Research findings
The gaze
Colman, F. (2014). examines different factors that impact spectatorship, revealing the intricate dynamics involved in the experience of watching films. The gaze is crucial in guiding viewers' focus and influencing their interaction with on-screen content. The appearance of the characters and the way they are portrayed on camera can have a significant impact on the audience's emotions and thoughts. In addition, the way the narrative perspective is constructed has a significant impact on how viewers understand and make sense of the events depicted on screen. There are various storytelling methods, like point-of-view shots or non-linear storytelling, that can evoke different emotional and cognitive responses, enhancing the viewing experience. Furthermore, the way visual elements on the screen interact with the physical environment off the screen enhances the level of immersion and engagement felt by viewers. The visual elements work together to create an aesthetic that goes beyond the screen, blurring the boundaries between the fictional world and the viewer's reality. In general, these components play a crucial role in shaping the audience's perception of a movie, impacting their emotional connection, understanding of the story, and overall level of engagement.
Cultural and social contexts
Mayne (2002) delves into the intricate relationship between film spectatorship and the cultural, social, and historical contexts that surround it. She highlights the profound impact that personal viewing experiences can have on individuals, as well as the broader societal influences that shape our understanding of films. Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping how viewers interpret film content and emotionally respond to cinematic narratives. Understanding cultural contexts is crucial for viewers to interpret themes, symbols, and representations in films, as it greatly influences how they engage with the content. Gender, race, class, and identity all play a role in how viewers perceive and respond to films, as they intersect with cultural dynamics.If we take, for instance, how individuals from different social backgrounds perceive characters, relationships, and conflicts in films. Their unique experiences and identities shape their interpretations and reactions, resulting in a diverse range of perspectives. In addition, understanding the historical context is essential for shaping the audience's perception of films, as it situates them within broader historical, political, and social frameworks. Having knowledge of historical events, movements, and perspectives enables viewers to grasp the significance of film content and its connection to contemporary issues. Ultimately, Mayne's analysis highlights the complex relationship between personal viewing habits and the larger cultural, social, and historical contexts, revealing how film responses are intricately tied to broader cultural and societal influences. During my journaling, I realised that I often struggle to connect with certain international films. The cultural differences and language barriers make it challenging to fully immerse myself in the movie while simultaneously reading the subtitles. I found this to be quite challenging and felt like I was missing out on many of the subtleties in the language and film. Although, It is true that our perception and response to films are influenced by factors such as gender, race, class, and identity. I found the works of filmmakers like Andrea Arnold and Shane Meadows to be incredibly captivating and immersive, even though I didn't come from a working-class background. I found the portrayal of life on the breadline to be incredibly captivating and immersive. It truly allows you to deeply connect with the characters and their struggles, making it much easier to empathise with their stories.
Interpersonal dynamics
The study conducted by Vorderer and Klimmt (2021) highlights the significance of character development and interpersonal relationships in influencing the level of viewer engagement with films. Viewers develop emotional connections with characters through the portrayal of their relationships, motivations, and personalities on screen, as per their research findings. As the story unfolds, viewers may find themselves relating to characters who face challenges or achieve successes similar to their own, thus deepening their emotional connection and investment in the plot. In addition, the presentation of complex characters with diverse personalities and motivations can evoke viewers' empathy and a wide range of emotional responses, enhancing their complete immersion in the movie. By exploring the nuances of character development and interpersonal interactions, filmmakers can effectively cultivate audience empathy and connection. This leads to a much more engaging and emotionally powerful cinematic experience. I've come to understand that character development plays a crucial role in crafting a compelling storyline. When character development is lacking, I find myself feeling disconnected and unable to fully engage with the narrative. It's important to establish a connection with the characters in order to truly understand and appreciate their stories. Films like "A Beautiful Mind," "Baby Reindeer," and "The Responder" excel at creating this emotional bond, allowing you to empathise with the characters regardless of their backgrounds or social status.
Individual differences
Zillmann and Vorderer's research emphasises the intricate connections between personal biases and cinematic stimuli. It recognises how individual differences, like personality traits and cultural background, influence viewers' preferences, interpretations, and emotional responses to films. Overall, their research provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape audience engagement with cinematic narratives. I found this to be accurate. I discovered that I gravitated towards dark films that explored the depths of the human psyche and condition. I found shows like black mirror and baby reindeer to be quite captivating, as they reflected the depth of my emotions and moods.
Editing, cinematography and sound design
Smith's (2022) research provides a comprehensive examination of how film elements such as editing, photography, and sound design influence audience perception of fiction and their interpretation of the boundary between fact and fiction in cinematic narratives. Editing is a crucial aspect of filmmaking as it has a significant impact on the rhythm, timing, and sequence of scenes. These factors ultimately influence how viewers engage with the story on both emotional and cognitive levels. The rapid cuts, juxtapositions, and montages used in this technique can blur the line between reality and fiction, intensify tension, convey information, and evoke specific emotional responses. Similarly, the way visual compositions are framed, perspective is manipulated, and spatial relationships are established within the film world all have significant impacts on how viewers perceive space and become immersed in the narrative context. Furthermore, sound design, encompassing elements such as music, dialogue, and sound effects, enhances the auditory dimension of storytelling by evoking emotions in the viewers, establishing a specific atmosphere, and guiding their focus and interpretation of the on-screen events. These film techniques have a profound impact on audiences' mental processes, emotions, and perception, shaping their engagement with fiction and the interpretation of cinematic stories. Smith's analysis emphasises the importance of understanding the language of cinema and its impact on viewers' perceptions of reality and imagination. It provides insight into the dynamic relationship between audience interpretation and film techniques that influences the viewing experience. I noticed this to be consistent in my journaling. Certain shots, like close-ups of Dexter's face in "One Day" (2024), and the scores for films like "American Beauty" (1999), "A Beautiful Mind" (2001), and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" (2004), were incredibly powerful in evoking emotions. When I enjoy a soundtrack, it enhances my engagement with the film and increases the likelihood of me wanting to watch it again.
Active engagement
Viewers engage with films as active participants, shaping their understanding and interpretation of cinematic narratives through their interaction with various elements of the film. Engaging with visual imagery is crucial for effectively conveying storylines, themes, and emotions. Understanding the symbolic language of film is made easier for moviegoers through visual cues, motifs, and metaphors, which help to enrich the overall meaning-making process. Viewers immerse themselves in the narrative structure of films, analysing plot developments, character arcs, and thematic concepts as they unfold on screen. This rewuiires cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and comprehension. By combining various elements of the story, we can construct a cohesive narrative. Moviegoers interact with audiovisual elements like music, sound effects, and dialogue to enhance emotional impact, establish the atmosphere, and influence viewers' emotional responses to the story. Viewers play a crucial role in bringing films to life as they engage with the visuals, storylines, and audiovisual elements, infusing their own interpretations and significance into cinematic narratives. Viewers have a significant impact on the interpretation of the film.
Emotions are a key factor in shaping our film experience, influencing how engaged we become with the story. Establishing a strong emotional connection with the characters on screen is crucial for a meaningful engagement. Developing a strong emotional bond with characters is crucial for engaging viewers in their stories, allowing them to connect with their experiences and challenges, and fostering a sense of empathy and identification with their personal journeys. The tension in the story heightens the emotional impact of the film, evoking suspense, excitement, and anticipation as the plot unfolds. The tension in the story keeps you hooked and invested, making the viewing experience even more intense. In addition, the film's visual and technical aspects, including aesthetics, cinematography, and performances, play a crucial role in shaping the viewers' emotions. The movie's visuals, acting, and immersive sound have the ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, intensifying the overall emotional impact. These components work together to evoke and adjust viewers' emotional responses, enhancing their experience at the movies and creating a lasting impact that stays with them even after the end credits roll. www.proquest.com. (n.d.).
Plot development, character paths, and thematic concepts,
Creating films requires the careful development of storylines, character arcs, and themes that deeply resonate with audiences and shape their emotional connection to the story. This process centres on the intricate interplay of storytelling elements, moulding viewers' focus, comprehension, and emotional attachment to the film. The plot development creates a sense of suspense, intrigue, and resolution to keep viewers engaged and the story moving forward. Delving into the journeys of characters, uncovering their development and obstacles, forging a profound connection with the audience. In addition, the narrative is filled with thought-provoking thematic concepts that encourage viewers to reflect on the broader issues and ideas explored in the film. The storytelling elements seamlessly combine to engage viewers, drawing them into the cinematic world and eliciting both cognitive and emotional responses, resulting in a deeper comprehension of the film's complex narrative. Developing a strong foundation in filmmaking requires meticulous attention to plot, characters, and themes in order to captivate and deeply resonate with the audience. (Cutting, J.E. 2016).
Cognitive motor spectatorship
Understanding how viewers physically engage with films provides a fresh perspective on perception and comprehension. Engaging in various gestures such as leaning forward or covering your eyes during intense scenes, demonstrating a deep sense of emotional and physical immersion. In addition, the changes in postures and the emotional connection felt through touch demonstrate the strong physical bond between viewers and the story of the movie. This approach focusses on the physical and cognitive reactions to films, highlighting the immersive nature of the movie-watching experience. This is something I hadn't considered before. Ben asked me to research it after our tutorial, and to be honest, it felt a bit overwhelming after our conversation. I thought I had a clear idea of what I wanted to research, but I quickly realised that there were numerous scientific terms that completely flew over my head. It's surprising how many different elements need to be considered when making films, which, looking back, seems a bit naive on my part.
O’Connor, R. (2017).
Emotional involvement
Watching films is more than just passively observing - it requires active participation and physical reactions to the story. Forming a strong emotional connection with the characters greatly enhances the overall immersion in the world of the story. This connection can elicit physical and physiological responses, such as changes in heart rate or body position, which reflect the extent of emotional engagement. Viewers' emotional reactions to plot developments and thematic revelations greatly influence their movie experience, highlighting the link between cognitive and motor responses in film spectatorship. I hadn't given much consideration to my involvement in films, but I've come to realise that my emotional experiences with films were quite similar to those of others. I've always had a deep emotional bond with films. They have a profound impact on me. Tthe apathy I experience life and social situations can be incredibly lonely and isolating. However, when I engage with certain films, I find a profound connection to the stories and characters. This connection helps me break free from my apathy and feel more alive and connected to people. (Smith, M. 1995).
Embodied motor spectatorship
Malone, T. and Jackman, C. (2016) state that movie watching involves a dynamic interaction between viewers and films, where bodily responses and movements play a significant role. Viewers can physically engage with the narrative by leaning forward, shifting in their seats, or gesturing in response to intense or suspenseful scenes. Gesture and posture are important factors as well, as the audience tends to imitate the movements and expressions of the characters, thus embodying their emotions and actions. Viewers can physically experience the sensations and movements depicted on screen, blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality. The physical responses observed during active participation in watching a movie, such as changes in heart rate, sweating, or breathing patterns, highlight the strong emotional connection to the story being told. Immersing themselves in the film's world allows viewers to truly feel present and connected to the story, resulting in a heightened moviegoing experience. The active role of the body in interpreting and responding to film content enhances viewers' emotional, intellectual, and sensory engagement with the medium, making it a truly immersive experience. I've noticed this the most in horror films. Being frequently apathetic often leads me to gravitate towards horror and dark storylines. While not all the time enjoyable or positive, I appreciate films and shows that leave a lasting impression. I prefer things that have the power to stir strong emotions within me, whether it's a deeply moving film or a chilling horror. I find myself more captivated by storylines that are emotionally evocative and elicit strong physical and emotional reactions.
Sound
"Audiovisual Aesthetics in Contemporary Experimental Film" explores how experimental filmmakers use sound and image to create immersive sensory experiences, evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and prioritise aesthetic experimentation over narrative coherence. Directors use innovative audiovisual techniques to create immersive experiences that encourage viewers to engage with films on a visceral and emotive level. This encourages a dynamic and multi-dimensional interaction with the medium.
Plantinga explores the concept of affect and its significance in the film-viewing experience in "Emotion and Affect." Effect, separate from conscious emotions, impacts viewers' immediate and instinctive reactions to sensory stimuli in films. These emotional responses, expressed through physical sensations and engagement, influence how viewers perceive and interpret the film. Viewers effortlessly connect with the film's themes, moods, and settings, experiencing a deep emotional and physical immersion in the cinematic narrative. Plantinga's exploration highlights the importance of emotions in evoking immediate and deep viewer reactions, enhancing the film experience beyond conscious thinking and language-based understanding.
Plantinga explores the concept of affect and its significance in the film-viewing experience in "Emotion and Affect." Effect, separate from conscious emotions, impacts viewers' immediate and instinctive reactions to sensory stimuli in films. These emotional responses, expressed through physical sensations and engagement, influence how viewers perceive and interpret the film. Viewers effortlessly connect with the film's themes, moods, and settings, experiencing a deep emotional and physical immersion in the cinematic narrative. Plantinga's exploration highlights the importance of emotions in evoking immediate and deep viewer reactions, enhancing the film experience beyond conscious thinking and language-based understanding.
Treadway, M. T., & Zald, D. H. (2011). Reconsidering anhedonia in depression: lessons from translational neuroscience. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 35(3), 537-555.
Anhedonia response to film
Anhedonia is characterised by the inability to find pleasure or derive enjoyment from activities that are usually considered enjoyable or rewarding. It is commonly linked to a range of mental health disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. It can be difficult for individuals experiencing anhedonia to find pleasure in activities like social interactions, hobbies, or watching films. This condition can have a profound effect on a person's quality of life and overall well-being. (Cooper et.al 2018).
Social anhedonia
The paper authored by Jaime T. Carreno explores the correlation between social anhedonia and the emotional reactions triggered by watching films. The study sought to examine if individuals with social anhedonia, who have difficulty finding pleasure in social interactions, display variations in emotional experiences and expressions while watching films compared to individuals without social anhedonia. The study conducted empirical research with participants who had different levels of social anhedonia. It used self-report measures and observational methods to evaluate emotional responses before, during, and after film viewing sessions. The study showed that people with social anhedonia displayed unique emotional responses and expressions while watching films, in contrast to those without social anhedonia. Individuals with social anhedonia experienced lower levels of positive emotions, like joy and excitement, while watching films. They also showed less interest in the content of the films. These findings indicate that social anhedonia can impact how people perceive and react to emotional scenes in films. This emphasises the significance of taking into account individual variations in emotional responsiveness when examining the impact of cinematic experiences.
The study published in Psychological Medicine suggests that individuals with anhedonia may have different cognitive processes and emotional responses compared to those without this symptom. The research indicates that people with anhedonia may have difficulties in recognising and expressing emotions, which can result in decreased pleasure and involvement with different stimuli, such as emotional experiences triggered by films. Experiencing a lack of emotional response can make it challenging to find pleasure and satisfaction in activities that are usually enjoyable for most people. Furthermore, the study emphasises the significance of addressing anhedonia as a component of affective disorders, underscoring the necessity for customised interventions to tackle the specific difficulties experienced by individuals with this symptom. (cooper et.al. 2018)
Anhedonia treatments holistic
Spending time in natural environments, such as parks, forests, or near bodies of water, has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and increased feelings of relaxation and vitality. Experiencing nature can awaken the senses with its stunning visuals, calming sounds, revitalising air, and the enjoyable touch of the sun or breeze on your skin.
Aromatherapy has been associated with mood enhancement and stress reduction, thanks to certain scents and essential oils. For instance, lavender is often utilised for its soothing properties, while scents like lemon or orange can help create a sense of energy and positivity. Aromatherapy includes diffusing essential oils, using scented candles, or applying diluted oils to the skin.
Music Therapy: Music possesses the ability to elicit emotions, memories, and physical sensations. Engaging in activities like listening to music, singing, playing instruments, or dancing can stimulate the auditory system and evoke emotional responses. Music therapy interventions, led by a skilled therapist, can be customised to suit personal preferences and therapeutic objectives.
Art and Creativity: Participating in artistic activities like painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting provides an opportunity for self-expression, unleashing creativity, and exploring the senses. Working with art materials can provide a satisfying and enjoyable experience, as it engages our senses and allows us to express ourselves visually and emotionally.
Engage the mind and body with sensory-rich experiences like cooking, gardening, or DIY projects that stimulate multiple senses simultaneously. These activities provide chances for sensory exploration, problem-solving, and skill development, all while fostering a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Massage and Bodywork: Therapeutic touch techniques such as massage therapy, acupressure, or reflexology can help you relax, relieve muscle tension, and enhance your overall sense of comfort and well-being. Receiving touch-based therapies can activate the body's natural relaxation response and heighten sensory awareness.
Engaging in outdoor recreational activities, like hiking, biking, or swimming, provides an opportunity to experience a wide range of sensory stimuli, including beautiful landscapes, fresh air, sunlight, and physical activity. These activities provide chances for sensory exploration, physical movement, and connection with the environment.
By integrating sensory-rich experiences into everyday life, individuals who are experiencing anhedonia can activate their senses, elicit positive emotions, and improve their overall well-being. Exploring various sensory activities and discovering the ones that align best with personal preferences and needs is crucial.
Aromatherapy has been associated with mood enhancement and stress reduction, thanks to certain scents and essential oils. For instance, lavender is often utilised for its soothing properties, while scents like lemon or orange can help create a sense of energy and positivity. Aromatherapy includes diffusing essential oils, using scented candles, or applying diluted oils to the skin.
Music Therapy: Music possesses the ability to elicit emotions, memories, and physical sensations. Engaging in activities like listening to music, singing, playing instruments, or dancing can stimulate the auditory system and evoke emotional responses. Music therapy interventions, led by a skilled therapist, can be customised to suit personal preferences and therapeutic objectives.
Art and Creativity: Participating in artistic activities like painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting provides an opportunity for self-expression, unleashing creativity, and exploring the senses. Working with art materials can provide a satisfying and enjoyable experience, as it engages our senses and allows us to express ourselves visually and emotionally.
Engage the mind and body with sensory-rich experiences like cooking, gardening, or DIY projects that stimulate multiple senses simultaneously. These activities provide chances for sensory exploration, problem-solving, and skill development, all while fostering a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Massage and Bodywork: Therapeutic touch techniques such as massage therapy, acupressure, or reflexology can help you relax, relieve muscle tension, and enhance your overall sense of comfort and well-being. Receiving touch-based therapies can activate the body's natural relaxation response and heighten sensory awareness.
Engaging in outdoor recreational activities, like hiking, biking, or swimming, provides an opportunity to experience a wide range of sensory stimuli, including beautiful landscapes, fresh air, sunlight, and physical activity. These activities provide chances for sensory exploration, physical movement, and connection with the environment.
By integrating sensory-rich experiences into everyday life, individuals who are experiencing anhedonia can activate their senses, elicit positive emotions, and improve their overall well-being. Exploring various sensory activities and discovering the ones that align best with personal preferences and needs is crucial.
i have found that that partaking in immersive and creative activities can effectively mitigate feelings of apathy. I usually select films that I know would arouse strong feelings and provide immersive experiences that can arouse the senses.
Tree House Recovery. (n.d.).
References
Colman, F. (2014). Spectators. Columbia University Press eBooks, [online] pp.71–94. doi:https://doi.org/10.7312/columbia/9780231169738.003.0004
Cooper, J.A., Arulpragasam, A.R. and Treadway, M.T. (2018). Anhedonia in depression: biological mechanisms and computational models. Current opinion in behavioral sciences, [online] 22, pp.128–135. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2018.01.024.
Cooper, J.A., Arulpragasam, A.R. and Treadway, M.T. (2018). Anhedonia in depression: biological mechanisms and computational models. Current opinion in behavioral sciences, [online] 22, pp.128–135. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2018.01.024.
Cutting, J.E. (2016). Narrative theory and the dynamics of popular movies. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, [online] 23(6), pp.1713–1743. doi:https://doi.org/10.3758/s13423-016-1051-4.
Malone, T. and Jackman, C. (2016). Spectatorship as Embodied Practice. Palgrave Macmillan UK eBooks, pp.39–49. doi:https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-59475-4_4.
Mayne, J. (2002). Cinema and Spectatorship. Routledge.
O’Connor, R. (2017). ‘the brain in control…under control…’: Toward a cognitive approach to the spectatorship of Not I. Postgraduate English: A Journal and Forum for Postgraduates in English, [online] (34). Available at: https://postgradenglishjournal.awh.durham.ac.uk/ojs/index.php/pgenglish/article/view/193 [Accessed 31 Jul. 2024].
Smith, M. (1995). Film Spectatorship and the Institution of Fiction. The Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism, 53(2), p.113. doi:https://doi.org/10.2307/431540.
Smith, M.U. (2022). Engaging Characters. Oxford University Press eBooks, pp.73–109. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780198871071.003.0004
Treadway, M. T., & Zald, D. H. (2011). Reconsidering anhedonia in depression: lessons from translational neuroscience. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 35(3), 537-555.
Tree House Recovery. (n.d.). Treating Anhedonia. [online] Available at: https://treehouserecovery.com/treating-anhedonia/ [Accessed 31 Jul. 2024].
Vorderer, P. and Christoph Klimmt (2021). The Oxford Handbook of Entertainment Theory. Oxford University Press.
www.proquest.com. (n.d.). Imagining a More Engaged Spectator: Imagination as Active Participation in Performance - ProQuest. [online] Available at: https://www.proquest.com/openview/2963eda2380f62397f82c5207d066689/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y [Accessed 31 Jul. 2024].