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Brian De Palma: Master of the Split Screen

Asher Bell

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Published in Brian De Palma S Split Screen: A Life In Film

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Brian De Palma is one of the most influential directors of all time, and his use of the split screen is a major part of his signature style. De Palma has used the split screen to create some of the most iconic and memorable scenes in cinema history, from the shower scene in "Psycho" to the famous "staircase shot" in "The Untouchables." In this article, we will take a look at De Palma's use of the split screen in his films, from his early works to his later masterpieces.

Brian De Palma's Split-Screen: A Life in Film

by Douglas Keesey

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3201 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	362 pages

Early Use of the Split Screen

De Palma first began using the split screen in his early films, such as "Dressed to Kill" (1980) and "Blow Out" (1981). In these films, De Palma used the split screen to create a sense of tension and suspense, often juxtaposing two different scenes or images to create a jarring effect. For example, in "Dressed to Kill," De Palma uses the split screen to show the killer stalking his victim while the victim is unaware of the danger. This creates a sense of suspense and dread, as the audience knows that the killer is getting closer and closer to his target.

A Scene From Brian De Palma's Dressed To Kill, Showing The Killer Stalking His Victim While The Victim Is Unaware Of The Danger. Brian De Palma S Split Screen: A Life In Film

The Split Screen in De Palma's Masterpieces

De Palma's use of the split screen reached its peak in his later masterpieces, such as "The Untouchables" (1987),"Carlito's Way" (1993),and "Snake Eyes" (1998). In these films, De Palma uses the split screen to create a sense of chaos and confusion, often juxtaposing multiple scenes or images to create a disorienting effect. For example, in "The Untouchables," De Palma uses the split screen to show the Untouchables chasing Al Capone's henchmen while Capone himself is watching the chase on television. This creates a sense of chaos and confusion, as the audience struggles to keep track of all the different elements on screen.

A Scene From Brian De Palma's The Untouchables, Showing The Untouchables Chasing Al Capone's Henchmen While Capone Himself Is Watching The Chase On Television. Brian De Palma S Split Screen: A Life In Film

Brian De Palma is a master of the split screen. He has used this technique to create some of the most iconic and memorable scenes in cinema history. From the shower scene in "Psycho" to the famous "staircase shot" in "The Untouchables," De Palma's use of the split screen has helped to define his unique style of filmmaking. He is a true visionary, and his films continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

Brian De Palma's Split-Screen: A Life in Film

by Douglas Keesey

4.4 out of 5