Often, most action sequences in movies are overlooked due to the sheer stigma that rests behind a generic action movie; driven by entertainment value, placing spectacle above all else. They are often guilty of providing no advancement or meaning to the overarching plot, or characters. Critically speaking, an action scene is at its worst when it not only detracts from the narrative, but is framed and delivered clumsily, making for a scene that is neither fun nor meaningful.
Ideally, the sequence should fit within the confines of the story. The audience should be coaxed to evoke emotion towards the events or battle the characters are engaged in. Personality should be leaping across the screen, in showcasing motivations or desires.
Navigating space and the location is also critical in designing a fluid action sequence. The actors must utilise the space in a way that makes the action appear plausible and exciting. Wider angles here help to establish scale, and can help avoid overuse of heavy editing to mask the poor construction of the scene.
What I want to look at is (surprise, surprise!) another Edgar Wright scene, specifically the bathroom sequence in The World’s End. It opens with a traditional line-up of both sides, and the actors ooze personality by providing fantastic reactions at being grabbed by the ‘robots’. A beautifully executed long take follows, appropriately moving the action along clearly, but also showcasing the claustrophobic environment that the actors have to navigate around. Whip pans are inserted to switch angles quickly without disturbing the flow of the action, and are great tools to hide the traditional jump cut.
Note the soundtrack as well and how it synchronises well with the action. It elevates pace, and is seen to gradually rise in intensity as the action reaches a crescendo. This is the way to do action, or at least, a sequence that can be admired for its complexity and visual significance.
References:
The World’s End. (2013) Directed by Edgar Wright. [Film]. United Kingdom/United States, Universal Pictures.
