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LINGUISTIC AND EXTRA-LINGUISTIC FEATURES OF CINEMA
DISCOURSE
Ollomurodov Arjunbek Orifjonovich
Asia International University
English chair, the Department of History and philology
mail: ollomurodovarjunbekorifjonovich@oxu.uz
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800957
Abstract:
Cinematography is one of the most influential means of mass
communication. This unique cultural phenomenon is characterised by rapid
development, global distribution and impact on the audience worldwide. This
article will investigate about linguistic and extra-linguistic features of Cinema
discourse by analyzing these factors in “Gone with the wind”.
Key words: culture, language, discourse, semiotics, dialect, dialogue, extra-
linguistic, diegetic, non-diegetic, rhetorical device, visual.
Cinema discourse goes beyond just the spoken words. It's a complex
interplay of various elements that work together to create meaning and engage
the audience. Film discourse is a vivid example of synthesis of different types of
signs in a common semantic, functional and structural sphere. The combination
of simple signs produces complex signs of the first order which, in turn, form
even more complicated signs of the second order (Mechkovskaya, 2017). Signs
of film discourse are divided into linguistic and non-linguistic. In each group,
according to Pierce’s classification, icons, indexes and symbols are distinguished.
Language means are mainly represented by signs and symbols that are either
written (captions and inscriptions that are part of the film’s reality – a poster, a
street name, a letter) and oral (voiced speech of actors, off-screen text, a song)
(Slyshkin & Efremova, 2004). Indexes and iconic signs are few in a language;
both types, however, are used in film discourse – intonation, interjections and
shifters are all examples of indexes in a natural language while onomatopoeia is
iconic (Mechkovskaya, 2017). The non-linguistic component of film discourse is
to a large extent represented by iconic and index signs which can be both visual
and audial. The audial part (natural noises, technical noise and music), as well as
episodes of documentary films inside a feature film, are index signs. The visual
part (the images of people, animals and objects that perform sequences of
movements, gestures, facial expressions) consists mainly of iconic and index
signs (Slyshkin & Efremova, 2004).
"Gone with the Wind," a cinematic masterpiece from 1939, offers a rich
tapestry of both linguistic and extra-linguistic features that contribute to its
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enduring power and captivating storytelling. In this survey, there are delved into
how these elements work together to create a truly immersive experience. There
are analyzed several linguistic and extra-linguistic features of cinema discourse
with explanations in the film:
I.
Linguistic factors:
1.
Dialogue:
a)
Content: The actual words spoken by characters reveal plot points,
relationships, and character traits. The choice of vocabulary, formality, and
slang reflects social class, education, and regional backgrounds.
b)
Delivery: How the dialogue is delivered is just as important as the
words themselves. Tone of voice, pace, and emphasis can convey sarcasm,
fear, love, or any other emotion.
c)
Dialect and accent: The way characters speak provides information
about their origin, social status, and even their personality.
The film employs a distinct Southern dialect, reflecting the time period and
geographic setting. Characters like Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler use
colloquialisms and drawl, adding authenticity and regional flavor. The dialogue
also effectively reveals character personalities and social hierarchies, with class
distinctions evident in the formality and vocabulary used.
2.
Narration:
a)
Voiceover: A disembodied voice providing context, background
information, or the inner thoughts of a character.
b)
Direct address: When a character speaks directly to the audience,
breaking the fourth wall and creating a more intimate connection.
The film uses narration sparingly, primarily at the beginning and end, to
establish context and guide the viewer. The elegant language used in the
narration contrasts with the more informal dialogue, creating a sense of
historical distance and epic scope.
3.
Written language:
a)
Inter-titles: Text on screen used to convey dialogue in silent films, or
to provide additional information in sound films, such as dates, locations, or
news headlines.
b)
Signs and symbols: Text within the scene itself, such as on
billboards, newspapers, or shop signs, which contribute to the setting and
atmosphere.
In certain scenes, characters switch between languages, such as when
Scarlett speaks French with her governess or Rhett uses slang with Belle
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Watling. This reflects the multilingual reality of the South and further highlights
the characters' social backgrounds and relationships.The dialogue is rich with
rhetorical devices like metaphors, similes, and hyperbole, which add depth and
emotional impact. For example, Scarlett's famous line, "After all, tomorrow is
another day," employs a simple yet powerful metaphor for hope and resilience.
II.
Extra-linguistic factors:
1.
Music:
a)
Underscoring: Background music that sets the mood and emotional
tone of a scene. It can create tension, suspense, joy, or sadness.
b)
Leitmotif: A recurring musical theme associated with a particular
character, place, or idea.
The iconic score of "Gone with the Wind" plays a crucial role in setting the
mood and amplifying emotions. The sweeping melodies evoke the grandeur of
the Old South, while poignant themes underscore moments of loss and
heartbreak.
2.
Sound effects:
a)
Diegetic: Sounds that originate from within the world of the film and
can be heard by the characters, such as footsteps, gunshots, or car horns.
b)
Non-diegetic: Sounds added to the film that do not originate from
the story world, such as background music or a narrator's voice.
The film uses sound effects strategically to create a realistic atmosphere
and enhance the viewer's engagement. The sounds of cannon fire, galloping
horses, and bustling crowds immerse the audience in the midst of the Civil War
and Reconstruction era.
3.
Visuals:
a)
Cinematography: Camera angles, movement, and shot composition
influence how the viewer perceives the scene and characters.
b)
Mise-en-scène: The arrangement of everything that appears in the
frame, including sets, costumes, props, and actors, which contributes to the
overall atmosphere and symbolism.
c)
Lighting: The use of light and shadow can create mood, highlight
important elements, and symbolize emotions.
The cinematography of "Gone with the Wind" is breathtaking, utilizing
panoramic shots to capture the vastness of the landscape and close-ups to reveal
the characters' emotions. The use of color, lighting, and costume design further
contributes to the visual storytelling.
4.
Acting:
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a)
Facial expressions and div language: Nonverbal cues that convey
emotions, intentions, and subtext.
b)
Gestures and movement: Physical actions that reveal personality
traits and relationships between characters.
The performances in "Gone with the Wind" are legendary, with actors like
Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable bringing their characters to life with nuance and
charisma. Their facial expressions, div language, and delivery of dialogue
convey emotions and motivations beyond what words alone can express.
The true magic of "Gone with the Wind" lies in how these linguistic and
extra-linguistic features interact and complement each other. For instance, the
Southern dialect is enhanced by the actors' drawl and expressions, while the
music underscores the emotional weight of key dialogues. The panoramic
visuals of Tara are paired with Scarlett's passionate declarations about her love
for the land, creating a powerful connection between character and setting.
In conclusion, "Gone with the Wind" masterfully utilizes both linguistic and
extra-linguistic features to create a cinematic experience that is both
aesthetically captivating and emotionally resonant. The interplay of dialogue,
music, visuals, and acting brings the story to life, immersing the audience in a
bygone era and leaving a lasting impression.
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