Storyboard Imitation: The Rules from Fight Club

    The scene I chose for Blog 3 and this was the ‘rules’ scene from Fight Club. This is my favorite scene from the movie. The director utilizes the 180 degree rule, the rule of thirds, and the 30 rule during this scene. The 180 degree rule states that all camera positions must stay within a 180 degree arc. The baseline of the arc is determined by the central “line of action.” This scene creates a central line of action by showing a large group facing Brad Pitts character. the baseline of the arc is straight through Brad and splitting the crowd. The camera stays on the right of Brad the entire scene. The rule of thirds states that important elements of the image should fall on the intersections of horizontal and vertical thirds. The director utilizes this not by using it but by not using it. Most of the important actions and images were not placed on any of the thirds but in the middle of the shots. What did lie on the thirds were lights and other things in the background to give the sense that everyone in the room is anxious, nervous, and all over the place. The 30 rule states that in order to avoid a jump cut the camera has to be moved at least 30 degrees or the shot needs to change 30%. Each time the camera switches between Brad and the crowd it is moved at least 30 degrees and the 30% rule was even followed during some shots of the mens actions while Brad is talking. The director has obvious knowledge of these three rules and applies them when necessary. The 180 degree rule is followed so the viewers can keep track of where everyone is and the 30 rules are followed to avoid jump cuts. The director broke the rule of thirds to keep your point of interest moving around the room.