"Nothing is more important than the Human Spirit"
As my first inspiration for films with an impact, I decided to watch The Impossible by Juan Antonio Bayona. This dramatic thriller was based upon the true horrifying event of the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004. The basic plot includes a family of 5 on a winter holiday in Thailand, when the beautiful holiday dream quickly becomes a nightmare as the colossal wave travelling up to 800km per hour wiped out the resort and everything in it's path. Once separated, both parents quickly realise that it is now a race for survival, and in order to find each other and reunite the family they must act quickly and efficiently.
The action and suspense begins right within the first few minutes of the film. As soon as the tsunami hits, one instantly becomes tense and eager. With brief scenes of gore and horror, combined with tension and apprehension, one is completely fixated and eager to continue. For me, the most important dramatic feature of the entire film was the deafening silences- with bellowing screams and underwater shots completely inaudible were extremely effective.
Although budget will be extremely limited in our own film, there are some distinct techniques that could be taken from The Impossible. These include the true relationship between the characters, because when watching the film one becomes involved in the characters and empathetic towards their emotions. This is particularly due to the fundamental issue of correct actor selection, but also down to the relationship with each other as one becomes relaxed and trusting because the relationship appears so real and true. Furthermore, the plot twists and turns are important too to ensure that the audience does not become bored. This includes the ending too- which in fact is a very predictable, positive ending within The Impossible which although positive 'cheesy' endings almost disregarded by our team worked very well and left me emotional and fulfilled.
Good story analysis and critique
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