Mock question: For 10 marks – Explore how circular imagery is used as a narrative device in Moon
Circular imagery is used as a narrative device in the film Moon, for example in the opening sequence where we see a graphical match cut between a sand dune into a green desert using circular imagery. The image explores the idea that Lunar Industries are responsible for saving the environment, turning dry and bland deserts into new and flourishing green ones where wild life and plants can grow. This suggests that Lunar industries has the power to change the world for the better by using their technology when actually it is their technology that is destroying the world, leading to industrialisation and the destruction of the natural world. This links to my next point as circular imagery is also used in the opening montage sequence showing the image of a Ferris wheel which cuts to a lit-up city at night. This establishes the binary opposition between the moon and earth, linking the circular imagery of the wheel with the moon, as well as the fact it gives the spectator an initial impression of the manipulation and power Lunar Industries has over Sam. This acts as a narrative device as the advert focuses on using imagery with happy and positive connotations in order to promote their brand, especially as there is no mention of Sam on the moon, which can be applied throughout the film. Next, circular imagery is used in Moon as a narrative device through the use of a cross fade between the image of the sun rising and the circular imagery of the earth. This suggests that Lunar Industries is responsible for the change to the entire world, appearing as humanity’s saviours, as it symbolises the dawn of a new age and a second chance for the environment to flourish, using the ongoing theme of humanity and the environment. Circular imagery is also used throughout the film to symbolise the difference between the moon and the earth, separating the two as very unequal places. For example the setting, in particular the rounded doors and corridors within Sam’s moon base, includes circular imagery reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey. This can be particularly seen using the establishing shot looking through the windows Sam running on the treadmill, using a fisher he lens. This establishes the 2 differ perspective of both Sam and Lunar Industries, as they appear to be spying on Sam. This acts as a narrative devices as it suggests Sam is constantly being watched and reminds the audience of how he has been abandoned by the company. Lastly circular imagery is used as a narrative device to create meaning through the use of closeups. For example in the ending sequence we see the reflection of Sam 2 in Sam 1’s space helmet, thus repeating the circular imagery. This is significant as it gives a sense that Sam is trapped and gives the feeling of claustrophobia, emphasising how he is being controlled by the company relating to the theory of Marxism, which is key to the narrative.
Emma Coe Film Studies 