Saving Private Ryan

Saving Private Ryan begins on a boat on its way to a war. A handheld camera is used to give a shaky effect, which symbolizes how nervous and terrified all the soldiers are. The first shot in the boat used lots of close ups as a way to show the thoughts that are running through their minds and the fear they have. There is lots of water and you can hear throwing up in the background again showing the nervousness of the men. The fact that a handheld camera is used gives the viewer a POV look at the situation and really makes them feel as if they are in the fight. As soon as the men get out of the boat they are fired at and quite a few are killed on the spot. The main character that we follow, Ryan, then orders his men to get out, causing more casualties. Wide shots are also used to show the extreme nature of the situation and the effect of all the death on the landscape, this is visually shown with the sea running red.