Directing Fight Cinematography: Correct vs Incorrect Approaches

Are you a fan of action films? The choreography of a fight scene can be impressive, but if your audience can’t follow the action, it’s all for nothing. Take the Jason Bourne franchise, for example. While some fans praise the series for its gritty realism, others argue that the shaky cam and tight close-ups make it impossible to appreciate the choreography. So, how can you avoid making the same mistakes?

First, consider framing the action. In The Bourne Supremacy, the two fighters are dressed in all black, making it difficult to distinguish them against the bright venetian blinds. The angles are all wrong, and we’re constantly looking at one person’s back instead of seeing the techniques play out. Contrast this with the wider shots and longer takes of Jackie Chan’s The Legend of Drunken Master, where the choreography is beautifully showcased.

Of course, new directors want to stand out and use the camera in new ways. While Paul Greengrass’s attempt to create a more frantic, kinetic feeling in the Bourne franchise ultimately hindered the experience, Gareth Evans’s approach in The Raid: Redemption enhanced it. The camera is far more active, often moving with a fall or kick, yet we never lose track of the action.

So, how can you find your own unique style of shooting fight choreography? Experiment with angles and camera movement, and pay attention to framing, lighting, and costuming. Whether you’re seeking a classic approach or something gritty and frantic, your audience should always be able to follow the action.