Director Case Study- Greg Mottola

Greg Mottola

Mottola's title sequences in his films are always interesting. Superbad’s opening 2 minutes is praised because of the music choice and editing. Similarly the title sequence in Adventureland is very intriguing and makes the audience exited for the film. Both films title sequences reveal little about the narrative and the subtle hints the audience is given makes them even more intrigued.

One of Mottla's techniques is using high key lighting in his films to express the light hearted nature of them. He also often chooses a young cast to reflect the element of youth in his films. Whilst his films still have deeper meanings Mottola's aim is to make a film enjoyable for the audience. Mottola's audiences have been older in his last few films, the ratings in Paul and Superbad are 15. The narratives in Superbad and Adventureland are simple and similar as they find the main characters with problems to overcome throughout the film, however Mottola puts a twist in the stories. For example in Superbad we think that the main characters have been unsuccessful in wooing the girls they liked. In the last scene we see them get together after the audience is led to believe it wouldn't happen.

Paul was a different film for Mottola as it drifts away from the coming of age theme and focuses on science fiction and comedy. The various action sequences in the movie show his ability to direct more than one genre of film. The latest project for him is a film called Keeping Up With The Joneses ans set to be released in April 2016. It is also going to be more action based than previous films directed by Mottola.

                                                                                Fact File

He obtained his MFA in film from Columbia University

He is 51 years old

Mottola acted in films Celebrity (1998) and Hollywood Ending (2002) with Woody Alan.

Greg married Woody Alan's assistant.

From this task I have learnt about what its like to direct a film. I've found out how important the role of the director is when making a god film. Mottola shows that for a film to be successful it needs to engage the audience straight away with a good opening sequence. I have also learnt that the cast has a big influence on how good a film is. Having a strong cast that work together well with good chemistry makes for a fun and engaging film. For example in Paul the already tested chemistry between the main characters makes for a great film. I hope to have a few protagonists introduced in my opening sequence.