The lack of direct mode of address from the characters in this particular clip shows that we are looking at it from a voyeuristic position. The start of the clip with Neo and Agent Smith facing each other and clenching their fists is like a typical scene from a Spaghetti Western film. Shot-reverse-shots are used to show the relationship between the two characters. The clenching of the fists is an action code as it signifies that an action scene will take place within the clip.
There is a long fight sequence between the two characters in which there is a wide range of camera techniques used. The sequence is shown through long shots, medium shots as the fight in mid air and swivel shots are used to follow the characters. There is also use of 360 degrees shot, which is quite unusual for a normal film, however the use of special effects and unusual camera techniques relates to the genre of the film which is a Science Fiction film. Close-up shots are also used within the sequence to show the expressions on the characters’ faces. Point of view shots are also used to create impact or according to Fiske’s theory is used a technique to sew the audience into the narrative. To move along with the fast paced fight sequence, time is manipulated by the use of fast motion. The fast fighting gestures of the two characters are synchronized.
During the fight sequence Neo is injured in the ‘matrix’ so the scene cuts to the real world to show that he is injured in the real world as well, for this particular scene close up shots are used to show the blood coming out from Neo’s mouth and to show the worried expressions on the other characters’ faces. Aerial shots are also used to show the action sequence from a different position. A low angled point of view shot is used when Neo is on the tracks looking up at Agent Smith. This shows that Agent Smith is in a powerful and superior position and that he has the full advantage in the action scene. Diegetic sound is used within the clip in the form of gunshots to create realism in the story place. A non-diegetic soundtrack is used for a number of purposes. The soundtrack used is a motif and also creates mood and atmosphere as well as creating suspense and tension; it is a well-known track that is identifiable to the film.
The central climax of the clip and film is when Neo seems to be dead; this is an enigma code as you wonder whether he is the ‘One’? However this is resolved when he stands up with a heroic and triumphant non-diegetic soundtrack in the background. This is followed by a sequence of slow motion gestures from Neo however it is contrasted by the fast paced movements from the Agents.
Special effects are also used to symbolise the genre of the film as well as add excitement and creativity. The camera tends to pan and track across the characters and the action sequences. The agents are juxtaposed against the green coding; that is a key code throughout the film and this is shown through the point of view of Neo, this helps to show us that the secret of the code has been discovered and that Neo is ‘The One’. In this scene, a low angled shot looks up at Neo signifying that he is superior and very powerful compared to the agents. Another fight sequence takes place in which the fast tempo helps to catalyse the sequence and the movements of the characters.
The editing used in this particular clip is mainly cutting from one scene to another to show the action sequence is taking place in a normal time sequence. The geographical location for this clip is a real life setting as it is a real underground station. The characters in the film are special agents and heroes so the social setting for the film is not easily identifiable as this is a science fiction film. However the characters bring with them a superficial heroic setting that affects the outcome of the film.
