Opera functioning as narrative in films : Apocalypse Now - Godfather, part III - Philadelphia

Abstract

This thesis examines the opera-film-music relationship from various points of view. With all the technical advances in the film industry, music for the films is still composed in the late nineteenth century, romantic style. We will try to offer some answers related to this subject. In the three films selected for analysis, music and visuals exit in contrapuntal relationship. Music becomes the third dimension next to words. Francis Ford Coppola is one of the most knowledgeable composers for using music in films. His first film in analysis is Apocalypse Now, where music is utilized as part of the drama. In Godfather, Part III music moves and develops together with the plot. The third film in anaysis is Philadelphia, directed by Jonathan Demme. The music is utilized to intensify emotions and the drama of the film. In all three films, music becomes the narrative of the visuals.