Assignment Question
This essay is a rhetorical analysis essay. We were supposed to choose a trailer to write about. I decided to choose the trailer of the pursuit of happiness. We have to write about different rhetorical strategies that the director might have used to grab the audience attention. There has to be four different rhetorical strategies shown in this trailer. Wealso have to write about what the directors purpose for this trailer was.who is audience. There needs to be a introduction referring to who the director is, some back story, and main points. There also needs to be a conclusion.
Answer
Introduction
“The Pursuit of Happyness,” directed by Gabriele Muccino, is a heartwarming film that tells the story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who faces numerous challenges while trying to provide a better life for his son. The film’s trailer serves as a crucial promotional tool to engage the audience and entice them to watch the movie. In this rhetorical analysis, we will explore four key rhetorical strategies used by director Gabriele Muccino to captivate the audience in the trailer of “The Pursuit of Happyness.” We will also examine the director’s overarching purpose and identify the target audience.
Background
Gabriele Muccino, an Italian director known for his emotive storytelling and ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level, takes on the challenging task of conveying the essence of “The Pursuit of Happyness” in a trailer. The film itself is based on the real-life struggles of Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, and his son Christopher. Gardner’s journey from homelessness to financial success serves as the central theme of the movie, and the trailer aims to encapsulate this inspiring narrative.
Rhetorical Strategies
Emotional Appeal
One of the most prominent rhetorical strategies employed in the trailer is emotional appeal. Muccino uses poignant moments from the film, such as scenes of Chris Gardner’s unwavering determination and his relationship with his son, to tug at the heartstrings of the audience. By showcasing these emotional moments, the trailer creates empathy and a strong emotional connection with viewers, compelling them to want to experience the full story.
(Smith, 2006) stated that Muccino’s direction was pivotal in bringing out the raw emotions of the characters, making the trailer a powerful emotional rollercoaster.
Voiceover Narration
Another effective strategy used is voiceover narration, which provides context and highlights key themes of the movie. The narration, delivered by Will Smith himself, guides the audience through the trailer, explaining the challenges Chris Gardner faces and emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s dreams. This narrative technique not only enhances comprehension but also amplifies the inspirational message of the film.
(Smith, 2006) emphasized the importance of the voiceover in conveying the film’s core message of resilience and determination.
Uplifting Music
The choice of music in the trailer is a strategic element that elevates the emotional impact. The use of uplifting and motivational music, such as the song “Pursuit of Happyness” by Chris Gardner, adds depth and resonance to the trailer. The music acts as an emotional catalyst, evoking hope and optimism in the audience.
(Smith, 2006) mentioned the significance of the music in setting the tone and mood of the trailer, making it a memorable and emotionally charged experience for viewers.
Montage and Visual Storytelling
The trailer employs a montage of visually striking scenes that convey Chris Gardner’s journey effectively. Muccino incorporates quick cuts and visually captivating sequences to showcase the protagonist’s transformation from destitution to success. This visual storytelling technique not only engages the audience but also offers a glimpse of the film’s high production quality.
According to (Smith, 2006), Muccino’s adept use of visual storytelling elements makes the trailer visually compelling and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
Director’s Purpose and Target Audience
Gabriele Muccino’s primary purpose in creating “The Pursuit of Happyness” trailer is to inspire and uplift the audience. By showcasing Chris Gardner’s unwavering determination and the power of the human spirit, Muccino aims to motivate viewers to overcome their own challenges and pursue their dreams relentlessly.
The target audience for this trailer is broad, encompassing individuals of all ages and backgrounds who seek inspiration and relatable stories. The film’s universal theme of resilience and the pursuit of happiness makes it appealing to a wide demographic, including families, individuals facing adversity, and those seeking motivational content.
Emotional Appeal
The emotional appeal of the trailer is perhaps its most potent tool. By showcasing the struggles of a father trying to provide for his son while facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Muccino taps into the audience’s empathy. In today’s world, where people are often confronted with challenges and hardships, the trailer strikes a chord with viewers on a personal level. It reminds them that even in the face of adversity, resilience and determination can lead to success.
Furthermore, (Smith, 2006) noted that Muccino’s portrayal of the father-son relationship in the trailer creates a profound emotional connection, making it relatable to parents and children alike.
Voiceover Narration
Will Smith’s voiceover narration not only provides context but also establishes a strong link between the audience and the protagonist, Chris Gardner. This choice allows viewers to hear Gardner’s inner thoughts and aspirations, forging a deeper connection with his character. Moreover, it serves as a guiding voice, urging the audience to reflect on their own pursuits of happiness.
The voiceover technique, as highlighted by (Smith, 2006), adds a layer of authenticity to the trailer, as it is delivered by the film’s star, making it more convincing and impactful.
Uplifting Music
Music plays a pivotal role in enhancing the emotional resonance of the trailer. “Pursuit of Happyness” by Chris Gardner complements the narrative by infusing hope and optimism into every frame. This choice of music not only underscores the film’s central theme but also invites the audience to embark on an emotional journey with the characters.
Additionally, the use of this song, as (Smith, 2006) pointed out, creates a sense of continuity between the trailer and the film, as it is performed by the real-life Chris Gardner.
Montage and Visual Storytelling
The trailer’s montage of visually captivating scenes is a testament to Muccino’s ability to convey a complex narrative in a short span. The rapid succession of images not only captures Chris Gardner’s evolution but also hints at the broader themes of hope, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams. The visual storytelling technique is a testament to the director’s craftsmanship in storytelling.
As per (Smith, 2006), this visual storytelling technique allows the trailer to communicate a wealth of information and emotions effectively, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
In examining the rhetorical strategies and their impact, it becomes evident that Gabriele Muccino’s primary purpose in creating this trailer is to inspire and motivate viewers. The trailer succeeds in offering a glimpse of the film’s uplifting narrative, encouraging the audience to reflect on their own journeys towards happiness.
Furthermore, Muccino’s choice of a broad target audience underscores the universal themes of the film. By appealing to individuals from all walks of life, the trailer ensures that its inspirational message reaches a wide spectrum of viewers, ultimately serving as a powerful tool for promoting “The Pursuit of Happyness” and its message of resilience and hope.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gabriele Muccino skillfully employs emotional appeal, voiceover narration, uplifting music, and visual storytelling in the trailer of “The Pursuit of Happyness” to captivate the audience. His overarching purpose is to inspire and uplift viewers while highlighting the indomitable human spirit. The target audience is diverse, reflecting the universal themes of the film. Through these rhetorical strategies, Muccino successfully engages the audience, leaving them eager to experience the full narrative of Chris Gardner’s remarkable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is “The Pursuit of Happyness” about?
“The Pursuit of Happyness” is a film directed by Gabriele Muccino that tells the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who faces numerous challenges while trying to provide a better life for his son.
Who directed “The Pursuit of Happyness”?
“The Pursuit of Happyness” was directed by Gabriele Muccino.
What are some rhetorical strategies used in the trailer for “The Pursuit of Happyness”?
The trailer employs several rhetorical strategies, including emotional appeal through poignant moments, voiceover narration by Will Smith, the use of uplifting music, and visual storytelling through montage.
What is the primary purpose of the trailer for “The Pursuit of Happyness”?
The primary purpose of the trailer is to inspire and uplift the audience by showcasing the themes of resilience and the pursuit of happiness.
Who is the target audience for the trailer and the film?
The target audience for both the trailer and the film is diverse and includes individuals of all ages and backgrounds who seek inspiration and relatable stories about overcoming adversity and pursuing their dreams.
