Mise en scène
Apart from research approaches and strategies we have studied mise en scene this week. Mise en scène is the arrangement of scenery and stage properties in a play. In film analysis, the term mise en scene refers to everything in front of the camera. Mise en scene in film is the overall effect of how it all comes together for the audience. The elements of mise en scene are
- Sets
- Props
- Lighting
- Costumes
- Actor blocking
- Shot composition
We always saw some video references and it made the concept more clear to me. The video reference showcased the importance of mise-en-scene in film. I have learned that if is properly used, it elevates film from a series of moving pictures to an art form with purpose. Something bursting with atmosphere and emotions that pulls viewers in and doesn’t let go.
Film Example: Titanic
James Cameron’s epic romance and disaster film is largely memorable for its bewitching use of key mise-en-scene elements. The biggest challenge is that it is completely set in a ship sailing in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Moreover, deep space is often used where even the far view of the ship is in clear focus. The setting in this film has created the contrast between higher and lower classes. The vivid acting style by several main and supporting characters has enhanced the storyline, and also made the story run smoothly. Lighting in this film has created meaning in all scenes, the mood has enhanced through different lighting in several scenes. The costume in this film is functional in telling audiences that the different characteristic of the characters in the scene. It has also enhanced the contrasted class level in this film. Space arrangement in this film has giving the meaning to the particular scene through different camera placement and camera shot. It wasn’t the tragic love story alone that made Titanic the success it was. The awe-inspiring visuals played an equal role. Now, that’s the power of a meticulously designed mise-en-scene