Dutch tilt/angle

Posted by Mick Fanning on March 01, 2004

I'm interested in the origins of the phrase Dutch Tilt or Dutch Angle. It describes putting the camera at an angle to add interest or dramatic impact in cinematography. The best known example of this is Carol Reed's production of Graeme Greene's novel "The Third Man".

I've been led to believe it comes from when coastal barges were commonly used in trade around and across the English channel. The Dutch barges had keels and the English ones didn't. When moored at low tide, the Dutch barges would lean over.

Can anyone confirm or deny this?

Mick Fanning
Brisbane Qld

• Dutch tilt/angle ESC 01/March/04
  • Dutch tilt/angle Mick Fanning 02/March/04
    • Filmmaker's Dictionary ESC 02/March/04
      • Filmmaker's Dictionary ESC 03/March/04
        • PLEASE don't erase prior postings Bob 03/March/04