with Daniel, another amish man. Book then goes against Eli's advice and confronts the men, fighting with main one of the group. The old shopkeeper then speaks with a police officer, “he was with old Eli Lapp” Giving away Books location to the police.

Part A ii)

Techniques Example Effect Diagetic sounds The bus and the tourists The effect this has on the viewer is that allows them to position themselves in the situation Contrasting The clothes of the amish are The effect this has on the dull and simple. The tourists viewer is that it allows them to clothes are colourful and visualize the changes in Amish elaborate. society in comparison to the City lifestyle that Booke lives Low angle shot Shows the dominance of book The effect this has on the over the tourists. viewer is that it gives the impression of how the Amish people are dominant on this area of the country. Mis-en-scene The Coke vending machine at The effect this has on the the store viewer is it shows the way that modern society is encroaching on the amish world Sequencing of shots Shift between Book threatening The effect this has on the the tourist and Eli's reaction viewer is it allows the director to create a visual display of the changing attitudes of the characters Close Up shot Book in the telephone box The effect this has on the viewer is that it gives the viewer a greater sense of emotions that booke is feeling Lighting The light starts to change as he The effect this has on the is asking for carter and finds viewer is that it sets an emotion out about carters death of the scene and gives the viewer a sense of anticipation and suspense Body language Book turns away from the The effect this has on the camera when he finds out carter viewer is that it creates a visual is dead, look of shock sense of the emotions of book in this particular scene Low angle shot Shaffer wife answers telephone. The effect this has on the viewer is that it creates a sense of dominance of book over the situation juxtaposition The family is outside in the The effect this has on the light while shaeffer is inside in viewer is that it shows a the dark, contrasted by a wire contrast between the “dirty door cop” side of shaeffer and his family Expletives Book is angry at Schaeffer for The effect this has on the killing his friends “I'm going to viewer is that it gives the fucking do that to you too, you viewer a sense of the emotions asshole.” that book is feeling and creates a scene of reality that can be contrasted, especially with the relaxed lifestyle of the amish Dolly shot Book walking towards the other Allows the viewer to “follow” men booke into the scene and gives them a sense of being involved in the scene

PART A iii) THEMES: Chapter 13 raises the themes of appearance vs reality and the clash of two worlds: corruption vs honesty. The intrusion of the corrupt world of the english to the honest life of the Amish is evident through the contrast of clothing, behaviours and mis-en-scene. Framing in the Mis-en-scene of the modern day transport, shops and machines such as the coke vending machine juxtaposes to the old fashioned horse and buggies of the Amish. This highlights the clash of the two different worlds of the Amish and 'English' people and is reinforced through their clothing. The tourists wear extravagant clothing and their frenetic behaviour contrasts to the dull ordinary Amish outfits and their controlled actions as they hid away from the tourist's cameras. This emphasises the Amish's slow and simple lifestyle and their commitment to abide by the rules of the Amish community. Book's threatening tone and dialogue “Lady if you take my picture, I'm going to rip your brassiere off and strangle you with it” and when he confronts and fights the tourists Book is displayed as an outsider as he doesn't belong to the harmonious life of the Amish and illustrates the disruption of the corrupt to the Amish's peaceful lives. The theme appearance Vs reality is conveyed through the juxtaposition at Schaeffer's house. The happy family and bright lighting creates the allusion of Schaeffer as a good man which is juxtaposed to the dark lighting and eery music which introduces the theme of appearance Vs reality.

PART B a) There is a obvious contrast between the Amish and tourists' behaviour and clothes. The tourists wear bright colourful clothing and display frenetic behaviour which contrasts to the dull ordinary Amish outfits and their controlled actions as they hid away from the tourist's cameras which emphasises the Amish's slow and simple lifestyle and their commitment to abide by the rules of the Amish community. b) The tour guide warns the viewer of the cultural differences between the Amish and the tourists through dialogue, “Be careful when photographing the Amish people, they don't like it but you can sneak one now and then”. c) When Book discovers Carter was killed “in the line of duty” Weir displays the change in mood through camera angles, lighting and music. An over the shoulder camera angle and a close up shot of Book's face used in the dark telephone box accompanied with dramatic music conveys Book's anger and “dark” mood. d) Book's motivation in taking revenge at this time as he learns about Carter's murder by the corrupt 'english' and therefore takes it out on the 'english' tourists. The Amish such as Eli's reaction is disappointed and Daniel disapprove but silently appreciates it which is evident as he protects Book saying “he's my cousin, from Ohio”. The storekeeper is disgusted at Book's actions as the Amish people aren't supposed to act in a violent way and he has never seen an outburst from an Amish person before especially towards a tourist which highlights Book as an outsider of the Amish community as he doesn't follow their “way”. e) The dolly shot forces the audience to move with Book as he approaches the group of louts ridiculing the Amish men as it increases the tension and allows the audience to be part of the conflict and share Book's anger. f) The effect of showing the lout's bloodied face and the reactions of his companions conveys their shock that an Amish would have an outburst such as Book which highlights the contrast between Book and the Amish cultures and behaviours. GROUP 6

Part A: Handouts

1. Synopsis (Summary); Why it is important in relation to the plot- The overall story

• Schaffer, Mcfee and Fergie invade armish land in their car – go to lupe's farm • Invade the house bashing down the door and scary Rachael • Eli comes from the barn and sees the cops and shouts out to john • Mcfee hits Eli and drops the milk • Mcfee and Fergie go looking for Booke. • Booke tells Samuel to run! • Samuel runs away to the other farm only to look back after gun shots • Book tries to start the car then runs from Fergie • Hides in the Corn Silo and Fergie nearly finds him • Booke tricks Fergie into entering the Silo and pulls the trigger to release the wheat- drowning fergie • Booke goes and gets Fergie's gun • Then climbs out as Mcfee approaches and Booke kills Mcfee • Shaeffer holds Rachael and Eli hostage and sends Eli away to stop Samuel ringing the bell • Shaeffer keeps the gun to Rachaels head until Booke surrenders • Schaeffer then lets go of Rachael and holds Booke hostage • Armish community approach the farm • Booke then is let go as the armish community have a stronger presences • Booke tells shaeffer its over and he then drops his gun and surrenders Technical Analysis:

Technique Example Effect Wide shot Car appearing over Positions the responder to view the the hill corrupt police invading Amish land. Establishing shot 3 men invading the farm with loaded guns Symbolism The bump on the hill Highlights the barrier between the city and the Amish land. Diegetic sounds sounds of the car Add authenticity to the movie

footsteps getting closer to the farm

breaking the door

screaming

squeaking gate

gun shots

opening the door of the grain silo Technique Example Effect Dialouge Claiming that there Allows the responder to interact “police officers” with the movie

“Its Booke we want.” - Shaffer

“What is it? What are they doing?”

“Are they going to kill you?” - Samuel innocence and confused

“Run Samuel run!”

You gonna shoot me? You gonna shoot him? “Its over enough” “Enough”

Close up shot Close up of bullets Displays more detail and guns Rush of unloading bulltet

Booke- Come on - desperation Close up of Bookes mouth Close up Bookes face - struggle, sweat on the ladder Gaze Books demanding Exerts the seriousness of Book Gaze at Samuel - Highlights seriousness of event protecting Samuel Music Eerie and Used for suspence suspenseful music

fastpaced building up to a climax Technique Example Effect High angle shot High angle shot on Showing her vulenrabilty Rachael Facial expressions Rachael - Facial Displays the desperation of the expressions characters Scared

Book - On ladder helplessness

Body language Rachael - retreating Highlighting Rachel's futile situation

Silence When Book is at the Used for suspence top of the ladder

Themes:

THEME EXAMPLE EFFECT Violence Schaeffer, Mc Fee and Fergie then Displays cultural the emerge from the car with loaded barrier between the shotguns. Amish who are non violent and citydwellers. Eli walks back form the barn with milk and sees Mc Fee and yells to Book and is then struck down.

Book then takes refuge in the top of the silo lures Fergie in the bottom and empties grain on top of him eventually killing him.

Community When Samuel rings the bell and the Amish Highlights the power of community stop what there doing and go to community over Eli’s farm. Its this sense of community that individualism defeats Schaffer. Abuse of “Were police officers” “The mans wanted for Highlights the abuse of power/greed murder” their authority to unethically gain power due to a financial motivator Questions:

5) How is it made clear that the police are unprepared for a chase at the farm?

In a previous scene Eli wakes Book up for milking duty in the early morning. It is in the early hours of the morning that the police arrive at the farm for a surprise attack. Due to the Amish lifestyle of working, Eli was awake and was able to alert Book. The emphasis of the clash between two worlds is evident when Mc Fee steps in cow manure, which is expected to be at a farm with cows in it. His reaction also makes it clear that the police were unprepared for a chase at the farm.They were expecting that everyone would be asleep.

b) How do Book's actions result in the death of the first policeman? How can we justify Book's actions?

Books actions symbolise the corruption of the police and his changing ways as he puts the Amish before the people who once were a big part of him. Due to Samuel teaching Book the Amish culture of the silo he is able to defend himself against Fergie and within this defense mechanism kills Fergie. He is trying to protect his own life, but also the many lives of the Amish people. c) What does the close up of Eli reveal?

The close up of Eli reveals his fear and shock that Samuel has fled from safety to a dangerous situation.

d) What message does he silently communicate to Samuel? Why is it important?

Eli silently with the use of hand actions to pull on the bell. This action enables Samuel to know how to warn the Amish community that there is trouble within there home. It is important as the Amish community come to save Book as they treat him as part of their community. There sense of community stops Schaffer from killing Book and ends the corruption.

e) What message does is Weir giving the audience about the Amish in this climatic scene?

The message Weir gives to the audience that the Amish are not self centered and are always willing to help no matter what it is. Their community spirit is displayed in the barn raising scene and in the climatic scene of Book and the amish standing together against Schaffer. The music accompanies and reinforces this message. GROUP 7

Part A:

1. The final chapter of this film is all about acceptance and understanding between John Book and the Amish community. Book comes to realisation that it is in his best interest to leave the Amish behind, and return back to the city where he lived initially. The viewer first witnesses Book saying goodbye to Samuel on the farm, which is a very significant part of the scene, as Samuel was the reason of which Book came to live with the Amish people in the first place. Following this, we watch Rachel and Book make their farewell, which in fact is silence. No words are spoken, nor is music heard. This is an effective technique used by Weir, as it highlights that the two characters have grown to like each other over the time the John has spent living with the amish, however in saying this, the two both know that it is only right for John to leave and return to the city where he belongs. As Book turns and reluctantly leaves Rachel, walking towards his car, a verbal goodbye is evident from Eli – the head leader of the Amish community – who initially was a bit sceptical of the fact that John was staying in the Amish community, whereby he states “You be careful out there among them English”. As viewers, we become aware of the acceptance that Eli has had for John, and the ever-giving care that he has for him. John Book then begins to drive up the road to leave the Amish community. In the shot, we see the repaired bird house, of which Book fixed. This symbolises the fact that he is not coming back, however cared enough for the Amish that he fixed it. As he continues to drive up the road, we see Daniel walking the opposite was. The two men farewell, and continue on their way. This portrays the characters differences and suitability to their own worlds, and also brings our attention to the fact that Daniel can now have Rachel as his own.

2. Below is a technical analysis that focuses on how the scene was constructed to position the responder:

Costume:- The difference in costume between john and Rachel highlights the differences they they have, but differences aside, their forbidden love keeps going even when book leaves.

Music:- As john leaves the amish community in his car, music is played to convey that there is now peace and tranquility back in amish land and that nothing evil will disturb the amish again. It is fluent and cheerful, symbolising everyones joy and happiness that they have defeated the evil. It also links back with the start of the film symbolising no evil at the start, no evil now.

Silence:- However, in contrast to the music, the silence between book and rachel emphasises the twos forbidden love and acknowledges the acceptance that they both know that book must leave.

Backdrop and lighting:- The difference in back drop between rachel and john is contrasted to reflect the diffferent worlds they live in. Behind John is an open valley with the road ending at the top of the horizon, whereas behind Rachel is darkness as she stands 'trapped' in the doorway. This emphasises how rachel is also trapped in her amish house and in the amish world. On the other hand john is free to leave and 'explore' 3. Within the final scene, there are a range of themes that are evident to the responder. Themes such as acceptance, forbidden love, good vs evil and the world of the amish are portrayed and expressed thoroughly in the scene, with the aid of the following techniques used by Peter Wier:

The backdrop behind Book as he farewells Rachel, highlights the freedom and flexibility that he has as he leaves the Amish community, however behind Rachel is the house, with closed windows and doors, which symbolises the fact that Rachel is trapped in her Amish world with the daily routine which she endures. This technique highlights the contrast between the world of the Amish and the English.

The Costumes worn by the actresses in the scene underlines the differences between the two worlds of the English, and the Amish. John Book is shown to be wearing the kind of clothes that he would the city in which he lived, and Rachel, Samuel and Eli are wearing the clothes that all the Amish people generally wear. This highlights the differences that Book and Rachel have, and an even more reason that it is right for John to leave and return to the City.

The silence and no dialogue in this scene emphasises the forbidden love of that Rachel and Book have grown for each other. This technique additionally expresses Books acceptance within the Amish community, as he knows that it is his time for him to go, however this is a voluntary act.

The music, as John leaves symbolises the way of the Amish and the contrast between good and evil as the music symbolises peace and tranquility back in 'Amish land', similar to the start and the opening of the film as peace is restored within the community.

Part B:

a) Weir Frames Rachel viewing her through windows, silhouetted in doorways, whereas Book is outdoors. In this scene, observe and note down the elements in the frame which convey their differences. 6) Costume – Rachel is in her traditional Amish clothes, and Book is in the Business clothes that he would wear in the city. 7) Body Language / Facial Expressions – Both Rachel and Book know that it is in their best interest for Book to leave. Their expressions show that they both know the right decision has been made. 8) Silence – the silence and no dialogue conveys the twos understanding of the differences of the two worlds. 9) Backdrop – John Book has a backdrop of the whole farm behind him, which implies that he is free to leave the farm and is able to 'explore' what is in front of him. However Rachel has a backdrop of the Amish home with no exposure to anything else, which highlights that she is trapped in her amish world, continually doing the things that she does everyday. b) What meaning do you think they communicated in their silent farewell? They understand that they are both suited to their own worlds, however Book is reluctant to leave Rachel and Samuel. In saying this, Rachel and Book both know that it is the right decision for Book to leave the Amish community. c) Suggest a meaning for their choices of the backdrop behind each of them. The differences in backdrops highlights that Book is free and able to leave the Amish community, which can be seen through the use of a wide backdrop of the farm, whereas Rachel is trapped in her own Amish world, doing the repetitive daily routine that all the Amish people endure. d) Listen to Eli's farewell comment to Book and explain how he has changed his attitude to Book. “You be careful out there among them English” - (Book smiles and waves back) – highlights the change in Eli's attitude towards Book in the time that John has lived on the farm. Initially Eli did not accept the fact that an Englishman was living on the Amish farm, however as Eli came to realise that Book was helping out the Amish community, he began to accept and understand the Book was a good person, hence giving him a nice farewell message. e) What is implied by having Daniel walking towards the Lapp farm as Book drives away to the city? Daniel is replacing Books spot on the Amish farm, and now has the opportunity to be with Rachel.