Synopsis
What is 12 Years a Slave about?
Plot Outline
In the years before the Civil War, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the South. Subjected to the cruelty of one malevolent owner (Michael Fassbender), he also finds unexpected kindness from another, as he struggles continually to survive and maintain some of his dignity. Then in the 12th year of the disheartening ordeal, a chance meeting with an abolitionist from Canada changes Solomon's life forever.
Key Facts
- Director: Steve McQueen
- Screenplay by: John Ridley Doe
- Adapted from: "12 Years a Slave" by Solomon Northup
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about 12 Years a Slave
A high angle shot positions the camera (and therefore the audience) literally and figuratively above the subject.
A high angle shot positions the camera (and therefore the audience) literally and figuratively above the subject.
A high angle shot can convey a range of meanings depending on the context of the scene. If a character is feeling inferior or vulnerable, or if they are beaming with happiness, a high angle shot can help accentuate those characteristics and emotions.
Since the camera informs the audience's perspective, and the camera is positioned above the subject, the overall effect tends to put the subject at a disadvantage, or to make them seem less powerful.
On the other hand, if a character is looking up at something with awe and wonder, we still might consider them to be smaller or less powerful but in a more positive connotation.
Since the camera informs the audience's perspective, and the camera is positioned above the subject, the overall effect tends to put the subject at a disadvantage, or to make them seem less powerful.
On the other hand, if a character is looking up at something with awe and wonder, we still might consider them to be smaller or less powerful but in a more positive connotation.
Scene Excerpt
A notable scene from the script
In the scene below, the Wachowskis included many purposeful high angle shots. Click the shot list below, to see the full scene broken down, and ask yourself what each high angle shot communicates to a viewer.
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