Richardson feels that this film was groundbreaking in that it was the first of it kind to project in which non-traditional ideas and methods of expression were found in a mass media film. He says, “But then, the consciousness began to swell, until at last it spilled into mass media, and, of all unlikely places, an American film” (Richardson 1). He feels that this film was important to the film industry. This film was likely one of the first of its kind to display what has been called dark comedy and satirical in nature. It was very bold of the filmmakers to poke fun at world in such a way, and at at a time when the cold war was a serious issue. However Richardson also felt that the film fell short of what it could have been. He questions the humor style of the film, “Often, however, one feels that those responsible for the film have settled for rather worn gags and bits of political sniping that have become just too fashionable and easily accepted to have a place alongside the work's better moments” (Richardson 251). He believes that too much old humor was used and that it may have taken away from the better parts of the film. Richardson also seems to question the moments of comic relief that randomly pop up throughout the film. Richard sums up his thought best when he says, “All the above imputes to the film a lack of coherence and artistry. Harmful, but not deadly, weaknesses. But Dr. Strangelove has a defect worse than these; namely, that it is not, to the times to which it wishes to speak, fresh in point of view or deep in insight” (Richardson 252).
Compositional modes of film were very important in the overall outlook on the film. Due to the fact that the film was show in black and white, the concept and lighting and contrast was very significant. They did a good job of making for clear shots, and good lighting. The props and costumes were of good quality and appeared to be true to the time. The special effects were sufficient for a film of that time. The cinematography in th film was interesting in that it seemed to go hand in hand with the fact that it was a black and white film. I feel like the fact that the film was in black and white definitelty effected the way the movie was filmed.
I feel like the score and sounds were used to help with the comedy aspect of the film. It seemed at times that some of the music really didn't fit the scenes, which may have been what the makers were going for. I also found that the repetition of the particular song throughout the film was an interesting take on the soundtrack of the film. I doub't other films at this time used the same song over and over again.
The set design was interesting. I particularly enjoyed the way the war room was set up. Other than that I feel that the sets were true to the time, and that they helped the filmmakers to get across what they wanted to and a comedic sense.
Stillman, Grant. "Two of the MaDdest Scientists." Film History. 20 (2008): 487-500.
Web. 17 May. 2010.
Richardson, Jack. "'Strangelove' and 'the Silence.'" The Hudson Review. 17.2 (1964): 250- 255. Web. 17 May. 2010.
