Moments from 'The Piano'

A long shot to set the scene. The figure is placed to the left to draw your eye around the space. His bent frame gives him age. The gold glow lends a seriousness and soulfulness to the image.

The shadow of the piano perhaps represents the shadow of his life. Some of which we are going to learn about in the film.

A medium, head and shoulders shot. The character is placed in the centre of the frame.

The shape of the piano is hinted in the left hand corner but the main focus is the man.

He is looking down intent on what he is doing.

A close up of his ancient, gnarled fingers playing the piano.

Then, a close up view of his fiingers changes. The hand is younger looking and we clearly see the wedding ring on his left hand.

Close up of the man and his wife. The transparency of her face against his shoulder explains he's reminiscing about her.

The look of surprise and wonderment on his face.

That moment when he feels as if she was still there.

Chin juts forward, the mouth is drawn back and the eyes are wide.

The bravery required to do this job.

 

A two shot to set the scene

 

Intensely concerned at the moment of the man's death.

Grim faced, looking at the dying man, clasping his hand.

 

Looking up, thankful for his present.

The style of clothes tells us this his is him as a young boy. Notice the drab colours of the clothes.

Just having a great time.

There's the change. From him reminiscing about himself as a young boy to the 'now' of his grandson using his toy.

The trainers, socks and trousers are much brighter colours.

The grandson plays with grandfather. So many memories, but the playing of the piano connects generations.

That look of love and respect across the generations.

 

Our class exploring some of the expressions in the film.

Full of thought at the piano.
Head down absorbed in his memories.

The man and his ghostly wife seated at the piano.

Adoring grandson.

No doubt in his contemplation.

Head down, leaning inwards towards the piano.

Full of thought at the piano.

An adoring look from his wife.

Clutching the dyng man's hand. Fully focussed on his suffering.

All the sympathy he can give to the dying man.

No mistaking the delight in playing with the hobby horse.

The grandfather and the grandson.

Very clear difference in their expression.

Very definite reassurance to the dying man.

Good use of the hands to emphasise the connection.

 

WHAT MIGHT THE CHARACTERS BE THINKING OR SAYING TO EACH OTHER?