Psychology technique · used in 1 film

Hollow Authority Exposed

Setting up a showdown where the supposedly strong ruler breaks down in front of his men. His fear shows how thin his claim to power really is.

Examples

Where you can see it

  1. Outlaw King (2018) poster

    Outlaw King

    David Mackenzie · 2018

    Edward II stays behind to fight Bruce in single combat, vomits in fear and cries for help. Bruce spares him. The English king looks frightened and the Scottish rebel looks calm, so the power in the scene flips.

    Where to see it: The duel with Edward II. After the battle, the English king faces Bruce alone and cannot go through with it.

Questions

Quick answers

What is hollow authority exposed in film?
Setting up a showdown where the supposedly strong ruler breaks down in front of his men. His fear shows how thin his claim to power really is.
Which films use hollow authority exposed?
Outlaw King (2018).
What kind of technique is hollow authority exposed?
It is a psychology technique. Related psychology techniques include Psychological Doubling, Unreliable Reality, Body Horror.

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