Children Of Men By Alfonso Cuaron: Film Analysis

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“I can’t really remember when I last had hope” says Theo, referring to the fact that women cannot have babies anymore. It may seem that the hope was gone, but Theo shows the viewers that anything is possible if one tries. Children of Men directed by Alfonso Cuaron is an action packed movie filled with mystery and suspense. Theo, the protagonist, is destined to complete his mission, but is it possible with all of the conflicts that block his path? The importance of hope is the key. Through the proficient use of film techniques such as long takes, lighting, and sound, Cuaron accurately elucidates the importance of preserving hope.

One of the key film techniques used to show the importance of hope is lighting. This approach is used to create …show more content…

Different sounds have different effects on viewers. Non-diegetic sound cannot be heard by characters, only by the viewers. This technique makes the audience think about what the sound may mean in connection to the story. Different sounds can create different moods. Different sounds may include music and sound effects. While the baby is being born, a strong music is being played. The song suddenly begins when the baby is released from Kee. It has a slow and relaxing beat. The sudden start of music symbolizes the sudden feeling of hope that went through the characters when the baby was born. The slow and calm factor emphasizes the importance of keeping hope within one’s self. Diegetic sound is a type of noise that both viewers and characters can hear. This technique shows how the characters feel. It can also create signs of foreshadowing. During Jasper’s death scene, following the departure of his cousin, Theo, he re-enters his house. When settled inside, he reaches for the music remote and starts playing “Ruby Tuesday” by Franco Battiato. This song has a depressed sound to it. Jared grabs his suicide kit, bringing it to the paralyzed lady sitting beside him. With the lyrics “I’m gonna miss you” being repeated in this song, it shows the viewers what he is doing to his peers and pet, killing them. This scene demonstrates how Jasper had no hope left in him. His choices were death. This shows the viewers the importance of hope because regarding Jasper, if one does not contain hope, no goals will be achieved. Sound is a key factor in this film regarding explaining the theme of importance of hope. By using multiple forms of sound, Cuaron distributes the theme