Exhaustion*

Classification in categories

• Battle and nature

 

The interplay of the acting with the camera and the shot composition stages an image of solidarity that develops first between Ramirez and Purckett and is later generalized. The dynamic pattern is the turnaround from a contrasting to a connecting staging of the images. The scene is positioned between exhaustion and a fight after the battle and before the horrifying discovery of another member of the group dead.

First contrasting bodies are staged in two ways: on the one hand Ramirez’ sick, but militarily disciplined body and the healthy, but civilian body of Purckett and on the other hand between the two men and the Lieutenant as their commanding officer. Facial expressions, gestures and speech convey the first contrast; framing and editing the second (>EMU 1).

Only in relation to this contrasting character scheme is the process of the gradual visibility of camaraderie and solidarity between Ramirez and Purckett staged. The process takes place during the return to camp through relationships of distance, supported by facial expressions, gestures and Purckett's almost unending talk. Connections on the level of shot composition and the rhythm of the camera movements portray this image of solidarity as something that transcends the two individual bodies and overcomes hierarchies and contrasts (>EMU 2).    HJC

Expressive movement units

01 02 

Materials about the scene

Position of the scene in the film