Bricolage versus engineering
This section is related to the second part of Feuer's chapter entitled "Bricolage vs Engineering". This section will take you approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Activity 3.1
Before you listen to the podcast, answer the question below.
Now, listen to this podcast (1:30 mins) and complete the questions below.
Download mp3 (audio file)
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2
Take notes of the literal explanation given in the podcast about the concept of 'bricolage'.
The term 'bricolage' means 'tinkering' - it conveys the idea of making use of anything at hand- a kind of makeshift approach, making use of what's there.
3
What does 'bricolage' mean in the context of the Hollywood film musicals?
It refers to the fact that performers make use of nearby props and anything at hand to create song and dance routines in their immediate environment.
Activity 3.2
Now look at a film clip from Singin' in the Rain. As you are watching, think about the following questions. Annotate your thoughts in the boxes below.
Watch the clip: Singin' in the Rain (3:13 mins) (opens in a new window)
4
How is bricolage at work in this number of Singin' in the Rain and how does it mask the engineered effects and the design of the number?
Marks of bricolage here are the use of the various objects in the room, the book, the curtain, the table, the chairs. The fact that all these props are common objects in an office room gives the impression that the action just emerges as it happens masking the engineered choreography.
5
To what extent are you convinced about the spontaneity of this sequence?
It is not important whether you are convinced or not about the spontaneity of this sequence. What is important here is how you can express your opinions about it. For instance, you could point out that the coordinated tap dance scene on the table that moves on to the floor reveals an engineered choreography that reduces the sense of spontaneity.