DATED 

The Silence of the Lambs (1991). This film focuses on the themes of government sponsored brainwashing in the creation of serial killers; makng the film controversial and radicalised. It is for this reason that Silence of the Lambs may be considered one of the most subversive, thrilling and thematically synergistic movies ever made.

 

The idea of a hidden narrative contained in an artwork is apparent throughout the film; originally inspired by artists such as Michelangelo. The symbolism of 'getting butterflies' is warped in to something that creates suspense and adds a sinister effect on a usualy saying used in society. The metamorphosis from grub into flying creature sees the moth or butterfly as a traditional symbol of transformation. Indeed there are many references to butterflies and moths, death and transformation especially when it comes to Buffalo Bill. Clarice discovers a chrysalis in the throat of Bill’s third victim Frederica Bimmel. In Bimmel’s mother’s bedroom, just before she learns the truth about Bill, Clarice is surrounded by butterfly wallpaper. Inside Bill’s house, we see where he’s been breeding the Death’s Head moth and other, prettier butterflies. Once he tucks his private parts away and spreads his colourful dressing-gown wings Bill takes on the symbolic form of a butterfly. Moments after Clarice kills Bill, we see a wind chime with painted pictures of butterflies spinning slowly. This idea of symbolism of a transformation creates enigma and tension; foreshadowing events before they happen. This is a good technique to hook the audience and intrigue them; whilst also adding context to the narrative. 

 

The use of high angled shots and close-ups of the woman character portrays her as vulnerable and sexualised; two of the main preferred readins of a female character in Thriller genres. However, as the film progresses; she is seen to gain more power, with camera obscura being use to portray her as having a good and evil side (sing binary opposites). We have used a similar idea in our piece; as our protagonist is represented as vulnerable, but also with a darker side.