Cinematography technique · used in 1 film

Reaction Shot Comedy

Getting the laugh from one character's face as they react to what another is doing. The joke lands on the reaction, which the camera catches precisely.

Examples

Where you can see it

  1. The Intouchables (2011) poster

    The Intouchables

    Olivier Nakache, Eric Toledano · 2011

    François Cluzet's Philippe cannot move, so his face becomes the film's main tool for comedy. The camera stays on him as he reacts to Driss's outrageous behavior. Cluzet's tiny, precise expressions, like the held-back laugh and the appalled blink, set the film's rhythm.

    Where to see it: Driss's first encounter with the modern art Philippe collects. You watch Philippe's face as Driss gives his opinion.

Questions

Quick answers

What is reaction shot comedy in film?
Getting the laugh from one character's face as they react to what another is doing. The joke lands on the reaction, which the camera catches precisely.
Which films use reaction shot comedy?
The Intouchables (2011).
What kind of technique is reaction shot comedy?
It is a cinematography technique. Related cinematography techniques include Real Locations as Character, Handheld Cinema Vérité, Practical In-Camera Effects.

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