Grand Illusion Excerpt 6: The show—“La Marseillaise” scene (1’22”)

Excerpt 6

 Questions

1.

What type of shot dominates this excerpt?

2.

Describe the camera movements which make this particular shot possible.

3.

What is rather unusual in this shot, from the viewpoint of film technique?

4. What is striking as regards the decision to sing “The Marseillaise,” the French National Anthem?
5. What are the thematic implications of the form of this shot?
6. What important theme is found in the fact that all the prisoners sing “The Marseillaise”?

Commentary : Excerpt 6