Sunday, 4 December 2016

Background research- The Portrait of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

For this part of my research, i decided to discuss about Wilde's philosophical novel, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. this novel is the heart of my inspiration for our trailer as the portrait appears cursed and that it explores how the valuable possessions become a root of a curse. 

CONTEXT:

The novel's synopsis focuses on a handsome, narcissistic man who serves as a subject for the full length portrait painted in oil by Basil Hallward, an artist infatuated and fascinated by Dorian's beauty to which he asserts that beauty is his motivation as a painter. For our trailer, the protagonist will be shocked by the sight and presence of the drawing as he wants to be rid of the mental torture , conveying a contrast between these two texts.

SYMBOLISM:



  • Portrait- the portrait symbolises some form of living allegory; a visual interpretation of Dorian's soul. The significance of the portrait inspires me by the idea that it is like a human being, an organic form that is infused with the nostalgia of lost youth, and the grim reality of human life. This links back to our trailer's synopsis as it symbol is the antagonist.


PERSONAL-  this book cover even represents the duplicitous nature of Dorian Gray; I can see a contrast between the subject and his unkempt portrait. It looks ominous as the main character is standing next to the painting, almost becoming one body, one mind

SYMBOLISM- The portrait itself connotes the terrible effects of vanity; it is a sin, a curse that will soon consume the character as the novel progresses. it looks almost realistic to the fact that it will take over Dorian's soul or others just by simply gazing its 'truthful' appearance.

Gold- suggests extravagance and wealth , or perhaps hubris (excessive pride)

Red- Death/ Destruction/ Passion/ Love (vanity) 







How it can link to my trailer:

  • The idea of an image or drawing that draws the character into his mental state creates the symbolism
  •    From the fate of the protagonist, I can apply this to the foreshadowing of my trailer as i plan to include shots where it implies his anguished state (his face and form withers away, leaving the painting in its untouched form)  
  • I can concoct ideas by producing a range of sketches.
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