Mise-en-scene

02/19/21

Setting: Setting of a scene is where the scene takes place. This is important to Mise en Scene because there could be a specific setting that is vital to the understanding of a film or is symbiotic in some way.

Decor: Décor can be used to establish time and setting. For example, the house décor of Stranger Things establishes the setting of the film, the 1980’s; shown by old-fashioned wallpaper, telephones, and lamps.

Lighting: Lighting establishes the mood and theme of the scene. When the lighting is dull, it could set up the scene as sad, tense, or scary and when the lighting is bright, it could establish a happy scene. Further, different colors of lighting could establish the mood. For example, a red flashing light could be a signal of danger.

Depth of Space: Depth of space is the distance of objects/characters from the camera. This can sometimes be symbolistic, making it very important to Mise en Scene. Depth of space can be vital to the overall understanding of a film.

Costumes and Makeup: Costume and makeup is very important to establish a character. Producers may purposely dress the main character to stick out and be easily seen by the audience. Moreover, the way a group of characters is dressed can help establish setting. For example, by the way the characters are dressed in The Witcher, it is easy to recognize that the series takes place in a kingdom based off the fancy gowns and crowns.