Narration in the Fiction Film : Book Review

"Narration in the Fiction Film" by David Bordwell is a must-read for both film scholars and enthusiasts alike. In this insightful and comprehensive exploration of narrative techniques in fiction films, Bordwell, a highly respected film scholar and critic, offers a thorough analysis and classification of various narrative strategies, accompanied by a wide range of examples.

From the very beginning, Bordwell establishes a solid foundation by discussing the fundamental components of film narration. He unpacks the role of the narrator, explores the intricate relationship between the narrator and the narrative, and examines the different levels of narration. Despite the complexity of these concepts, Bordwell's writing style is clear and accessible, making it easy for even beginners in film theory to grasp.

What sets Bordwell's work apart is his ability to connect different narrative techniques and shed light on how they contribute to the overall cinematic experience. He delves into the use of voice-over narration, the incorporation of flashbacks, the exploration of multiple narrators, and other devices, providing valuable insights into their impact on the viewer.

Throughout the book, Bordwell also takes readers on a journey through the historical development of narrative techniques in cinema. He traces their origins back to literary storytelling traditions and examines how they have evolved over time. By exploring various film movements and genres, he demonstrates how different filmmakers have employed narrative techniques to achieve their artistic and storytelling goals.

In conclusion, "Narration in the Fiction Film" is an essential read for anyone interested in the art of storytelling in cinema. Bordwell's extensive research, combined with his engaging and lucid writing style, make this book a valuable resource for understanding and analyzing film narratives. Whether you are a film scholar seeking a comprehensive framework or an enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the storytelling in cinema, this book is a must-have addition to your library.

What are readers saying?

David Bordwell's book "Narration in the Fiction Film" has received a range of reviews, providing diverse perspectives on his work. Overall, the book has been well-received for its comprehensive analysis of narrative techniques in film.

Readers appreciate Bordwell's expertise and the extensive research that went into the book. His exploration of narrative strategies is seen as impressive and insightful. Many reviewers note that the book serves as a solid foundation for understanding the complex nature of narrative in cinema, making it a valuable resource for students and film enthusiasts.

The book's structure is also praised by reviewers. Bordwell organizes the content systematically, allowing readers to follow the discussion and grasp the concepts easily. This organization aids in comparing different narrative techniques and understanding their impact on storytelling.

Despite the positive reception, a few reviewers mention that the book can be dense and academic in nature. Some readers find the writing style and terminology challenging to navigate, requiring a significant commitment and prior knowledge of film theory. However, others see this as a strength, catering to a more scholarly audience.

Additionally, some reviewers express a desire for more practical examples and case studies to complement the theoretical discussions. While Bordwell provides numerous film references, readers feel that the inclusion of specific examples would enhance the book's applicability and make the content more engaging.

FictionFilmNarration FilmAnalysis NarrativeTechniques