FILM SCENE ANALYSIS

"A BEAUTIFUL MIND"

Film Scene Analysis 

[ 0:00 - 2:02 ] 

This scene begins with the shot of a man entering the scene. As he is introduced to various military personnel - in what appears to be a shadowy basement of a government building - his face remains in a set expression, which is captured by the medium close ups as he greets the two men. This reflects on Dr. John Nash’s behaviour towards people and foreshadows his body language and behaviour with people throughout the entirety of the movie. The next shot is a pan shot which establishes the surrounding as well. This proves to be significant as it gives the audience an idea of the environment. There’s scientists and different men in uniforms moving around, talking and discussing things, this associates importance and status to Dr. Nash, as he’s being led through these people. 

The first time we get insight into Dr. Nash’s mind is when he’s placed in front of the screen of ‘preliminary data’ and asked to ‘review it’. The shot of Dr. Nash being led up to the screen is an orbital shot as the camera circles around him as he’s contemplating and analysing the vast array of numbers presented on the wall. The circling of the camera reflects his mental absorption and could signify his disoriented relationship with the world around him. This shot proves to be extremely significant as it gives us a great insight into Dr. Nash’s mind. As the camera’s spinning and circling around him, it establishes him as the main subject of the frame, and also depicts how he delves into his own world. There are close up shots of him that encapsulate his expressions. 

There is diegetic music that plays as the camera circulates Dr. Nash. The music is uplifting and build it's tempo as the scene progresses. The music reflects the situation presented in front of Dr. Nash ; He is presented with a problem, and as Dr. Nash solves the puzzle, the music gains momentum and creates a 'problem solving' feel. We can hear Dr. Nash's muttering as well, this proves to be important as it sets him aside from the ordinary, which is also later reflected in his character. The muttering adds depth to the scene as well, as it gives the audience insight into Nash's character and perhaps better understand his dynamics. 

Nash’s eyes dart about the board as the numbers start to glow and form patterns. The use of special effects help the audience engage and relate to Dr. Nash’s character and helps the audience see the board from his point of view. The rule of third is aptly used in the later shots, along with a slow zoom of Dr. Nash’s face. The use of dissolve montage in this sequence hints at how much time has passed, as Dr. Nash stays in one position as the background constantly changes, and it creates a powerful impression of ‘sensory overload’. The slow zoom/close up into Dr. Nash’s face displays the amount of focus he has, it also depicts his ability to spot patterns where others would only notice chaos. This point is also emphasised by Dr. Nash’s position in the room ; right in front of the board, while others wait behind in the background. This also portrays superiority, as he seems to be the only one who can solve this problem. 

Finally Dr. Nash turns from the screen with an assured look and says “I need a map”. Dr. Nash doesn’t have much dialogue in the scene, so it’s crucial for the camera shots to encapsulate his expressions, perspectives and body language to signify the essence of this scene and to make it more relatable and understandable for the audience.