Screenwriting 101: Mastering the Art of Story Season 1 Episode 8 The Tragic Sublime: The Godfather

The Tragic Sublime: The Godfather is the 8th episode in Season 1 of Screenwriting 101: Mastering the Art of Story. The episode focuses on analyzing the iconic film, The Godfather, and how it portrays tragedy in a sublime manner.

The episode starts with a brief history of tragedy in literature and how Aristotle defined tragedy as a form of storytelling that evokes emotions of fear and pity in the audience. The host emphasizes how tragedy is not just about a sad ending but involves a deep emotional connection between the audience and the characters.

Moving on to The Godfather, the episode examines how the film uses various techniques to create a sense of tragedy in the audience - from the opening shot of the wedding to the final scene of Michael Corleone sitting alone, the host breaks down the key scenes that evoke this emotional response.

One of the key elements of The Godfather's tragedy is the portrayal of the Corleone family as tragic heroes. The host explains how the film creates sympathy for the Corleones despite their criminal activities and how their downfall is a result of their own tragic flaws. The lines between good and evil become blurred, and the audience is left questioning their own morality.

The episode also touches upon the cinematography of The Godfather and how it creates an atmosphere of tragedy and sublimity. Symbolism, lighting, and camera angles are used to evoke emotions in the audience and build tension. The host also highlights the use of silence and music in the film to create a sense of unease and tragedy.

Throughout the episode, the host also provides useful tips on how to incorporate tragedy into screenwriting. The importance of creating empathy for the characters and their struggles, the use of symbolism, and the power of silence and music are all discussed in detail.

The Tragic Sublime: The Godfather is a must-watch for any aspiring screenwriter or movie enthusiast. The episode provides a thorough analysis of The Godfather's use of tragedy and how it creates a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences even today.