I’m choosing the movie Napoleon Dynamite for example of the basic visual elements. 

Space is used very well from the opening title scene where the camera and plates of food are very close to each other. This gives a sense of flatness to the opening credits. It’s it very clear the objects to focus on in the space that is in front of the camera. The plates are moved back and forth much like a note card or slide show. This leaves no question of the purpose and vision of the director.

Line and shape in Napoleon Dynamite is used a lot. There are many examples of the hard edge vertical and horizontal lines of the gym lockers or the schools hallway and the steps out the school. These hard lines are contrasted by the soft shape of the figures.

The tone and color in the dance sequence is clear. It’s cool and relaxing blue with the white t-shirt that brings in the viewers focus. The spot light on the stage and the blue curtain are very dark tone to bring out the contrast of the dancing figure.

The use of color in the school are very bright it’s almost plastic. 

While the color in Napoleon’s house are muted with browns and light ocher. This is always contrast with the bright clothes of the character.

The movement of this shot is great. It shows the giant landscape and how small the character is. This gives the feeling the length of the movement and how the character gets tired. It’s the movement that brings the focus even though the large landscape is very still. It makes for a good contrast.

Rhythm is a big focus for the dance scene. There are vertical lines, very good contrast between the background and the character. The shapes are very square and this brings the focus to the character. The rhythm to dance to the music and the snake and worm movement are a great example of rhythm.