Breaking The 4th Wall

The definition of a 4th wall break is 'a dramatic technique in a work of fiction where characters display an awareness that they are in such work'. Most Cinematic techniques are used to draw the viewer into the films universe, but breaking the fourth wall usually intends to do the exact opposite of that, they remind the viewer that they are watching a film. The technique can be used to contribute towards a film in may different ways for comedic or even dramatic effect. The 4th wall break is most often used for comedy as it can create very funny and memorable punchlines throughout the film. 

However, just using a 4th wall break does not make the film a comedic masterpiece, the set-up and delivery of a 4th wall break are just as important, maybe even more important than the actual 4th wall break itself. 

This scene shows a quick and almost cheap method of breaking the 4th wall as it is used for a quick throwaway joke which gives of an impression that the joke is lazy. 

Some directors have even had the 4th wall break become one of their specialties. Mel Brooks for example, he goes as far to have the main characters watch their own movie, completely shattering the 4th wall.

Although these scenes are crazy in terms of film making, there is definitely a method to his madness. For example, the film blazing saddles repeatedly points out how unrealistic Hollywood's interpretations of 'the west' is  and what life was like in 'the west'; because, in reality, westerns were just large sets filled with actors in a studio who are acting in fake towns who then eventually drive off the set in a car. Blazing Saddles reminds people that film has its limitations at portraying reality, therefore Mel Brooks further demonstrates how 4th wall breaks can be used for purposes other than just comedy. 

4th wall breaks can not only purposefully take the viewer out of the film, but they can also make the viewer much more intimate with the film and its characters. This is because the best way to show a characters motives and intentions is to have the character look to the screen and tell the viewer directly.

House of Cards often uses a 4th wall break for dramatic reasons (as opposed the the usual comedic purpose) and uses them best when it has Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey) tell one thing to another character, only to tell the viewer the opposite, showing his true intentions. This method helps the viewer immerse themselves into the universe and the character as it gives them a much deeper understanding of the characters and their intentions.