Critically analyse the way in which one particular signifying system is used in a film of your choice,

In this essay, I will pay close attention to the use of the camera in Eraserhead, (David Lynch, 1976), and look at the effect such camera work has on the viewer, in conjunction with other signifying systems. This film, marking Lynch’s proper debut as a director, is rife with exciting touches that, though the film has little dialogue, keeps the viewer entertained throughout. If each shot could be individually captured in a frame, they could each display an artistic quality.

The opening of this film shows Henry (John Nance) in a mid-shot, horizontal across the screen; first at the bottom, with half of his face concealed. Centre screen is an asteroid, over which Henry’s head will float in subsequent scenes, with both being visible at once. The decision to show such surreal scenes from the outset only serves as a catalyst for audience curiosity, and indeed, the film in its entirety is a cohesive blend of disturbing imagery, challenging metaphors and conceptual surrealism. ...