Film Language test learner response

WWW: Some original, fluent writing, using terminology well
EBI: Re-do Q1 doesn't focus enough on mise-en-scene (CLAMPS)



Mise-en-scene
What does the mise-en-scene suggest about the characters and events in the film? [12 marks]

The mise-en-scene shows the first character presented is sitting down slumping and this could suggest how he has given up. Through the use of costume and make up, we clearly see that Keaton is made up to look utterly defeated and beaten up. Furthermore, through the same use of costume, we see that the killer is shown in a long black over coat with a hat which is a classic "ominous" costume used in the noir genre.

Through the use of props such as the gun, the shots of ships and several dead bodies, we are presented with the classic iconography of the stereotypical gangster and crime genre. This helps the audience to easily understand the atmosphere and plot as it uses conventions from the specific genre.

The lighting is also very effective as there is the use of low key lighting which is again typical of the genre and suggests the thrilling nature and atmosphere of the characters and events. This use of lighting is further used as the killer is always in a silhouette which helps to hide his intentions and also his identity.

Finally, another way the mise-en-scene shows suggestions about the characters events is through the use of the actor's movements, as we see very slow and deliberate movements from the killer which shows that he controls the pace of the narrative and has immediate power of Keaton. Also because Keaton doesn't move and is always in either a close up or medium shot, this suggests how he is trapped in both the setting and frame and that his death is inevitable.