Good Will Hunting critique

Good Will Hunting is a psychological drama narrative directed by Gus Van Sant and released in 1997, starring Matt Damon as Will, Ben Affleck as Chuckie, Robin Williams as Sean, Minnie Driver as Skylar, and Stellan Skarsgard as Professor Lambeau. Good Will Hunting tells the story of a young genius that hasn't achieved his full potential. Will is discovered by a college professor as he effortlessly solves one of the hardest math problems to ever exist. The professor then does everything to work with him, but he finds out that his temper is not that easy to handle. The film's main message is that one can only fully achieve their potential when in balance with their feelings and emotions.

Good Will Hunting is a good example of a three-act structure. The first act introduces the story's setting and characters, which in this case takes place when Will is cleaning the hallway and sees the math problem and solves it. Act one resolves when professor Lambeau takes Will out of prison in return for him collaborating with him.


 The second act starts when professor Lambeau is looking for therapists for Will but fails every time; Until he finds Sean, that is willing to take Will. The second act ends when will and Skyler have a big argument in her dormitory. 



The third act rises the climax and initiates shortly after the argument when Will is in professor Lambeau's office and burns his math paper after a discussion with him. The resolution of the third act takes place towards the end when Will talks to his friends and goes to therapy. Sean was finally able to dismantle Will's emotional shield.


Cinematographic techniques/ mise en scene

Lighting- In this example it is possible to see the use of the light coming from the window representing an opportunity for Will to put his talent to use.

props- The image below is a picture of Sean's office. It's elements such as the rug, books, chairs, table, and pillows are examples of props used to send the impression that Sean is very intelligent and trustworthy  

costume- The characters' costume were also important to build impressions of them. In this image their clothing subconsciously tells that professor Lambeau is more sophisticated while Sean is simpler and more welcoming. 

make up- Make up was used to give the actors a dirty look from working in construction


Framing/ composition

Some cinematography techniques used in Good Will Hunting were the positioning of the camera, such as in the scene below. The camera position shows that the professor didn't have as much authority over Will as he had before because he is the one inferior to him now.


Overall, I really enjoyed the film and would definitely suggest it.

 



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