Cinematic devices

The movie Nomadland directed by Chloé Zhao uses a variety of cinematic devices to better tell Fern’s story and to show the readers the realities of life on the road. The devices are used subtly, to give the movie a natural, sometimes almost documentary-like feeling. This is further enhanced by the fact that very few of the people are actually actors, as most are nomads playing fictionalized versions of themselves.

The use of camera angles and movements has various purposes. Wide shots of landscapes highlight the idea of the freedom of traveling and living a nomadic lifestyle. Close-ups help the audience further empathize with the characters, as they can see their emotions better. Shots that are from Fern’s point of view show how she sees the world.

The use of lighting is minimal. Most lighting is natural, as this strengthens the minimalistic approach used in the filming and directing of the movie. The lack of any enhanced use of lighting allows the reader to focus strictly on the events.

The movie uses non-diegetic sounds only briefly. Music that can only be heard outside the events of the movie is used only in the scenes when Fern is traveling, and when time is shown to pass quickly. Diegetic sounds predominate, adding to the overall realistic feel of the story.

You can read a more in-depth analysis of the cinematic devices in the following pages.