Foreshadowing in Film

Have I seen this before….

What is Foreshadowing?

The use of hints or clues to suggest future action.

Authors DO tell us what to expect in the future of the story….subtly

Why is This Important?

Authors plant clues….

They expect you to pick up on them….

Important parts of a film shouldn't be a shock!

What is the Purpose of Foreshadowing?

To create suspense!

The author wants the viewer to KNOW that things will happen but wants to retain control over the HOW and WHEN things will happen.

The Challenge of Finding Foreshadowing Oftentimes, foreshadowing does not appear obvious to a reader until after the fact.

But….if you can view actively, you will have a better chance of noticing these intentional clues about future action!

How do I find foreshadowing?

Look for the common cues in film….

Camera lingers on Something Close-ups Random items

These are called….

Dangling Cause

Something you see / hear early in the film.

But….takes a while for it to return to importance

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Indy HATES snakes!

In vault – snakes everywhere!

Back to the Future

Marty puts his Walkman down on passenger’s seat of time machine Camera lingers on that shot Walkman, radiation suit, and video camera are framed Marty uses these to convince George to ask Loraine out!

Summary

Foreshadowing is a common literary (and film literary) device. Hints ARE given.

Often a challenge to find!

We call these dangling causes!