MovieChat Forums > L'illusionniste (2011) Discussion > Why no close ups?

Why no close ups?

posted 11 years ago by timothyhodge
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I have not read any thing about the production of this film. Does anyone know why Chomet decided not to cut to any close-ups of the characters? The entire film was longs shots and medium shots. The camera work overall was much more sedate than Triplets, and I realize that the story is an entirely different feel, and thus reflected in the cinematography. But for such an emotional film, I really would've liked to have seen a face or two fill the screen.

[–] gloops 11 years ago

It's an homage to Tati's directing style. His films were designed for the big screen, not TV. The camera is set up, stuff happens with few cuts, and you'll likely miss half the little details in the background until the second or third viewing. It doesn't lead the audience, telegraph or manipulate, just lets you draw your own conclusions.