Adaptation is an extremely unique screenplay. It goes against alot of principles that other screenplays structure themselves on. My favorite part of the screenplay was the very beginning when we are introduced to Kaufman. We are automatically inside his head- able to hear his thoughts and examine his feelings. Throughout the screenplay, we continue to hear voiceovers from both him and Susan Orlean. I feel that in such a complex screenplay as this one, voiceovers are almost necessary in helping us understand the dynamics of the characters.
In A Boy's Life, the story was very chronological and easier to follow. We see the story from a third person point of view; however we are being directed by the actions of Elliot and his interaction with E.T. The authorial voice is very simple- no voiceovers, no flashbacks, and one basic storyline. We are aware of Elliot's intentions and goals without him necessarily voicing them to the audience directly.
In The Apartment, I feel that the voice is almost omniscient. We are introduced to Bud as the main character and the story centrally revolves around him; however we are aware of the actions that take place with the other characters when Bud is not in a scene or necessarily involved.
Discussion Questions
1. What type of authorial voice do you feel is most effective and why?
2. According to Weston, "The key line can be one thing a character says that betrays his central preoccupation or secret." Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
-Laurie Devaney
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2 comments:
I think that Mathison's voice was most effective because that's the story that resonates with me the most.
I do agree, but I think the line could not only reveal in the spoken word itself but with the body language that comes with it.
No one tops Kaufman in author's voice. It is un-tamable beast. Mathison's requires least amount of effort.
Wilder's the mid-range.
Kaufman requires a dedication, but is richest. A script with low author voice, no matter how compelling the subtext of the spartan dialogue, is not as much fun to read than one with a powerful voice.
-William Corlett
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