Slap 

directed by Nick Rowland 

Slap follows a teenage boxer who is searching  for self definition and answers surrounding his identity. Immediately the spectator connects with the protagonist with the early use of handheld shaky camera, creating a sense of intimacy aligning us with Connor and his emotions. 

 

Connor is often central in most shots, and rarely he is not the focus. The two shots above present Connor in very contrasting ways through his body language, proving his comfort in each situations and varying identities. in the first, he appears almost backed into a corner as one is in boxing with his head hung. whereas in a dress and wearing make up he walks with confidence looking up and past the camera. 

There is a significant shot of Connor in the reflection of a shattered mirror emphasising that he does not like his appearance as a man, depicting his inner turmoil. The spectator often views Connor as he sees himself in a mirror, sometimes breaking the fourth wall, which connects us and gives an insight in to his character that no one else sees. Personally, I think this type of shot is very effective as not only does it form this wider picture of a characters mental state but also more simply makes shots more exciting. So I would definitely like to have a go at creating something similar for my short film. 

The shattered mirror also plays a role in emphasising the way in which appearances and stereotypes are broken throughout the film.  the notion of boxing is emblematic of traditional portrayals of masculinity focusing heavily on strength and muscular power, which contradicts dressing as a woman and wearing makeup. However, it is made  clear to the audience that these can co-exist  despite what many are conditioned to believe. 

 

The montage above is particularly notable, we see Connor at his eye line as he practices boxing front of a boxing poster, in his dress and hair up. These contrasts in this shot alone reflect those throughout the film. The dark lighting displays that this side of him is hidden to his family and friends.

The film is left unresolved and slightly ambiguous, ending with a violent scene of the protagonist battering his boxing opponent, evident of his internal rage and confusion. therefore, unsatisfyingly the spectator is left unsure whether he has overcome his fear of hiding his expression or not.