“La Jetée” is a 1962 French science fiction film by Chris Marker. Known for its unique structure, the film is composed almost entirely of still photographs. It tells the story of a post-apocalyptic experiment in time travel, focusing on a man haunted by a childhood memory. This memory becomes the key to his future and humanity’s survival.
1. Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The protagonist’s recurring dream of the airport The airport symbolizes a point of departure and arrival, reflecting the themes of time travel and change. The underground camp Represents the human subconscious, where memories and fears reside.
2. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The blurred faces of people in the protagonist’s memories Symbolizes the fading nature of memory and the indistinctness of past events. The garden scene Represents a fleeting moment of peace and beauty amidst the chaos of the protagonist’s life.
3. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Scenes of pre-war and post-war Paris Highlights the stark contrast between the serenity of the past and the devastation of the future. The protagonist’s peaceful dreams versus his harsh reality Emphasizes the tension between what once was and what is now.
4. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The protagonist believes he can change the past to save the future It’s ironic because his attempts are predestined, and he cannot escape his fate. The serene image of the woman juxtaposed with the grim reality of the underground world Highlights the irony of finding beauty in a dystopian setting .
5. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The recurring image of the man’s death at the airport Foreshadows the protagonist’s ultimate fate. The scientist’s initial experiment description Hints at the dark consequences of tampering with time.
6. Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example The entire concept of time travel to change the future Serves as an allegory for the human desire to rectify past mistakes and control destiny. The protagonist’s journey Reflects the broader human struggle against an inescapable fate.
7. Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example The protagonist’s memories of the woman at the pier Provide context and depth to his emotional state and motivations. Scenes of the pre-war world Offer a stark contrast to the present dystopian reality, enhancing the sense of loss.
8. Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The vivid descriptions of the post-apocalyptic world Create a stark and haunting visual representation of the future. The serene garden scenes Use lush, vibrant imagery to contrast with the bleakness of the underground world.
9. Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example The mention of Orpheus and Eurydice Alludes to the myth of a journey to the underworld and the impossibility of changing fate. References to historical events and locations Ground the story in a relatable context , enhancing its realism and impact.
10. Personification
Movie Scene Device Example The description of time as a force that “wounds all heels” Gives time human-like qualities, emphasizing its relentless and damaging nature. The underground camp as a “living entity” Personifies the setting , making it an active participant in the story’s unfolding drama .
Character Studies
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The protagonist’s childhood memory of the pier symbolizes his fate and the cyclical nature of time. Irony The protagonist’s illusion of freedom is ironic, highlighting his ultimate lack of control over his destiny.
Literary Device Explanation Imagery The vivid depiction of the woman’s features emphasizes her significance in the protagonist’s life. Pathos The protagonist’s longing for the woman evokes empathy and deep emotional connection.
Literary Device Explanation Flashback The recurring flashbacks to the protagonist’s childhood establish his emotional anchor and the film’s central mystery . Stream of Consciousness The protagonist’s inner thoughts and mental journey are portrayed through a stream of consciousness narrative , revealing his deep inner conflict .
Character Dynamics
Character Relationship Explanation Protagonist and the WomanTheir relationship drives the narrative , with the woman representing a tether to the past and a hope for the future. Protagonist and the ScientistThe manipulative relationship between the protagonist and the scientist highlights themes of control, power, and the ethical implications of time travel.
Device Explanation Symbolism The pier symbolizes the inescapable nature of fate and the cyclical pattern of time. Imagery Stark visual imagery of the post-apocalyptic world underscores themes of destruction and despair.
Device Explanation Irony The protagonist’s perceived freedom contrasts sharply with his ultimate lack of control, emphasizing the theme of determinism. Flashback Flashbacks to the protagonist’s childhood highlight the importance of memory and the persistence of the past.
Device Explanation Allegory The depiction of post-apocalyptic Paris serves as an allegory for the consequences of war and human self-destruction. Pathos The emotional journey of the protagonist creates a deep sense of empathy, underscoring the human cost of scientific experimentation.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Still Photography The use of still images emphasizes the symbolic weight of each moment. Imagery Black-and-White Film The stark contrasts in black-and-white film enhance the vivid imagery .
Literary Device Technique Explanation Flashback Editing The seamless transition between past and present through editing strengthens the impact of flashbacks. Stream of Consciousness Narration The continuous voice-over narration creates a stream of consciousness effect, immersing the audience in the protagonist’s mind.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Pathos Close-up Shots Close-up shots of the protagonist and the woman heighten the emotional intensity. Allegory Set Design The detailed and bleak set design of post-apocalyptic Paris enhances the allegorical meaning of the setting .
Scene Selection
Scene 1: The Opening Sequence
Link: Opening Sequence Breakdown: The opening sequence sets the tone for the entire film, using stark imagery and powerful narration to introduce the post-apocalyptic world and the protagonist’s haunting memory. This scene establishes the key themes of memory, time, and fate.
Scene 2: The Experiment
Link: Experiment Scene Breakdown: This scene showcases the protagonist undergoing the time travel experiment. The use of still photography and close-ups emphasizes the emotional and physical toll of the experiment, highlighting themes of sacrifice and human endurance.
Scene 3: The Climax at the Pier
Interactive Quiz
What literary device is primarily used to establish the protagonist’s recurring memory of the pier?
Which technique enhances the stream of consciousness effect in the film?
a) Color grading
b) Close-up shots
c) Voice-over narration
d) Background music
The use of black-and-white film primarily enhances which literary device?
What is the relationship between the protagonist and the woman symbolic of?
a) Hope and memory
b) Power and control
c) Freedom and fate
d) Love and loss
The depiction of post-apocalyptic Paris serves as an allegory for what theme ?
a) The beauty of nature
b) The consequences of war
c) The power of technology
d) The mystery of time
