How does the way in which time is structured in a film affect the narrative. With references to High Noon, and Ned Kelly

Essay by shrekthedonutkingHigh School, 12th gradeA+, April 2004

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The way in which time is structured within a film determines how the audience perceive, and accept, the narrative of the film. The fictional film narratives Ned Kelly and High Noon, handle time completely differently from one another. Ned Kelly follows the life of notorious bushranger, Ned Kelly, from his first encounter with police when he was 16, through to his capture at Glen Rowan when he was 25. High Noon however is filmed in real time: one minute of film time is one minute of real time, similar to the television show "24". The story of the film High Noon spans a mere one and half hours. Ned Kelly, however, tells a story spanning nine years. This, of course, leads to us the audience, interpreting the films differently.

The use of real time filming in High Noon gives the audience a heightened sense of suspense. Throughout the movie, the audience is aware that every passing minute is one real minute closer to noon, and when noon arrives, so does the train carrying Frank Miller, the notorious gunslinger.

The use of clocks in High Noon is emphasizes the importance of time and also provides a running commentary for the viewer on how much time Kane has left. The secondary storylines, such as the break up of Kane's marriage to Amy, Harvey's resignation as deputy and Ellen's background with Miller, are supported by the use of real time editing. Kane's marriage occurred less than 2 hours before he heard the news of Frank's coming. In a very short time, Kane has abandoned his new wife to defend a town which doesn't really like, or want, him. This action shows Kane's callousness but also his morals of responsibly and obligation. Harvey's resignation, and ultimate abandonment of Kane in his...