Film Style

As I’ve stated elsewhere, Film Style is easiest to identify when it can be measured in gallons. While Howard Hawks absolutely possessed a distinct and well-defined style, it's a style that isn’t really apparent until you’ve watched a handful of his films in quick succession. Similarly, there will never be a TikTok trend about aping the style of Budd Boetticher. But they are Stylists none the less.

The styles that really grab the attention of budding filmmakers and cinephiles are often the ones that clearly depict a world different from our own. Worlds where the colors are un-real and the camera calls attention to itself. This is how one comes to realize what a director’s job entails. Suddenly you are aware of the fact that every single film consists of countless choices. And not just the ostentatious ones. Realism and Naturalism are choices too.

A fun and concise way to familiarize your child with Film Style is through music videos and ads. Many of today’s stylists, like David Fincher, got their start in music videos. And often a stylish director, like Sofia Coppola, will be sought out by a brand to do a campaign promoting their new line or product. Such clips are pure style. There is no need for narrative, just vibes. Maybe program a mini-festival of some of your favorites from when you were younger!

These clips can also serve as your kiddo’s introduction to the style of someone who hasn’t yet made a kid-friendly film. Your child probably isn’t ready for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (and I don't think anyone counts The Green Hornet) but I bet they’ll have a blast watching many of Michel Gondry’s music videos. Or do the reverse and show them some of the early music videos of Where the Wild Things Are director, Spike Jonze. Maybe they’ll even discover a new favorite band or song this way!