'The Birds' Commentary

Within the thriller genre, many directors and cinematographers include a large amount of point of view, tracking and medium close up shots to help create a sense of ongoing mystery and tension. This type of camerawork is used particularly well in 'The Birds' because it helps to convey the characters emotions and feelings, as well as allowing the viewer to be presented with what the characters see within the scene at the same time, encouraging them to build up a relationship and sympathize with the characters. A significant example of a tracking point of view shot is where the two main characters are slowly edging their way past the antagonists. The pace of the tracking shot builds up tension while the use of a point of view shot allows the viewer to relate to the characters fear and almost puts the in the position of the characters.