In the final scene from Thelma and Louise the cinematographic effects are astounding. Panning, reaction shot, and dissolve are all used in the last section of the movie clip extensively. These three cinematographic terms are perfect for this clip because of the intensity they add to the scene. Through the use of panning, reaction shot, and dissolve the actresses portray two extreme emotions of desperation and the tranquility of freedom.Desperation is seen in many different instances throughout the clip. Thelma and Louise (Susan Sarandon and Gena Davis) are finally pushed to their limit in this final scene. Thelma (Gena Davis) comes to the realization that the two women can no longer run away. As she proposes her conclusion to their ventures, the camera switches from Thelma to Louise as each speak. You never see the opposite actress as one is speaking. You cannot see their reactions until they speak themselves. This is referred to as a reaction shot (Filmland). The scene is view from over the shoulder of the actress opposite the speaker. As Thelma is proposing that the two take a plunge to their ultimate freedom, the movie watcher views this through Louise’s eyes. Those watching see Thelma’s desperation and determination in her eyes are she tells Louise of their single alternative to being caught. As soon as Louise speaks the camera quickly changes from the view of Louise to the view through Thelma’s eyes. Now, those viewing can see Louise’s reaction and surprise. This effect if very powerful and effective during this scene because you feel as you are in the movie with them (Emerson 2). It pulls the viewer into the movie.Desperation is also expressed when the two first see the helicopter coming towards them out of the Grand Canyon. The shot used to film this approach is panning. The camera follows the helicopter at a side view all the way up the canyon. This adds almost a menacing feeling to the ...
