Introduction
The different physical attributes of depth, width, and height are alluded to as three dimensions. The natural universe, as well as all that is found inside it, is three-dimensional. Although several explicit photos, such as movies and pictures, are recorded graphically as 2-dimensional towards the cognitive system, none can appear physically without all three dimensions (Zettl, 2015).
As a result, all things that seem to exist structurally are made up of atoms, which, in addition to being imperceptible to us, also have all three spatial dimensions. Human vision can perceive three-dimensional space, widely recognized as depth perception (Zettl, 2015). In addition, layered space creates depth in 2-dimensional design; this same method of arranging one item behind the other is known as layering. Through overlapping shapes, humans efficiently produce depth. As discussed in this article, overlapping planes have been used in movies to provide viewers with vibrant and interactive sensory images.
Discussion
The Movie “The Matrix” Directed by The Wachowski Brothers
Overlapping planes were utilized to construct the legendary gun episode in the film Matrix. This approach, also recognized as “rapid fire,” involves concurrently photographing a shot from distinct viewpoints with fast cameras and video editing the images to give the appearance of time freezing (StudioBinder, 2020). The film producers could alter space and time by creating overlapping planes, enabling the audience to experience the acts from all viewpoints in slow motion.
In addition, hundreds of static cameras were placed within the set, and everyone captured a single photograph at a time to accomplish the goal. Subsequently, the images were amalgamated via computer-generated imagery to yield the outcome. Consequently, the result was remarkable and groundbreaking, evoking action film aesthetics during the initial years of the 21st century.
Movie “Inception” by Director Christopher Nolan
Inception’s zero-gravity entrance hall combat scene is among the most famous moments that exhibit how to utilize overlapping planes. The cast members are heading down a hotel hallway that has been inclined and flipped, exacerbating gravity to change and giving the impression that they are moving on ceilings and walls (Hellerman, 2019).
Furthermore, the camera spins and twists as they fight off assailants, giving the impression that the surroundings tilt around them. As a result, the event uses action sequences, like a spinning set, and software-produced depictions to accomplish the smooth fusion of scenes (StudioBinder, 2020). The use of overlapping planes enhances the cinematic experience and emphasizes the characters’ struggle to remain true to themselves even though they traverse systemic issues in their dreams.
Movie “Interstellar” by Director Christopher Nolan
In the film “Interstellar,” director Christopher Nolan used overlapping planes to give the impression of space and time deviation, affirming the movie’s topics of unforeseen events and relativity. Placing many spatial planes or temporal connections within a single frame suggests complexity and disorientation (The Three-Dimensional Field: Depth and Volume, 2017). Nolan accomplished such an effect flawlessly, combining multiple frames utilizing sound editing, camera angles, and computer-generated imagery (Hellerman, 2019).
For example, the overlapping planes of the stars, swirling clouds, and the spaceship in the scene where the spacecraft travels through a wormhole provide an impression of depth and a notion that enthralls the audience in the movie (StudioBinder, 2020). Incorporating overlapping planes improves the scientific theories of the film, its aesthetic value, and psychological resonance. Lastly, it is a brilliant application of the process to express complicated thoughts interactively and conveniently.
Conclusion
In summary, overlapping planes create depth and volume in motion pictures such as films and portraits. Creators combine various aspects and fabricate focus and perspective to produce interactive, vibrant, memorable effects that attract the audience’s attention to the picture or episode. Examples like “The Matrix,” “Inception,” and “Interstellar” show the flexibility and efficiency of overlapping planes in producing an impression of dimensionality and space. The use of overlapping planes improves the visual effect of an episode or picture, making it more interactive and enjoyable for the audience.
References
Hellerman, J. (2019). 13 Film lighting techniques every filmmaker should know. No Film School. Web.
StudioBinder. (2020). 50+ types of camera shots & angles. Web.
The three-dimensional field: Depth and Volume (Chapter 9). (2017). pp. 161-186
Zettl, H. (2015). Television Production Handbook, 12th ed. Boston Cengage Learning.