The Revenant Film Analysis

Stunning scenes of landscapes, trees, and clouds fill the scenes of The Revenant. Snow fills the open-void of the wilderness and sunlight bleeds through the spaces between the tall, dark trees. The camera mainly focuses on Hugh Glass as he attempts to take his revenge upon John Fitzgerald, who murdered Hugh’s son. The camera pans smoothly during calm shots of vistas and nature, while the camera rapidly shakes during the intense attacks of the Native Americans. Rivers flow smoothly, and in some shots, Hugh’s fearful, beaten face fills the frame as he struggles to evade the threats of Native Americans. The contrasting nature of the scenes in The Revenant is effective in immersing the viewers in the environment, portraying a message of conservation, and developing a captivating, simplistic storyline. Industrial innovations have removed the ability for humans to experience the magnificence of the Earth. Smog blocks the sun, and the seasons are void of snowfall. The Revenant emphasizes the importance of preservation by focusing on the beauty of the illuminated snow, the elegance of the free-flowing clouds, and the calmness of the open landscapes. In one
In addition, the cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki purposely fills the frame with the characters’ faces so the viewers could have a clear sense of the characters’ moods and emotions. The calming scenes of snow and sunlight attract the viewers, while the intense, dragging action scenes surround the viewers. In one scene, as Hugh Glass’s son was being murdered and dragged off by John Fitzgerald, the camera frame is filled with Hugh’s bloody, messy face and the sound of his groans fills the air. The viewers are instantly pulled in and feel the urgency to free Hugh from the ropes that held him down to wood logs. Scenes of distant trees and thinning snow fill the moments of Hugh’s journey while entertaining the