Mise en scene

Mise-en-scene

In my theory lesson today I learned about Mise-en-scene, which refers to the visual theme and everything that is seen on the film including stage design and cinematography.

One key aspect of Mise-en-scene is setting and props. It is important to visually show the connotation of the setting and it can also manipulate the audience by creating specific expectations and then spontaneously taking a different turn. Making film sets can be very time-consuming but it can be very convenient if the setting already exists if it's being filmed in a more mundane realistic place e.g a generic park or street.


Another important aspect of Mise-en-scene is costume, hair and make up. This is important because it is a visual signifier that could portray the character's personality, status and role in society. Costume and make up is especially important because these can instantly be a signifier for people which the audience can recognize quickly. For example:

 How 'The Joker' from Batman has distinct make up around the eyes and mouth which is instantly recognizable even in the most sparse portraits. 

























Facial expression and body language also has a very significant part to play in Mise-en-scene. These can be easily denoted by the audience and can be an indicator or how a character is feeling.

 For example, in this picture the man has his arms crossed which could suggest that he is feeling closed off to others and is not approachable. His facial expression also represents sadness. His body language is also hunched over and he is leaning on something which could suggest that he is tired or could reinforce the sadness emotion.  

However, in contrast, this man is showing a happy facial expression which portrays him as a light-hearted character at this moment in time. His body language is also relaxed which shows that he is in a comfortable situation.



Positioning of character and objects is an important part of Mise-en-scene as well. It can direct the audience's attention to a certain object or obvious distance between two characters. 

In this image the distance between the character's are very close. This shows that the characters are close and that they are both fighting together.