MovieChat Forums > The Whale (2022) Discussion > Aspect Ratio

Aspect Ratio

posted 9 months ago by Alocirp (680)
2 replies | jump to latest

I was initially surprised, and even a bit put off by the 1:33 ratio Aronofsky decided on to shoot this film. Personally, unless a modern movie is trying to replicate the feel of an old-fashioned picture (The Lighthouse comes to mind), I really prefer the widescreen aesthetic.

I suppose, though, the "boxed-in" look present here does add to the claustrophobic feel of the film. Charlie's oversized face and body dominate much of the frame in many shots, highlighting the fact that this huge man is basically trapped in a tiny apartment. Not sure if that's actually what Aronofsky was going for, but it would make sense from a creative standpoint.

Anyone have other ideas or opinions on the unconventional aspect ratio used in The Whale?

[–] prayformojo (101) 9 months ago

You have it right, it's about creating a boxed-in feeling for the viewer. It's been done before by many other filmmakers when they want to convey a tight, claustrophobic space.

Since the entire film is essentially shot in one room, it's one of the most appropriate uses of the technique I've ever encountered, and it fits the film beautifully.

[–] Alocirp (680) 9 months ago

Thanks for the info. You're correct; shooting this in the 1:33 ratio made sense here, given the style, setting, and general story of the film.

As I mentioned earlier, my initial impression of the boxed-in aesthetic wasn't great, but as the film progressed, it did grow on me somewhat.