A motif is any element of a film that takes on symbolic significance through systematic repetition. Filmmakers can develop a motif out of almost any film element. Examples include gestures, costumes, locations, decoration, props, music, sound effects, color, lighting, and composition.

Even aspects of cinematography like camera distance, camera angle, and focus can also be used to develop motifs. Or, they may take on a character of a motif (i.e. a character being consistently shown from a low angle).