PLAY MISTY FOR ME: Style & Technique: 8. Aerial Photography and Landscape Shots

[Matt]

The aerial photography was done by Jack Green. This is the first time Green would work on an Eastwood film. Not long after Misty, Green would become camera operator at Malpaso and was eventually promoted to cinematographer, in which capacity he would earn an Academy Award nomination for his work in Unforgiven. What do you think of Green's work in this film?

Bruce Surtees was cinematographer, and seemed to capture a lot of the beauty of Carmel. Some critics felt there was too much attention paid to the landscapes and aerial shots; while others hailed the film for exactly those qualities. What is your opinion? Did watching the film give you an appreciation for the beauty of Carmel? How does this add to the enjoyment of the film?

[Christopher]

I like the aerial and landscape shots. It does show the beauty of Carmel. It's not like these shots distract us from the movie's storyline, so I don't see a problem in it. If anything, it makes the movie look really great.

[Doug]

The shots create a consistent visual style, and contrasts well with the suffocating situation that Dave finds himself in.  The various shots of the sea and coastal area also ties in with Poe's "Annabel Lee" poem Evelyn recites to Dave near the end.  I really like the look of the movie.  It amazes me that the style is criticized.

[KC]

Evelyn only recited two lines (slightly altered) from the poem, but since it's one of the most familiar American poems ever penned, it's likely it resonated with sea-associations for most spectators.

[Doug]

I meant from which Evelyn recites, of course.  My mistake. Yes, her "version" would shatter the rhyme that Poe worked to create.   But when Dave looks up the poem most viewers, even if it's been decades since they've seen the poem, would probably catch the line: In a kingdom by the sea.  Of course, in a way it doesn't matter, because it is what one might term "sub-text."

[DirtyDuffy45]

Look this movie was made before I was even born and all I can say is damn! Clint knew what he was doin making his directorial debut huh?  Amazing the film is great one I watch a lot! I give it 10!

[philo]

I love the opening titles , assured is the word . You could have easily sped things up concerned with the pacing . No it was fine and what great locations . I also love that Green font .



Philo .

[mgk]

 Thanks, everyone! This thread is now locked.  Please post any additional thoughts you have on this topic in the General Discussion forum.