Mise-en-Scene Analysis

Title Slide

    This assignment consisted of me picking a camera still and then describing the scene that was set, or its mise-en-scène. This allowed me to learn the specific factors of mise-en-scène and have a hands-on attempt at identifying them. I chose a still from the movie La La Land that I am familiar with. We worked on identifying camera angles and shot/proximity, lighting and color values, compositions, characters, and staging, as well as depth of Field and Space. These factors contributed to the creation of a romantic, whimsical, and ethereal scene. 

Camera Angle and Shot/ Proximity 

Camera angle and shot/ proximity were the first things we were asked to identify. Out of all the characteristics of the scene, this was the one that contributed the least to the mood. We see a full/long two-shot. This camera angle and shot type contribute to the mood of the scene by letting us see how the characters are interacting with each other. This scene requires us to see the full body as Sebastian (played by Ryan Gosling) lifts Mia (Emma Stone) into the air, with his hands on her hips. This creates a romantic feeling, as the audience acknowledges that this is a pivotal moment for their relationship. 

Light and Color Values

Lighting and color values are the main contributors to the whimsical and ethereal mood. We get cold colors with dim high-key lighting. This scene is full of blues, purples, and greens. These colors create a hopeful, fantasy land. We want this date to go well, as it will help define Mia and Sebastian's relationship. The lighting is even with minimal shadows created. This allows the scene to be dark and changes the meaning of colors that are typically associated with depression. Instead of the colors coming off as aggressive, they are toned down, allowing for hopeful whimsy. 

Compositions, Characters, and Staging

Composition, characters, and staging help further the dynamic between both characters. Indicating to the audience their closeness. Sebaation lies on the left vertical of the rule of thirds, while Mia is being pushed to the center. This draws our focus first to Seb then Mia, which emphasizes how Mia's movement is in response to Seb. Because Mia is floating in the center of the screen, the scene's fantastical, unrealistic nature is enhanced. The characters' making direct eye contact with each other helps establish the romantic mood. They seem to be ignoring realism and entering fantasy. Reaching into a space where the laws of physics being broken doesn't distract them from each other. 

Depth of Field and Space

The last aspect we focused on was depth of field and space. These characteristics helped even out the scene. We have a deep depth of field that allows the background and characters to appear clearly to the viewer. This illustrates how the characters are about to interact with the space to the fullest. The amount of negative space helps keep the focus on our couple and the planetarium background. The places in which it is located help indicate where Mia is heading, as she transitions into the next scene.

The mise-en-scène of this scene creates a scene that fits the musical, rom-com that is La La Land. The elements came together to create this factastical still, which is my favorite part of the movie. In this specific scene, Mia and Sebastian are on their first date. We, as the audience, are hopeful for their union and want this to go well. The romantic whimsy makes us believe this will be a love story for the books, which causes us to end up sorely disappointed in the end of the movie.