[Audio] How do contemporary multimodal texts present the qualities of a hero to engage audiences?.
[Audio] What is a Multimodal text? The term "multimodal" refers to the different mediums in which information can be transferred. In the context of literature, this usually refers to films as they have audio and visuals, however, can also relate to books with images. Multimodal texts create an engaging environment for the recipient as it allows for a further understanding of the text and creates an immersive feeling; deepening the emotional connection between the recipient and the characters within the text. This presentation will explore the multimodal texts of 2 films "Batman begins" directed by Christopher Nolan, produced in 2005, and "Jumanji: welcome to the jungle" directed by jake Kasdan, produced in 2017..
[Audio] Heroes journey A 'hero' is displayed to be as someone with extraordinary attributes. It is usually someone who is admired for their courage, and bravery and tries to make the world a better place by saving other people from evil. The 'Heroes journey' is a structure which depicts the common heroes' story. It is shown as a circle because of its cyclical nature, repeating over and over. The heroes' journey is evident in both 'batman begins' and 'Jumanji: welcome to the jungle' as both stories start with a normal life, and then lead to the "special world".
[Audio] Batman begins – Im batman! This scene is a vital scene which displays Bruce Wayne's transformation into becoming a superhero. Within this scene, we can see different camera angles and cinematic techniques being used. Throughout the entirety of the scene, non-diegetic audio is being played to enhance the feel of the eerie, dark environment, keeping the audience filled with suspense. It is also used when an action occurs such as when Batman captures his enemies. This creates a dramatic effect, and the repetition of this sound displays how efficient Batman is. The camera angles used within this scene also carry a significant factor when trying to engage the audience. There are many close-up shots which only display the characters (villains in this case) face. This is to show their emotion of fear, showing us that the hero is the superior character. Many cinematic techniques are used for the purpose of creating a more engaging environment for the audience. Additionally, the implementation of these cinematic techniques, enhance the immersiveness experienced by the recipient, once again justifying the great engagement produced within this scene..
[Audio] Batman begins – Im batman! A hero's origin tale is actively demonstrated in the "I'm Batman" scene. Bruce Wayne's journey from a terrified victim to Gotham City's ray of hope is revealed to us. The scene highlights the impact that a hero can have. Batman's ability to become a force for good is demonstrated by the fear that his deep voice and black shadow instill in the criminals he is facing. Batman is seen for the first time in Gotham, therefore this sets the stage for his upcoming conflicts with other criminals. Batman's presence gives the city a source although they are struggling. This moment serves as a lesson to the audience about how a hero can emerge from tragedy, turning evil into fear and providing a sense of hope for a city in need..
[Audio] Jumanji: welcome to the jungle – Helicopter Rhino Chase This scene is an action-packed scene where the characters are in danger from extremely powerful rhinos chasing them. Within this scene, many cinematic techniques are incorporated. For example, the non-diegetic audio. This audio was included to dramatize the action within the scene. The pace and pitch of the audio creates a faster paced environment and therefore keeps the audience intrigued. Many camera techniques are also evident within this scene such as a wide-establishing shot. This is done to display the surrounding environment for the scene, giving the audience some context, minimizing the potential confusion that would've came if this wide-establishing shot wasn't included. Many close-ups are also presented, this is to show the characters variety of emotions whilst undergoing an intense task. Showing the characters' varying emotions makes the film more realistic, therefore inflicting an emotional connection between the characters and the recipients. Fast cuts are also shown within the scene, this enhances and exaggerates the fast pace of the environment. Overall, all these cinematic/camera techniques provide a more engaging experience for the audience..
[Audio] Jumanji: welcome to the jungle – Helicopter Rhino Chase Similarly to 'Batman Begins', this text teaches the audience that anybody can become a hero. Spencer (Dwayne Johnson in the given scene), was a skinny, nerdy person who was considered inferior by his classmates. Once teleported into the game, he is seen as a brave hero however still has internal self-conflict. Even when he becomes scared, he finds the courage to push through the task he must face. This teaches the audience that everyone may feel scared or uncomfortable, however, to achieve outstanding results, you must step outside your comfort zone, this also teachers the audience to conquer their fears. This film also displays that working in a team is always better than being alone, as they all collaborated, using everyone's unique skills, they were able to make it back to the real world..
[Audio] Overall, the heros journey, and the qualities of a hero are actively demonstrated within multimodal texts throughout different types of techniques. The varying techniques ensure that the audience is engaged within the entirety of the text, mitigating any confusion or slow paced/boring scenes. The use of fast cuts within Jumanji allows for the sense of being within a high-paced environment and within Batman, the uses of non-diegetic audio creates a sense of suspense within the audience, always keeping them intrigued and wanting to watch more. Both texts utilize close up camera shots extremely effectively, showing the characters emotions throughout. Furthermore, both movies give the audience a moral lesson, showing us to face our fears and build our courage. Both films greatly display what a hero's qualities are, and demonstrate the hero's journey..