Abstract:
The purpose of this research is to study the characteristic of naturalism in Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardennesfilms, using qualitative research methods of historical studies and content analysis of their 6 feature length films. The findings of this research are as follows. Naturalism in the Dardenne brothersfilms is heavily influenced 1) by the environment of their hometown, Liège in Belgium and 2) by the artistic philosophy of previous generations of realist film directors and dramaturges. All of their films are set in Liege and focus on the social issues of that place.The style of representation of the Dardenne brothers' films is a synthesis of that of naturalist literature and of that of documentary film. The subjects of their film usually are characters from the lower class who are driven by societal pressure to commit crimes. In terms of narrative, their films often use a combination of classical and minimalist narrative styles by placing new conflict after a resolution of the previous conflict, which eludes life in reality. However, they also employ the narrative style of a thriller film to make a slice of normal life appear more interesting to the audience. Regarding the films' setting and location, the Dardennes usually use non-place or a place of transition to indicate the aimless psyche of the character and to familiarize them to the audience. In terms of film technics, the Dardenne brothers often go for long take scene, hand held camera, as well as following and sudden close-up shots to allow the audience time and space to identify themselves with the characters and to feel the truthfulness of their emotion