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Formal Analysis of Raging Bull Essay

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Formal Analysis of Raging Bull Martin Scorsese’s film “Raging Bull” is considered by many to be one of the greatest “sports” films of all time. The plot focuses on the professional and personal life of boxer Jake LaMotta. In the opening sequence, the film uses narrative, mise en scene, cinematography, editing, and sound to provide a framework for the rest of the picture. These elements also help to establish the film’s themes of nostalgia, isolation, loneliness, and suffering. In addition to setting up the film’s themes, these elements also help to create two distinct personas of the main character Jake LaMotta. The narrative form exhibited in the opening sequence seems simple at first glance, but actually conveys a multitude of …show more content…

Occasionally, the scene will be interrupted by the sudden appearance of flashbulbs penetrating the smoky air. This not only lends a feeling of authenticity for the setting and time period, it also reflects the sudden outbursts of violence prevalent throughout the rest of the film. LaMotta himself is shrouded in his robe and shadows, making his face impossible to see, however his gloved fists are easily seen as he gracefully throws jabs and stalks the left side of the ring. This introduces his fists as a motif that is repeated throughout the film. For example, LaMotta sees his hands as being too small, later he abuses them against a cell wall, and most obviously are a symbol of his livelihood. His fists are a tool, which he uses to punish others, as well as himself. The scene cuts to a sign, in the middle of the screen, that reads “An Evening with Jake LaMotta” and the audience hears the voice of LaMotta for the first time, which will lead to the next scene. The use of the word “evening” signals the transition that is about to take place. The audience has seen LaMotta early in his career and now are about to witness him in his career’s twilight. This short scene ends when a man crosses in front of the sign, creating a swiping effect. Now, the third scene begins. The viewer is presented a medium shot of an older, overweight, and sloppy LaMotta. Juxtaposing the composition of the opening scene where LaMotta is seen on the left

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