David Fincher is a master of his craft, immersing audiences in his films like no other working director. With the recent release of his Netflix series Mindhunter, Fincher continues to engage viewers in new and exciting ways. The popular YouTube channel Nerdwriter1 explores just how immersive and thoughtful Fincher’s films are, and why they command our attention in ways other directors cannot emulate.
Fincher’s “trick” or “style” is simple yet wildly effective: he captures audiences’ eyelines and brings their attention to the screen by moving the camera in relation to the characters. The camera operator matches the exact velocity and direction of the character, taking the audience step-by-step alongside the actor. This immersive method lets viewers experience exactly what the character experiences, making them feel what they feel, see what they see, and hear what they hear. In many ways, viewers become the character, locked into their behavior and adding to the tension of the narrative.
Fincher’s precision demands rehearsal after rehearsal, ensuring that when a character behaves and moves a certain way, the audience feels that way too. If a character is scared or angry, the camera movement reflects those emotions, bringing viewers into the fold and making them just as much a part of the story as the characters themselves.
The end product of Fincher’s work is usually a masterclass in style, form, and groundbreaking storytelling. Mindhunter is no exception, and it’s worth your time to check out this unique and inventive story that only Fincher could have made. For more information on perfecting the tracking shot and other camera movements, check out our past coverage.
