Reflection Paper 3(Dogthooth Reflection Paper).edited
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Florida International University *
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Arts Humanities
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Nov 24, 2024
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docx
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Reflection Assignment 3
1
Reflection Paper 3:
Yorgos Lanthimos Dogtooth
May 30
th
2023
Florida International University
Reflection Assignment 3
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Abstract
The reflection paper will explore the role of acting and dramatization in the film "Dogtooth" by
Yorgos Lanthimos. The paper will look into concepts presented by (Giannetti, 2018) and specific
scene analysis in order to understand the style of acting that has been employed in the film.
Furthermore, the symbolic use of nature as an analogue and make-up application will also be
analyzed. The paper aims to offer a critical analysis of these key elements and highlight their
significance in improving the overall cinematic experience.
Reflection Assignment 3
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Dogtooth is a very provocative and thought-provoking movie that utilizes a unique acting
style that creates a disconnecting and unsettling mood. As described by (Giannetti, 2018), an
individual can identify the use of “heightened realism in the movie. The acting style utilizes
controlled and restrained performance in which the actor displays a lack of emotion and a robotic
demeanor. Furthermore, one scene that shows this style is the dinner table sequence, where the
family takes part in a strange conversation and exchanges it with deadpan delivery. Through this,
the actors' lack of emotional expression improves the disturbing nature of the movie, which in
turn creates an unnerving effect on the viewers.
In terms of exterior sets, nature in the film plays the role of a symbolic analogue that
attempts to mirror the characters’ emotional position and the overall theme of confinement and
isolation. For instance, the daughter takes part in activities that are outside the boundaries of the
secluded building and the surrounding forests. The untamed nature and dense state of the forest
depict the unknown yearning for freedom while contrasting it with the artificial and uncontrolled
nature of the family home. Through this use of nature, the movie succeeds in showing the
characters' longing for freedom and their struggle against the various constraints that they have
been subjected to them.
Regarding the use of make-up in the film. Dogtooth utilizes a minimalistic approach that
improves the film's disturbing atmosphere, and it shows the detachment from reality that is
predominant in the movie. The actors' appearances are intentionally subdued with the application
of minimal make-up in order to maintain and show a lifeless aesthetic. The choice reflects the
movie's overall theme of control and repression, which emphasizes the characters' lack of
individuality and submission to an oppressive regime. By avoiding the use of excessive make-up
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Reflection Assignment 3
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and maintaining a natural appearance, the film shows the restrained and detached performances
of the actors.
Conclusion
In summary, Dogtooth uses acting and dramatization techniques in a bid to create an
immersive and disturbing cinematic experience. The movie uses the style of acting called
"heightened realism," fused with a deliberate lack of emotion and a robotic demeanor.
Furthermore, nature is used symbolically as an analogue that represents the characters’ yearning
for freedom and comparing it with their constrained environment. Lastly, the minimalistic
approach of make-up application that has been used reinforces the theme of oppression and
control. Through the use of artistic choices, the film provides a challenging and thought-
provoking investigation of human behaviors and societal norms.
Reflection Assignment 3
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References
Giannetti, L. D. (2018). Understanding Movies. Pearson.
IMDb. (n.d.). Dogtooth (2009) - IMDb. Retrieved from
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1379182/