For this screening notes assignment, we explore the "Shot, Connotation, Myth Production" style of analysis and apply it to a single shot in Viaggia in Italia directed by Roberto Rossallini.
Denotation:
A man and woman sit outside while the woman sunbathes. The couple talks and do not look at each other often, and the woman recounts a former pursuer's efforts to woo he to her husband. The camera shots focus primarily on the separation between the two with very isolating shots.
Connotation:
Katherine is telling this story to Alex, her husband, and it is easy to see that she is unhappy in her current marriage. When looking at the context of this shot, one can understand that the relationship has lost its romance, even to the point of Katherine thinking about how much better her life was before.
Myth Production:
A common thought in humans is the belief that he or she will be better off in another place. Examples include "the grass is always greener in other pastures", one will be happier with another person, the need for the next things in life, assumption of gratification while not being content in the current situation. Journey to Italy isn't dispelling this myth, but promoting it. The audience is meant to believe that Katherine should leave her marriage, and that divorcing is the best option because she'll be happier with another man. The music in the background reflects the mood, it is a somber ditty that adds sense of hopelessness for the relationship's strength and future.
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