Impressionism

ThirdMan

What does 'impressionistic' mean when describing a film? I've done a Google search but I can't find what I'm looking for. I've heard it used to describe some of Robert Altman's films. I think it's when a film is more concerned with tone and atmosphere over plot and characterisation. I've seen both The Long Goodbye and McCabe & Mrs. Miller this week and they both felt like that. Is that correct or am I way off?

e_e

Yeah I'd assumed that it was a film that was more about a visual expression of ideas/emotions rather than an A to B narrative and realism.

I'd call The Tree of Life a good definition of an impressionistic film, as well as docs like Samsara, Sans Soleil and Koyaanisqatsi.

ThirdMan

e_e wrote: »

Yeah I'd assumed that it was a film that was more about a visual expression of ideas/emotions rather than an A to B narrative and realism.

I'd call The Tree of Life a good definition of an impressionistic film, as well as docs like Samsara, Sans Soleil and Koyaanisqatsi.

Great. I've seen Samsara and The Tree of Life as well. I'm starting to get a handle on the idea then.

Films used to be so easy. 10 years ago I'd have thought impressionism was Eddie Murphy in a fat suit.

Sad Professor

Impressionism is probably best understand in comparison to realism and expressionism.

Realism - Paul Greengrass.
Expressionism - Tim Burton, especially Batman Returns and Edward Scissorhands.
Impressionism - Michael Mann.

kumate_champ07

I think its wasted in film, best kept to photos/paintings

ThirdMan

kumate_champ07 wrote: »

I think its wasted in film, best kept to photos/paintings

I'm not too concerned about whether it's wasted or not. I just wanted to know what it was.