The Piano Context and Background. What does this scene reveal about the setting? Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)

The Piano Context and Background

What does this scene reveal about the setting?

Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)

What does this scene reveal about the setting?

Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)

Inhospitable, deserted landscape. Cliffs make it seem unwelcoming.

What production techniques does Campion use?

Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)

What production techniques does Campion use?

Landing on the beach at the beginning of the film (3.45)

Lots of long shots. The waves and beach. Sound effects of waves, wind. UsesOf washed out, pale, white colours. Natural light = a dark place.

What does this scene reveal about the context and characters?

What production techniques does Campion use?

Linking back to context:What do Ada’s clothes tell us about the Victorian era and the expectations of Victorian women?

The Piano - Main Characters

• Ada McGrath – played by Holly Hunter (protagonist)

• Alistair Stewart – played by Sam Neill

• George Baines – played by Harvey Keitel

• Flora McGrath – played by Anna Paquin

• The Piano - played by Ada

The Piano - Main Characters

• Ada McGrath –

Dress / Costume

Actions

Dialogue – important quotes

Feelings

Her strengths

Her weaknesses

DecisionsRelationships with others

The Piano - Main Characters

Alistair Stewart

Clothing / House

Actions

Dialogue – important quotes

Feelings

Hisstrengths

His weaknesses

DecisionsRelationships with others

Decision What it shows us about her character

Evidence (Quote, image, camera shot etc)

To stop talking

To come to New Zealand

To buy the piano back, knowing what it would involve

To send the key to Baines

To leave Stewart for Baines

Other decisions?

Ada’s Decision Grid

Stewart quotes

"You're small. I never thought you'd be small."

1. When does each quote occur in the film?2. Who does he say it to?3. What does it reveal about Stewart?

– It may be several things4. How does our impression of him change through the film?

"Morag, what would you think if someone were to play a kitchen table like it were a piano?"

"We're a family now. We all make sacrifices and so will you."

"Never behave like that. Never. Nowhere. You're greatly shamed. You have shamed these trunks."

"I'm not going to lose the land like this. Wait here."

"I clipped your wing, that's all."

George Baines

“She looks tired, Sir.”

1. When does each quote occur in the film?2. Who does he say it to?3. What does it reveal about Baines?

– It may be several things

“Do you know how to bargain?”

“The arrangement is making you a whore and me wretched. I want you to care for me but you can’t.”

“If you’ve come with no feeling for me then go. Go. Go. Get out! Leave!”

Character comparison table

Stewart Ada Baines

A key decision the character makes

He swaps the piano for a piece of land

She chooses Baines over Stewart

He throws the piano over the side of the waka

Comment

Objects they are associated with

Axe, surveyors’ tools

The piano Tattoos

Language / expression

Well educated, well spoken

Does not speak. Expresses herself in other ways

Speaks Maori & English. Cannot read and write

Comment

Costume Often wears formal costume (top hat, suit on the beach)

Formal dress at the beginning of the film

Wears a variety of clothing. Not formal

Comment

A Good Joke by C.F. Goldie