Scene Deconstruction

Here is a link to a pivotal scene in 2001: A Space Odyssey:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y15NnGZIBuM&feature=related

This movie has plenty of themes to it, many that fans debate about to this day, but the main theme I see being exemplified in this particular scene is the evolution of man; more specifically, any of the focal points in life when new knowledge is attained.  The monolith that these apes have come across represents gained knowledge.  Such learned attributes has brought them to a new level of developmental growth, and this scene conveys that message in a very active tone, as there is no dialogue to guide you literally.

The two aspects of this scene that best illustrate the theme and symbolism at hand are movement and space.  Considering the director’s use of space first, it is important to look at the monolith’s placement in every shot in which it is present.  The monolith itself, being the center of visual interest for every frame following its introduction, takes up the majority of the screen.  Its presence and existence to the apes is mammoth and gargantuan; it is something they have never seen before.  The subtext of this message suggests that the monolith represents a new frontier in human knowledge.  Just like what it describes, it is at first difficult to comprehend and ominously intimidating.  So, to convey this feeling of intimidation and fright, the space is ordered so that this obelisk of mystery takes up as much room as the frame allows.

Movement is the secondary tool used to write out this theme.  The apes, in reaction to the monolith, are frantic.  At first wake, they are slow to realize what lies in front of them.  After a short moment of drowsy awe, they all spring into frenzied chaos over this gigantic protrusion.  All of this hustle and bustle of characters further reinforces the theme of man’s reaction to new frontiers.  Tension builds as orchestrated music grows more intensely while the apes inspect the statue, instating the apes’ immediate instance of confusion and panic over the news that has come about.  Release occurs at the peak of this string and choir section as the camera gazes at the impending eclipse in the sky in line with the obelisk when the music ceases suddenly.  This release symbolizes the completion of the process by which the apes have acquired the knowledge.