Projects: Screenplay terms and techniques

Research point: Establishing shots and travelling shots

Burley (2008) suggests that an establishing shot, “"establishes” a location or setting, often using an exterior or back up shot to lay out the scene. It gives the entire layout of the area so people can understand the story space and have a basic idea of what is going on and where”.  This technique can be seen in many films and is often used to show the audience which city the scene is set in.  For example, showing the Statue of Liberty tells the audience that the scene takes place in New York. 

I found it very difficult to find written information relating to ‘travelling shots’. However, from what I can ascertain, a travelling shot’s purpose is not to show the audience where or when (although this would inadvertently be included), but rather shows the physical journey being made; e.g. walking to the shops or driving to the pub, etc. 

Below is a list of a number of films that contain establishing or travelling shots.  With each example I have tried to explain why I believe these shots have been used.    However, I found it quite difficult to find a picture that didn’t contain either both of these elements. 

Establishing Shot	Travelling Shot
The Shawshank Redemption Frank Darabont (1994) As Andy Defrain’s bus approaches the prison, an establishing shot of the prison is shown.  This shot not only tells the audience where Andy will be held, but also gives a ‘looming’ impression of this imposing building.  This effect only enhances the audience's empathy with the main character as he approaches his fate.	The Shawshank Redemption Frank Darabont (1994) Andy Defrain’s journey to the prison, via bus, I would consider to be a travelling shot.  It tells the audience that Andy is physically moving, in this case towards the prison.  Andy’s bus journey is rife with elements of imagery which later hint to the story.
The House Bunny Fred Wolf (2008) During the course of this film, the writer has used establishing shots of the ext. of the sorority house.  I believe this has been done as this film contains lots of short scenes and it would otherwise be easy for the audience to become ‘lost’.	The House Bunny Fred Wolf (2008) After their makeover, the girls are travelling to a party, walking down the street.  I believe there are two reasons for this shot; one is their physical journey, whilst the other refers to them ‘coming out’ into society, emerging as beautiful girls.
The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Peter Jackson (2003) Following Frodo’s dramatic scene sequence, we are taken forward in time and show a clean and clear shot of the landscape where Baggins is living.  Not only does this shot show the physical location, but also the changes that have been made to landscape which gives the impression of a calm and quiet lifestyle.	The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Peter Jackson (2003) It could be argued that the entirety of this film contains travelling shots as the majority of the scenes contain some form of movement.  However, this film is rife with short bursts of travelling scenes, often with no dialogue, which link the scenes together.