The Visual Elements in Raging Bull and Rocky – A Media Movie Review

The Visual Elements in Raging Bull and Rocky – A Media Movie Review

Raging Bull (1980), directed by Martin Scorsese, and Rocky (1976), directed by John G. Avildsen, are two of the most iconic boxing films in cinema history. Though both films focus on the world of boxing, they employ vastly different visual styles and techniques to convey their themes of struggle, identity, and resilience. While Raging Bull is often celebrated for its gritty, raw realism, Rocky is known for its inspiring, classic underdog story. Both films, however, use their visual elements in powerful ways to enhance their narratives, character development, and emotional impact.

In this review, we will analyze the visual elements of both Raging Bull and Rocky, examining how cinematography, framing, lighting, and editing contribute to the storytelling and the viewer’s emotional engagement with the films. The comparison will focus on how the visual language of each film reflects its central themes, the portrayal of the protagonist, and the overall tone of the story.

1. Cinematography: Grit and Realism in Raging Bull vs. Heroism in Rocky

One of the most notable differences between Raging Bull and Rocky is their approach to cinematography. Scorsese’s Raging Bull, shot by Michael Chapman, uses tight, claustrophobic frames to capture the intense, often brutal nature of Jake LaMotta’s life. The boxing scenes in Raging Bull are filmed in a way that makes the viewer feel every punch, sweat, and drop of blood. The camera often focuses on the raw emotion of the characters rather than the spectacle of the sport itself. The use of black-and-white film is another visual element that reinforces the harshness and realism of LaMotta’s world, evoking the feeling of an era gone by while also stripping away the gloss and glamor of typical sports movies. The stark contrast in lighting and the close-ups of LaMotta’s face, particularly during the fight scenes, create an intimate portrayal of his internal conflict and self-destructive behavior.

In contrast, Rocky, shot by James Crabe, adopts a more classic Hollywood approach with sweeping camera shots and dynamic lighting to emphasize the heroism of Rocky Balboa’s journey. The film’s cinematography highlights the underdog narrative, with wide, expansive shots of the training montage and the final fight, underscoring Rocky’s determination and drive. The camera work in Rocky often employs soft lighting to create a sense of warmth and optimism, contrasting with the grittier, more somber tone of Raging Bull. The bright lights of the boxing ring in Rocky serve to highlight the grandeur of the moment, emphasizing the hope and triumph of the character rather than focusing on the emotional toll of the sport.

For those interested in films that contrast gritty realism with idealized heroism or movies that use cinematography to enhance character development, the visual techniques in both Raging Bull and Rocky offer powerful lessons on how camera work can influence the mood and message of a film.

2. Framing and Composition: Isolation in Raging Bull vs. Community in Rocky

In Raging Bull, the framing often isolates Jake LaMotta, visually representing his emotional and psychological isolation. During the boxing matches, LaMotta is frequently placed in the center of the frame, but the tight, often cluttered space around him reflects his inner turmoil and alienation from others. The way LaMotta is framed in many of the film’s most intense scenes—whether it’s in the ring or in his personal life—reinforces his sense of being trapped, both by his own rage and his fractured relationships. This visual style communicates the loneliness that comes with LaMotta’s self-destructive tendencies.

Rocky, on the other hand, uses framing to emphasize the sense of community and support surrounding the protagonist. The film’s composition often places Rocky in the midst of a supportive environment, whether it's in the gym with his trainer Mickey or in the streets of Philadelphia, where the people are shown cheering him on. In contrast to LaMotta’s isolation, Rocky’s journey is depicted as a shared experience with others. The framing often highlights Rocky’s connection to the world around him, reinforcing the idea of a man who rises from humble beginnings with the help and encouragement of his community.

For those looking for films about the psychological and emotional impacts of isolation or movies that use framing to reflect a character&rsq