Mise-en-scene & Symbolism in Film
Subject Overview
Students are introduced to the concept and meaning of ‘mise-en-scene’. They will learn about four elements of mise-en- scene: space, lighting, performance, costume and make up. Students will explore the symbolism present within the elements of mise-en-scene, (also known as ‘elements of cinema’), and how directors can convey ideas, feelings and themes within film without using words, but rather through symbolic colour, lighting, props, framing and performance. Students will also develop their opinions surrounding the symbolic meaning of an image and articulate their reasoning.
Duration
- Contact Hours: 3 hours per week
- Total Hours: 30
- Duration: 10 weeks
The meaning of Mise en scene: translated from French to English: “placing on stage” or “put in the scene”, this translation can be further understood to mean what is ‘in the frame’ or ‘elements of cinema’ in the context of film studies.
– BSF Curriculum
Aims
- Explore the meaning of mise-en-scene and distinguish what is ‘in the frame’ or what ‘elements of cinema’ are.
- Explore the four elements of mise-en-scene used by directors to create meaning in the frame: performance; costume and make up; space; and lighting and framing.
- Examine how mise-en-scene creates meaning that provides a deeper insight into a character’s internal journey, feelings and situation.
- Analyse and interpret symbols in various texts to create meaning from viewing the symbols.