We were tasked to analyse the performances from the 4th and 5th chapters of The Grand Budapest Hotel. In class, we discussed the expressive use of voice, intonation, movement and physicality throughout.
The scene opens on a silhouette of M. Gustave (Ralph Fiennes) standing by a balcony. Through a diligent use of posture, he is depicted as a reflective and insightful person.
Throughout this sequence, Ralph Fiennes gives an extremely expressive performance as M. Gustave. He uses lots of hand gestures and other precise motions to oversee and instruct the hotel workers.
His performance can be described as instructive and clear, as well as naturalistic. Fiennes utilises a very particular way of speaking, which illustrates his character as a member of aristocracy. Gustave additionally establishes a tone of authority, through which he asserts himself as a self-assertive figurehead. His words are chosen conscientiously in order to meticulously instruct the members of the working class.
During the conversation with Madame D, Fiennes uses subtle gestures such as a smile in order to feign intrigue. Interestingly, his measured demeanour is shattered when he makes notice of her nail varnish. Gustave’s precise movements are abandoned during this revelation which gives the viewer an invaluable insight into Gustave’s true colours.
Fiennes’ movements throughout are choreographed and precise and are meticulously timed to Anderson’s predetermined camera movements. As the camera crabs left, Fiennes naturalistically glides left. Anderson additionally makes use of blocking throughout this sequence, Gustave is always centrally framed in order to emphasise his authority.
Otis Morley’s A-Level Film Studies Blog 