Monday, November 29, 2010

Richard Jones in Babel

When searching for a screen shot from Brad Pitt's performance as Richard Jones in Babel, the options almost entirely consisted of shots that focused on Brad Pitt's face, rather than his body, as was easy to find in pre-Angelina films. Babel marks the first film Brad appears in after Mr. and Mrs. Smith. The fact that almost all of the screen shots are close-ups of his face reflect Brad Pitt's changing star image. Rather than being known and admired for his body, he strives to be respected for his acting ability. This screen shot reflects that desire as Brad Pitt's expression is very serious. By looking off to the side with a sullen look on his face, Brad Pitt adds to a somber feel in the screen shot. Viewers, rather than being distracted by his body as in screen shots from previous films focus on the emotion expressed. The overall feel of this screen shot also reflects his somber attitude as the background is a neutral color and he is clothed in gray. Even the gray in his hair lends a blah feel. While in previous screen shots, Brad Pitt was seen as adventurous, young and wild, Brad Pitt's beard in this screen shot instead makes him seem haggard and exhausted. Brad Pitt is maturing.

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