The Visual Aesthetics of Baz Luhrmann’s Red Curtain Cinema

Master’s Thesis from the year 2014 in the subject Communications - Movies and Television, grade: 1,3, University of Mannheim, language: English, abstract: By using music, dancing, colorful settings and costumes to accompany the dramatic story, Baz Luhrmann’s films stimulate all senses and intensify the movie experience to a degree that makes viewers aware of the artificiality and artistry involved. So-called Red Curtain films keep the audience engaged at all times by using theatrical rather than naturalistic cinema devices. This approach of storytelling is a conscious choice that can be attributed to Luhrmann’s comprehensive experience in arts and media. Although he is best known for his visually and symbolically charged films, Luhrmann has also worked in theater and opera - both behind and on stage. In addition, he has produced music videos and worked in journalism and fashion. Thus, it is not surprising that all these experiences influence his current work. Luhrmann’s films are characterized by a theatric style that combines dancing and singing with rapid cuts and editing, giving the impression that one is participating in the live action rather than just sitting passively in the auditorium.