Viewing Cue: Fish Tank

In this clip from Andrea Arnold’s Fish Tank (2009), a handheld camera follows the film’s protagonist, Mia.

Discussion Questions

After watching this clip from Fish Tank, consider the questions below. Then submit your response.

Question 1.

How does the use of a handheld camera facilitate identification with Mia? In what other ways does the cinematography affect the viewer’s perspective on the character?

Question 2.

Identify the aspect ratio of the film. How does the aspect ratio link to aspects of mise-en-scène, like the fence or the horse’s chain? How does this cinematographic choice support the film’s theme of economically precarious female adolescence?