From Watching to Reading: Understanding a Film as a Text Through Semiotics

Shifting from watching a film to ldquo;readingrdquo; it is a paradigm shift in how we engage with the medium. While watching involves passive consumption, reading a film invites a deeper, more critical analysis. This paper explores the concept of viewing a film as a ldquo;textrdquo; and how it aligns with semiotics, the study of signs and symbols and how they create meaning. We will analyze the merits of both film and book formats and provide a detailed case study of Martin Scorsese's ldquo;The Irishman.rdquo;

1. Film as a Text

When we view a film as a ldquo;text,rdquo; it means recognizing it as a structured system of signs. Every element—dialogue, cinematography, editing, mise-en-scène—acts as a signifier carrying layers of meaning. Unlike simple visual enjoyment, reading a film requires decoding these layers to uncover the ideologies, narratives, and cultural codes embedded within.

2. Semiotic Perspective

From a semiotic standpoint, films operate on two levels of meaning: denotation and connotation. Denotation refers to the literal meaning of the sign, while connotation delves into the underlying associations and emotions. For instance, in ldquo;The Irishman,rdquo; Frank Sheeran’s journey through time and his narrative style create multiple layers of meaning that require careful analysis.

2.1 Denotation

Denotation involves the straightforward, literal interpretation of the signs presented in the film. In ldquo;The Irishman,rdquo; for example, we can observe the literal depiction of Frank Sheeran’s experiences and the factual elements of his interactions with Jimmy Hoffa and other individuals.

2.2 Connotation

Connotation refers to the hidden, emotional, or cultural associations that the signs might carry. In ldquo;The Irishman,rdquo; the choice of actors playing the same roles over decades and the director’s storytelling technique contribute to the film's connotations and thematic depth.

3. Comparing Film and Book

The experience of watching a film and reading the book were designed to complement each other, but they often diverge. Book readers have their own interpretations based on their imagination, while filmmakers interpret the story through visual and auditory elements. While films are excellent for visual storytelling, books can convey far more information and depth, which can be challenging to capture on screen.

3.1 Advantages of the Film

Films can provide immersive and immediate visual experiences that enhance the storytelling. However, the ability to convey nuances and complex narratives through dialogue and non-verbal cues can be limited. For instance, the scenes in ldquo;The Irishmanrdquo; that capture the characters’ emotions and interactions through facial expressions and body language are powerful but can be difficult to recreate in writing.

3.2 Advantages of the Book

Books have the advantage of allowing readers to delve into the characters’ minds and thoughts in greater detail. This can provide a more intimate and personal connection with the narrative. In ldquo;The Irishman,rdquo; reading the book could offer a more complete backstory and internal monologues, which enhance the understanding of the characters’ motivations and actions.

3.3 Complementary Viewpoints

Ultimately, the most complete and rounded understanding of a story is achieved by combining both mediums. Watching the film and reading the book together provides a fuller and more nuanced perspective. This dual experience can help bridge the gaps left by each medium, offering a more comprehensive and layered understanding of the narrative.

4. Case Study: Martin Scorsese's ldquo;The Irishmanrdquo;

Martin Scorsese's ldquo;The Irishmanrdquo; (2019) is a prime example of a film that successfully integrates both mediums. The film’s standpoint is unique in its use of a first-person narrative through the character of Frank Sheeran played by Robert De Niro. This narrative style has been compared to reading a novel, where the audience is taken through Frank’s life story in a deeply personal and intimate way.

4.1 First-Person Narration

The film’s personal touch through the first-person narration creates a more relatable and authentic experience for the audience. Unlike in his previous work ldquo;Goodfellas,rdquo; here the protagonist is already in his senior years and reflecting on his life. This perspective adds a layer of introspection that enhances the emotional and thematic depth of the film.

4.2 Consistency of Actors

Scorsese’s decision to maintain the same actors playing the same roles over the course of almost 50 years is a particularly innovative approach. This technique not only reinforces the story’s continuity but also contributes to the film’s overall realism. By aging the actors naturally, rather than through makeup, Scorsese ensures a more truthful portrayal of aging and its impact on the characters.

4.3 Cultural and Historical Context

The film delves into the complexities of American history and the impact of organized crime on society. The portrayal of Frank Sheeran’s journey through time and the significance of events such as Jimmy Hoffa’s disappearance are explored in depth. This layered narrative, coupled with the first-person perspective, creates a rich tapestry that invites both passive enjoyment and deeper analysis.

5. Conclusion

Shifting from watching a film to reading it is not just about personal preference but about engaging more deeply with the medium. By viewing films as texts and employing a semiotic lens, we can uncover layers of meaning that can enrich our understanding of the narrative. ldquo;The Irishmanrdquo; exemplifies this approach, combining powerful storytelling with an intricate narrative structure that invites both passive enjoyment and critical analysis.

To achieve the most complete and nuanced understanding of a story, it is beneficial to engage with both the film and the book, each offering unique insights and perspectives.