What Is Realism, Really?

Reading Summary

In this reading, realism is described as a broad, interchangeable term used to give viewers a better understanding of how realistic media really is. Realism can be considered unorganized and even sloppy as mediamakers try to show the truth about the real world. In order for realism to be effective, audiences have to be able to distinguish what is real and not real as well as what is natural and unnatural in film and television productions. As stated in the reading, some forms of realism depend on a technique known as apparent spontaneity, which describes an assumption that reality is ultimately unplanned. The three types of apparent spontaneity are visual, verbal, and narrative. Visual spontaneity is the “use of loosely framed compositions” that are shot to look not perfect (17). The composition can be filmed to be off balanced with “sloppy” camera work and even have people or objects moving freely in the background. This type of spontaneity is mainly used to have a documentary look, and have the camera reacting to the action rather than anticipating it. Verbal spontaneity is when a staged dialogue is used between characters and clear, well-crafted lines are established. This technique allows the audience to see a more “natural” connection among characters having a “real conversation (19). Narrative spontaneity deals “with the construction of the story itself” and how a film will only show audiences significant parts (20). While this technique is very relevant, it is also important for films to include “real life” content. Though films will never truly be realistic, it is important for filmmakers to emphasize dramatic realism, which is “based on the assumption that the world is a consistent place” (31). It is true that audience acknowledge that movies and television shows are without a doubt fake, but it is important for an audience to relate to them somehow. Therefore, realism ultimately depends on the audience’s knowledge and attention as well as the media’s techniques to develop these feelings.

Outside Example

As I was reading the different types of spontaneity, I immediately thought of my favorite Netflix sitcom, The Office. The hilarious show is based in an actual office setting with real people who work for a company called Dunder Mifflin. Episodes include workers dealing with daily tasks that are then seen to become significant, humorous events by the end of each episode. The show is mainly based around ‘real’ characters and how they act around a camera that is there documenting office’s obnoxious but funny activities. The Office is a great example of realism techniques being used to show real people in a fake documentary film.

Reading Connection

The Office specifically uses realism techniques like visual and verbal spontaneity to highlight the shows ‘realistic’ but fake documentary about individuals in a workplace setting. These techniques are clearly shown in episodes, especially when chaotic scenes are shot, and the audience can see the camera fall to the ground resulting in sloppy camera footage which is an example of visual spontaneity. The audience can also see verbal spontaneity occur when dialogue is exchanged between characters, Dwight Schrute and Jim Halpert, who are desk neighbors and are seen as ‘frenemies’ on the show. The dialogue seems very realistic between these characters, making the audience aware that they are indeed ‘real’ people who have ordinary jobs and are forced to work under a boss who is irrationally obnoxious. I think The Office is a great example of realism because of the amount of truth that is displayed throughout every episode, showing the realism of a typical office setting and how ‘real’ people are affected by it. The show allows people to obtain knowledge about the show while media techniques come into play to make the show seem more realistic to audience members.