Visual Semiotic Analysis

Comedian Tim Hawkins' DVD "I'm No Rockstar" uses primarily a medium shot with a closed frame, although these are not used exclusively. The DVD, filmed live at the MetroCenter in Arlington, Texas, utilizes different camera shots effectively, offering a variation that captures the best aspects of his performance. For instance, when Hawkins is performing one of his hilarious song parodies, the camera uses a comfortable medium shot. However, as is often typical of comedians, Hawkins repeatedly uses facial expressions to emphasize or make his punch lines, and in these cases the camera uses a close-up shot. A few times in the DVD, the camera pans the across the audience and gives a panoramic view of the stage and the audience, providing a good visual on where the performance is taking place while also emphasizing the popularity of Hawkins' performance (about 2,000 were in attendance).

The DVD uses camera angles effectively as well. Much of the performance is shot from a very slight angle that places the subject just barely below Hawkins (who is obviously on an elevated stage), creating a feel that the viewer might as well be sitting in the audience. These looking-slightly-up angles are also used from side angles, again evoking an in-the-audience emotion. This is important for giving the DVD viewers a realistic position from which to view Hawkins' performance.

Because the nature of a live comedy performance relies heavily on being able to see the performer's actions and expressions, it is imperative for the recording of such a performance to achieve effective angles and shots. "I'm No Rockstar" does this very well, and captures all of the humor that Hawkins has to offer.