Operator - Analysis

Operator is a short film directed by Caroline Bartleet, about a 999 Fire Brigade call operator who has to respond to a terrified woman struggling burning house. Operator is very authentic. The stress, tension and uncomfort all feels as if it is one moment of many moments. While the call is a terrifying situation, it feels worryingly routine and almost mundane. The Operator (played by Katie Dickie) likely goes through this situation many times a day.

Cinematography

Simple cinematography forces the audience to focus on the sound. The only notable cinematography are the occasional close ups to capture the emotion on the Operator's face.

Sound

Sound is by far the key micro-element in this short. In fact, it could be an audio drama. Sound effects on the phone-caller's voice and overlapping dialogue create a huge amount of stress and tension.

Mise-En-Scene

Once again, mise-en-scene is simple and utilitarian.

Editing

There are very few cuts; Bartleet uses long takes to allow the dialogue to flow and to build up tension. The majority of the cuts are in the opening montage, establishing the call centre with brief snippets of other operators. From then on, the takes are drawn out. There are only 11 cuts in the whole film. The lack of cuts also adds to the authenticity of the film, avoiding snapping the viewer out of the story.

Performance

Strong vocal performances from Dickie and Vicky McLure (who plays Gemma) create a verisimilitude. The acting makes the situation seem real.