【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. disparage /dɪˈspær ɪdʒ/ (v.) – to criticize something and to lower its value
Example: He disparaged other directors while promoting his film.
2. shoot /ʃut/ (v.) – to take a video using camera for a TV show or movie
Example: The director will shoot the first scene in a restaurant.
3. selling point /sɛlɪŋ pɔɪnt/ (n.) – most attractive characteristic or feature of a product
Example: The large storage capacity is the main selling point of the camera.
4. budding /ˈbʌdɪŋ/ (adj.) – showing high potential despite being new on doing something
Example: Many budding actors can be found in independent films.
5. edge /ɛdʒ/ (n.) – an advantage over someone or something, usually in competition
Example: The latest model of the camera has a minor edge in quality over the previous one.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
American director Quentin Tarantino [KWEN-tn tuh-ran-TI-noh] disparaged digital filmmaking as the current trend in the movie industry.
In a Cannes Film Festival press conference last May, Tarantino expressed that cinema is now declining because of digital cameras. As a popular filmmaker who shoots movies on traditional 35-millimeter film cameras, Tarantino believes that the original cinema is gone.
Apparently, cost-efficiency and consistent video quality have been the main selling points of digital filmmaking. Releasing a digital film to a cinema theater is only worth $150. On the other hand, one movie film roll and its delivery to a theater can cost $1,500.
Shooting movies on 35-millimeter film provides excellent quality. However, most studios convert the final copy in digital format for cheap distribution to cinemas.
Alain Roulleau [roo-LOH], owner of the oldest cinema in Paris that was established in 1948, gave a quick comparison between digital and traditional movies. Roulleau cited that a 35 millimeter’s display is perfect at first but gets dusty two weeks after. In digital movies, the quality remains clear even after six months of stay in a theater.
According to Digital Film Academy founder Patrick DiRenna [di-REN-nuh], digital camera lets budding filmmakers show their talent through low-budget productions. He admitted that the 35-millimeter cameras may have a slight edge in image quality but he believes digital cameras will soon improve.
Additionally, DiRenna said Tarantino and other traditional filmmakers will eventually adapt to digital filmography in the future.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· If you were a filmmaker, would you prefer digital film over traditional film? Why or why not?
· Do you agree with Tarantino that cinema is declining because of digital filmmaking? Why or why not?
Discussion B
· In your opinion, how important are the equipment in a film production?
· Do you think a high budget results in an excellent film? Please explain.