Mise-en-scène Case Study

Mise-en-scène refers to the arrangement of elements that make up the visual aspects of a film. It is crucial for detailed, in-depth cinematographic products, considering it engages and connects the audience with the scenes. To learn more about this significant factor in creating film, my media studies classmates and I researched a still/frame from three movies or TV shows of our choice. We then analyzed the elements and meaning behind the mise-en-scène. I chose a still from Arrival (2016), Avatar (2009), and The Matrix (1999). All of the stills below are from Google.

Arrival (2016)

Above is a still from the sci-fi movie, Arrival. Pictured are a linguist and a group of investigators assessing and attempting to communicate with the extraterrestrials (the heptapods) that have unexpectedly settled on Earth for unknown reasons. Cinematographers carefully consider specific elements of mise-en-scėne to convey this message. The birdcage is a small, yet necessary, prop due to it adding to the professionalism of the scene; it indicates that the scientists prepared for the worst-case scenarios (the bird determines whether the atmosphere is safe for humans). As for the set design, the heptapod spaceship prop is intricate, well thought out, and doesn’t look cheaply constructed, suggesting the scene's significance. The heavy gear worn by the crew further signifies the seriousness of this event. The limited color palette, low light, and smoke behind the barrier provoke mystery and a sense of darkness. The illumination of the barrier also makes the aliens the center of attention. These elements convey suspense and the importance of this scene to the plot of the Sci-Fi movie. On top of that, the sound aspect adds more depth to this scene in Arrival; the intense breathing and the heptapods “talking” in response to the conversation (expressing their non-human-like characteristics) further contribute to this intricate still.

Avatar (2009)

Above is a still from Avatar, and when closely examined, has specific elements of mise-en-scène that elevate it to a higher standard. In particular, the careful construction of the set design resembles the outdoors and the nature of Pandora, adding a sense of realism. The characters’ costumes are necessary for displaying the Na’vi people and their culture. As for the makeup, tangible and digital makeup were essential for making the characters come to life and accentuating their characteristics. The colors and illumination of the tree in the scene were equally important for building the storyline. More specifically, it represents the spirituality of and draws the audience's attention to the Tree of Souls, a tree that one can bond with Eywa the most. In reference to blocking and framing, the audience can see how Neytiri touches the Tree of Souls with care and cherishes the nature of Pandora without being distracted by other features of the scene. The calm music ties the scene together and indicates a peaceful mood.

The Matrix (1999)

The props in this still, such as the weaponry and bullets, immediately display the action and suspense of The Matrix. In other words, they add to the realism of the fighting scene—a recurrent theme in this movie, considering it is a Sci-Fi/Action film. Similarly, the damaged lobby (such as the shattered walls and broken glass) indicates that the fight between Neo and the SWAT team is intense and long-lasting, putting the audience on edge and intriguing them to continue watching. Neo’s futuristic black outfit and glasses are significant to the iconic clothing worn throughout the series; it adds depth and meaning to the theme and characters of the movie. More specifically, the futuristic, black costuming resemble suits which suggest that Neo and Trinity are undercover, completing a suspicious act. In reference to the acting, the fallen characters further convey that the fighting scene was destructive. Neo's stunts and dodging of bullets while also partaking in the fight imply that he is skilled and dominant over the opposing team. As for blocking, Neo’s body is visible for the audience to see the stunt and recognize his talent and power. Framing is also essential since it focuses on Neo and the SWAT team (rather than other areas in the lobby). It is worth noting that The Matrix films with 120 to 150 frames per second (some being 300 frames per second) rather than the standard 24 frames per second in film, thus creating the iconic slow-motion effect. The upbeat music and bullet sound effects accurately describe the scene and add to the suspense and intensity.