Hi blog! I recently researched on my previous posts about technical elements but thought it was also important to research in depth about mine-en-scene. I always thought it was interesting how mise-en-scene is used all throughout films in all different types of ways. To research this I will be reading multiple articles, researching mise-en-scene elements within horror movies and then taking notes on how it creates the effect it does.
Research
The term mise-en-scene refers to anything that is placed in front of the camera like setting, lighting, costumes, props and the actors placement. It plays a huge role on how horror films build tension and convey fear to audience. To not get confused with cinematography, which is built on camera work, it primarily focuses on the visual effect a director builds on screen without using sounds or movement. Every aspect that has to do with an object, a costume or details has to do with mise-en-scene and is specifically put their to make the audience feel uneasy.
Additionally, in horror, films, lighting, and color are often two components that work together with physical aspects to create tension. The use of low-key lighting and shadows are examples of mise-en-scene, which makes the audience question what they’re unable to see. An example of this is in a dark setting they may see abandoned houses or Erie buildings that give a sense of danger being around. Costumes and makeup also take part in this, for example: Pale skin, worn down clothes and abnormal outfits hint towards a threat being around without real words being spoken. The visual effects also include props like, teddy bears or bloody objects which help build a horror feeling in the atmosphere, conveying an unsettling feeling.
A good example of mise-en-scene is in the film Get Out. This is because the home appears clean, bright and welcoming, but in reality, there are tiny details that make it unsettling. The costumes appeared normal while background details such as the placement of servants or family members hinted towards danger before the plot is really shown. The calculated use of setting and visual detailing Allowed horror to develop overtime rather than using typical elements like jump scares.
Reflection
By researching mise-en-scene, I learned that it plays a huge role in creating fear. Every visual detail is specifically chosen to create discomfort. Horror doesn’t always depend on action or violence, but also visual storytelling, creating a sense of tension before anything actually happens. This research helped me realize how this is used to guide the audience’s emotion and build up fear.
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