Unit 10: film production

Learning Aim A
Tallulah Frendo
Understand codes and convention of fictional film production

Section 1 – narrative

A typical narrative follows the classic narrative theory established by Todorov. Todorov explores the
idea of a story needing to have a specific order – equilibrium, disruption, recognition, reparation and
new equilibrium/resolution. The story is told in chronological order, adding a sense of structure. The
equilibrium is a state of physical balance, meaning that everything in the movie appears to be
running perfectly smoothly. This then leads to the disruption, which is when the narrative is either
not in chronological order or in other ways where the narrative does not follow the direct causality
pattern of the events. The next stages of Todorov’s theory are recognition and reparation. The
Recognition is where the characters begin to realize that there is something wrong as the problem
starts to unfold and the reparation, which is the characters’ attempt to repair/ solve the disruption.
The final stage of the theory is the new equilibrium, which is when the characters are given a choice
and the path they choose to take could determine the ending.

Most crime and home invasion genre follow Todorov’s structure. For example in Don’t Breathe the
equilibrium is that there are three young robbers that want to get out of their town. The disruption
is that the blind man fights back. The reparation is Rocky trying to get out. The new equilibrium is
that she gets out but the blind man is still alive.

Every narrative tends to use similar types of characters known as stock characters. This is explained
in a theory by Propp, who created the ideology of character types. These types are:

 Hero – seeks something

 Villain – obstructs the hero
 Princess – hero’s reward
 Father – gives the reward
 Donor – provides information and help
 Helper – helps the hero
 Dispatcher – sends the hero on a quest
 False hero – character begins as a good character but turns out to be positioned on the bad
side.

In Propp’s theory, these character types are established to increase understanding from the point of
view of the audience. Encouraging them to form positive attachments with certain characters such
as the helper, as the audience will experience their journey and hope that they will succeed. This
theory also encourages the audience to form negative attachments with certain characters such as
the villain. This is because the role of the villain is to obstruct the hero. This would cause the
audience to feel disheartened as they are positioned on the side of the hero. Propp’s theory also
reinforces that fact that everything that happens has a cause and effect, meaning that different
events occur as a result of the previous event.

Most crime and home invasion films include stock characters. For example in Prisoners the hero
would be the father, however in some cases he may be considered as a false hero because he
tortured the suspect. The villain would be the old woman who kidnaps the kids. The princess would
be the children.

However if a story does not follow this narrative that is demonstrated in Propp’s theory there is
another narrative theory that it may follow, which is by Roland Barthes and is the idea that all media
texts are open and polysemic. Barthes’s theory is the idea that media texts need to be unravelled in
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Learning Aim A
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order for the audience to understand that there are several potential meanings attached to them. As
an audience we start by looking at the narrative from one point of view, one set of previous
experiences and begin to create our own meanings of the text, as the media text continues to
unravel the audience gain a wider knowledge of the plot and characters. Therefore they are able to
view the text from a different, possibly more intellectual angle and understand the deeper meanings
that are attached to it.

The final typical narrative structure that I will be addressing is the theory of Binary oppositions by
Levi Strauss. This theory is based around two opposing forces, for instance nature vs. science, safety
vs. danger etc. It can be two characters, usually the hero and villain, have contrasting personalities.
The good side is always represented as the side that the audience will identify with and support and
the bad side will help to build tension throughout the movie, causing the audience to dislike them or
feel suspicious about them.

If a narrative does not follow the simple narrative structure other media narrative techniques can be
used to convey a different meaning for the audience. For example a movie could start at the end and
works its way back to the beginning. A movie that I have seen which demonstrated this technique
effectively is ‘Memento’, as the use of this structure helps to position the audience in the shoes of
the protagonist and build a deeper connection with the characters. Other devices that can be used
are flashbacks or cross cuts in order to make the narrative more interesting and engaging for the
audience, giving them a deeper insight into the plot and characters. Split screen can also be used to
allow the audience to see two sides of a situation at the same time. For example in 500 Days Of
Summer spilt screen is used to show expectations vs reality.

Most films have a closed narrative which means that the ending of the film is clear. Some films have
an open ending, for example the ending of Zodiac is doesn’t tell the audience for certain who the
killer is. The effect of this is that it allows the audience to be creative and form an ending in their
minds.

Section 2: visual story telling

In this section of the assignment I will be focussing on the several elements that make the home
invasion genre and the crime genre effective, for example I will be commenting on the typical codes
and conventions, technical codes and symbolic codes of both genres, as well as addressing how
some films of both genres go against these typical elements to convey a different message.

Some general conventions of the crime genre are:

 Rural or suburban locations, isolated

 “Based on a true story…” sense of realism.
 We are in the characters’ shoes because we are made to identify with them
 Foreshadowing
 Dramatic irony
 Mystery is a key theme
 Red herrings
 Good Vs evil
 Family life of the people involved in the crime become negatively affected
 Vigilante justice
 Open ending to add mystery
Unit 10: film production
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Some General conventions of home invasion genre are

 Usually set in a large maze-like house, confusing layout

 Night time setting
 Invasion of the home – a fear we all have
 Female protagonist – survives, lone survivor, the ‘Final Girl’ trope/archetype
 Communication lines are severed – telephone
 Attempt to escape always fails – there is no escape
 Villains wear masks – hidden identity – human invaders but masks make them seem
monstrous/inhuman
 No one survives or one person survives - open narrative – continues the sense of mystery
and fright (also leads to sequel)
 Upper-middle class American white family/couple – rich, achieved the ‘American Dream’,
and lower class people trying to take it away from them. Rarely are poor people the victims.

A home invasion movie that I have studied that includes some of these conventions is ‘Don’t
Breathe’. The movie is set in a rural or suburban location to demonstrate a sense of isolation to the
audience and to highlight the fact that the characters feel as though there is no form of help for
them. This convention is also typical in the crime genre as in ‘Zodiac’ during the scene where the
protagonist goes into the basement of the Zodiac suspect, the house is located in an isolated
suburban area, which heightens the level of danger as there is no escape and he is more likely to be
a victim.

This type of location also helps to put the audience in the character’s shoes, as they will begin to feel
alone and isolated, as this location foreshadows that something bad is going to happen, increasing
the tension and causing the audience to feel a strong sense of unease. In ‘Don’t Breathe’ the old
man’s house also follows the conventions of the home invasion genre, as it has a maze like layout to
reflect the confusion that the characters are experiencing. This layout also increases tension for the
audience and characters, as it would force them to anticipate what could be around the comer. In
this movie another convention that is evident is that there is a female protagonist called Rocky, who
is presented as strong and independent, as she was she was able to use the man’s weakness to
come up with a successful plan for her to escape. She is the lone survivor or the ‘final girl’
trope/archetype. The fact that the home invasion genre makes a deliberate choice to usually have a
female protagonist makes it differ from other genres, as in the majority of genres women are seen
as weak and vulnerable. The fact that in ‘Don’t Breathe’ each escape route that the characters take
fails highlights that there is no escape and the characters are feeling trapped and suffocated by their
environment. For instance in the movie the thieves try and use the blind man’s disability to their
advantage, when planning their escape route. However the blind man’s other senses are heightened
and because of this he always catches them before they escape.

Other movies that I have studied that include some of the conventions of the home invasion and
crime genre are ‘The Strangers’ and ‘Zodiac’. During both films it states that the storyline is based on
a true story. This immediately adds a sense of realism for the viewer, as they are forced to believe
that these events could actually take place. This is an effective choice as it increases tension for the
viewer and heightens their level of fear.

Another convention that is typical of the home invasion genre which ‘The Strangers’ follows is that
all of the villains wear masks in order to hide their identity and make them appear monstrous and
inhuman. This increases fear for the viewer, as it may remind them of previous nightmares that they
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have experienced and force them to become a reality. Also ‘The Strangers’ is based on a white upper
class American couple, who are seen as though they have achieved the ‘American dream’. However
the invaders, who are typically of a lower class, shortly take this lifestyle away from them. This is
conventional of the home invasion genre as it demonstrates to the audience that home invasion is a
fear that we all experience regardless of our class, which makes the audience feel a high level of
sympathy for the victims.

Some other conventions that were apparent in both the home invasion and crime movies that I have
studied are the recurring use of dramatic irony, which is often used to make the audience feel more
involved with the plot and characters and gain a more developed understanding of the deeper
emotions that the characters experience. For example in ‘The Strangers’ when the protagonist is
facing the door and there is a murderer behind her the viewer is aware that she is in danger but she
is not. This makes the audience and character powerless as the character is unaware and can’t react
and the audience can’t change it but they still feel emotionally attached to the character. Also the
recurring use of foreshadowing adds dramatic tension and builds anticipation about what happens
next by creating suspense and conveying information to help the viewer gain knowledge on what
might happen later. An example of this is if there is a close up shot of a prop the audience will
become aware that the prop may have significance later on in the film. Dramatic irony is also used in
crime genre for example in ‘Prisoners’ when the audience is aware that character is not the
kidnapper however the characters believe that he is so they torture him.

Another recurring theme in both of the home invasion films I have studied is only one person
survives which increases the sense of mystery and demonstrates an open narrative highlighting that
these movies may lead to a sequel. For example in ‘Don’t Breathe’ Rocky survives and the movie
ends with the villain surviving which leads to an opportunity for a sequel.

Finally the last two conventions that are apparent in home invasion films are that they are set in
night time and the communication line breaks down. For example in both films they are set in the
night time or early morning which creates a sinister atmosphere and gives the impression that there
is no one to help. Also in both films they find it hard to communicate with each other as they can’t
reach each other, in ‘Don’t Breathe’ they get split up in the house and in ‘The Strangers’ the man’s
phone had the batteries stolen which made it impossible for him to communicate.

Some conventions that are specific to the crime genre are red herrings, good Vs evil and negative
effect on the family life of people who are involved in the crime. An example of a crime film that I
have studied that follows the convention of red herrings is ‘Zodiac’, when the audience are taken
into the suspect’s house they are lead to believe that it is him. However as the movie unfolds, both
the audience and characters begin to understand that it is not him. This builds tension and ensures
that the theme of mystery is apparent throughout the movie. Also in ‘Zodiac’ it is clear that the
crime has a negative effect on the character’s family life. For example in ‘Zodiac’ the character’s
marriage begins to breakdown, which demonstrates the fact that his life is being taken over by the
crime. An example of when the theme of good Vs evil is apparent in one of my case study films is in
prisoners when the father of the kidnapped child knows who is responsible for the kidnap. This
example clearly demonstrates the conflict between the hero and the villain, by explicitly showing the
audience who the good character is and who the bad character is. This then increases the emotional
effect as the audience will instantly feel attached to the heroic character and detached from the
villain as they are binary opposites.

Some of the technical codes of the home invasion and crime genre are:
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 Low-key lighting – set at night. Power goes out and there’s no lights – candles light the
house, or fireplace, torches – strips or flickering light – sense of unease. Potential
foreshadowing.

The way lighting is used in this genre is effective as it creates a sinister atmosphere. The use of low
key lighting creates a sense of unease for both the characters and audience.

 Colour – creates fear and unease.

Also a yellow colour palette is commonly used to demonstrate a feeling of sickness and unease. An
example of when I have witnessed these lighting techniques being used is in ‘Don’t Breathe’ when
two of the thieves are about to going the house to commit the robbery- this adds a feeling of
sickness and fear and the colour yellow usually signifies a warning. Often in home invasion and crime
films a dark blue filter is used to give the scene a cold, mysteries atmosphere. An example of a movie
that I have studied that includes this filter is ‘Prisoners’ as it helps to increase the mystery and
tension in the film. Also it helps to foreshadow the disequilibrium in the narrative. The colour blue
could also reflect the feeling of loss and sadness the character is feeling.

 Long shots to depict the isolation of the house, usually from inside the house looking out at
the predator. POV used to position us in the characters’ shoes.

Usually in these films there is an establishing shot of a significant character’s house, which gives a
sense of isolation. The fact that the shot usually takes place from inside the house, looking out, helps
the audience to mirror the emotions of the characters and put ourselves in their position. For
example in ‘Scream’ where she looks out of the back window to the empty pool.

 Close-ups to emotion and fear, also used to show how close the threat is e.g. feet walking
past the bed.

For example in ‘Don’t Breathe’ the scene in which Rocky is running away from the house uses a
close-up of Rocky’s face which increases the intensity of the scene by allowing the audience to see
the effect of the previous events, as we can now see the visual effect of violence that has occurred.
Through the use of realistic make up we see the aftermath of the constant battle between her and
the blind man. She is bruised and cut; her clothes are ripped and add a sense of vulnerability.

 handheld camera used mostly – throughout the house, shaky and frenetic, sense of
disorientation and panic

This allows the audience to feel a deeper connection with the characters. The unsteady camera
forces the audience to feel as though they are inside the character’s minds because the characters
are unstable much like the camera. Also a handheld camera would have a physical effect on the
audience as it give them a strong sense of POV because it moves like a person does.

 Use of high and low angles, particularly POV low angles looking up at the villains.

High and low angles are used to show a significant difference in status between characters. For
example in ‘Silence Of the Lambs’ when Clarice finds the girl in the basement. A low angle is used on
Clarice to show that she holds power and a high angle on the girl to show that she is the victim. The
use of these angles would make the audience feel not only sympathy for the girl but also they will
feel as though Clarice can succeed.

 long shots to show the chase, usually the hero in front and villain chasing/standing behind
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Learning Aim A
Tallulah Frendo
The use of long shots build tension for chases. For example in scream when Casey is running away
from the house it makes the audience feel sympathy for the victim as she does not know what is
about to happen and the audience do, creating a sense of dramatic irony.

Some of the symbolic codes of the home invasion and crime genre are:

 · 911 calls – cut off

Often in these types of films 911 calls are cut off which emphasises the lack of help. This technique is
necessary for the narrative as it keeps the characters in danger. For example in ‘The Strangers’ when
the characters try and call 911 it does not work due to the battery being removed by an attacker. At
the end of the film the main character tries to use the radio to call the police, which reinforces that
fact that phones calls help to drive the narrative

 Contrapuntal sound

Contrapuntal sound is sound the contrasts with what is happening in the film. In these types of films
this sound is often used to increase fear for the audience. For example in ‘The Strangers’ we can
hear calm soft music coming from a record player while they are being attacked. These binary
opposites confuse the audience, which forces them to reflect the emotions of the characters

 Objects

In these types of films objects are used for symbolic value. In ‘The Strangers’ the ring box represents
a happy relationship which we know is going to be destroyed. In ‘Memento’ pictures are used to
represent the theme of memory. In ‘Prisoners’ the whistle is used to represent the strong
connection that the character has with his daughter and highlights the theme of rescue.

A crime movie that I have seen that challenges audience’s expectations is ‘Memento’, as the story is
told backwards. The reason for this is to reflect the fact that the main character has memory loss,
the fact that it is back backwards helps to put the audience in the character’s shoes by forces us to
feel the confusion that he feels.

A home invasion movie that I have seen that challenges audience’s expectations is ‘You’re Next’, as
the victims become the attackers. The reason for this is that it helps to keep the audience engaged
as they feel as though the victims actually have a chance of winning rather than just being
completely taken over by the attackers.

It is important that genres evolve because it keeps the audience interested and prevents film from
becoming predictable. Also films should relate to what is going on in the world and the world
changes over time. The horror genre would evolve as the purpose of these films is to relate to what
most people are scared of at a particular time.
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Zodiac Scene Analysis

The crime/thriller Zodiac was directed by David Fincher and released in 2007. The film was
set in the late 1960’s to early 1970’s and tells the story of a serial killer called the Zodiac
who tortures and brutally kills all of his victims. The plot is based on a group of detectives
who make it their mission to reveal the identity of the Zodiac killer.
The scene I will be analysing is the Basement scene when Robert Graysmith who is an
amateur detective goes inside a Zodiac suspect’s house and gets taken in to the basement
where some information could possibly be revealed. In the scene I will be observing how
mise-en-scene, camera, editing and sound are employed to entice the audience into the
elements of the crime/thriller genre.
Mise-en-scene
The mise-en-scene is firstly effective through
the set design. At the very beginning of the
scene it’s raining and Robert Graysmith walks
into the house of the Zodiac suspect, which is
suburban and isolated, implying that there is a
lack of help or assistance for the hero. This
immediately increases the tension of the scene.
The fact that it is raining during the scene is
conventional of the crime/thriller genre as it
increases the intensity and indicates that
something negative is about to happen. This
use of pathetic fallacy increases the discomfort of the hero, as he is wet. This minor
discomfort foreshadows the extreme discomfort that he will experience later on in the
scene. As we move into the house of the Zodiac suspect the corridors and the staircase are
narrow, creating a sense of claustrophobia for the audience, positioning them in the shoes
of the protagonist. This is also conventional to the crime/thriller genre as it creates a tense
atmosphere, forcing both the audience and character to feel as though they are being
suffocated by their environment. The claustrophobia created by the house is also
metaphorically reflective of how he is beginning to narrow down his search for the Zodiac
killer, making him feel as though he is becoming immersed in the search. The physical
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reflection of this is the protagonist is getting nearer to the basement where danger will
more than likely increase.
Another element of mise-en-scene that increases the
intensity of the scene is the lighting. At the beginning of
the scene when the two characters are in the kitchen
having a conversation, high key lighting is used to
demonstrate to the audience that the tension is low,
creating a sense of safety and security. However as we
move through the scene the sense of safety is destroyed by
the over-head lighting that is used when the character
becomes aware that he is in danger. The use of shadows
highlights to the audience that there is a potential
dangerous side to the man. He is lit from above, but his face is partially darkened, giving the
impression that he is hiding his identity. This would make the audience suspicious as they
may form conclusions in their head that he is concealing information about the Zodiac killer,
linking to the overall theme of mystery that is being created throughout the scene. This use
of chiaroscuro lighting could also have religious connotations as it could reflect the contrast
of good and evil, making the viewer question whether the Zodiac suspect can be trusted.
This could be a demonstration of the traditional angel and devil effect. The part of him that
is in the light would typically be considered as the more socially acceptable side of his
character and the side of him that has been darkened could reflect the fact that his
character may have a hidden secret. This again heightens the level of mystery for both the
audience and character, which is a conventional theme in the crime thriller genre. The use
of shadows also makes it physically difficult for the Zodiac suspect to be seen. This could
mirror the emotions of the protagonist, as the Zodiac search is still taking place, which may
cause him to feel lost or ‘in the dark’. This causes the audience to feel empathy as they are
being forced to feel the emotions of the protagonist through the visual aspects of the scene.
Significant props are used to add substance to the plot. The
props imply both events, past and future, and personality traits
of the suspect. The use of a mirror is key in the scene when
forming opinions on characters. For example, the suspect can
be seen in a mirror, which is used to reflect the binary opposite
sides of his character. Typical of the genre this technique is
used to build suspicion in the audience through adding
additional layers of personality to characters. Consequently, this forms complex characters
that are two-dimensional. In this case showing both the Zodiac suspect is humane and
potentially monstrous. In the same way that the mirror indicates another side to the
character the phone on the wall casts the audience’s memories back to the
previous scene, in which the Zodiac states he will take and kill victims to the
basement via the telephone. The use of the phone both opens up the
Zodiac’s ideas yet maintains the mystery needed for the crime/thriller genre
to be effective.
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In the same way props add to the scene the use of facial expression is important in adding
emotion and tension. When the Hero realises there is a possibility
the man could be the Zodiac there is a clear change in facial
expression. The Hero’s eyes widen which is viewed through the
close-up shot, implying fear. This is a watershed moment because
it indicates that the atmosphere of the scene has changed, from
one of intrigue to danger.

Camera and editing

Both camera and editing reinforce the intensity change in the scene. To begin the scene is
mellow, which can be identified in the balanced
frame, with characters filling either side. This is a
natural introduction to show the scene is in a state
of equilibrium. There is a transition however when
the Hero begins to ask about the Zodiac. The
suspect turns concealing one side of his face, again
suggesting two sides to one personality. In addition
this conceals his reaction as eye contact is lost,
which makes him seem untrustworthy. To
emphasise this the use of shadow intensifies the
darkness. This links to conventions of the crime/thriller genre as it reflects that the Zodiac
investigation is unclear and mysterious. The progression of the scene implements different
camera techniques and shots. The use of high angles provides a view of the Hero from
above eye level, making him look vulnerable, isolated and powerless. A POV shot
accompanies this technique by making the audience feel they are looking up at the man,
once again adding to the vulnerability of the Hero and audience. This is unlike the low shot
of the suspect which provides a below eye level shot emphasising his size and power in the
scene. Towards the end of the scene there is a close up shot accompanied with zoom, on
the face of the Hero, which heightens the tension and realisation that he is in real danger.
There is also a dolly movement used to pull the audience away from the suspect. This
positions the audience to be in the perspective of the Hero as they become detached from
the suspect, as he isn’t the Zodiac. A shot reverse shot is used between the suspect and the
protagonist, which highlights the fact they are binary opposites. It emphasises the
difference between the accused and accuser and how the audience will form different
opinions based on this.

Sound
Sound is used in this scene to create a sense of realism and build tension. This is firstly
highlighted through the diegetic, ambient sound of the rainfall. Pathetic fallacy is therefore
used to set the atmosphere. This is aided by being loud in the sound mix, which creates a
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sense of confusion, reflecting how the case is still a mystery. Another diegetic sound that
adds to the scene is the creaking floorboards. There are traditional connotations of this
sound, which include danger, subsequently enhancing fear. It raises suspicion that they are
not alone, and there is something hidden. The climax of the scene is when the kettle
whistles. This diegetic sound builds to a crescendo, which implies that danger is approaching
faster and with more impact. It’s conventional of the genre to emphasise the chaos within
characters’ mental state. Finally the tone in which characters speak and their dialogue are
significant because they represent their emotions towards the scene, allowing the audience
to respond appropriately. In the scene the Hero is more timid and higher pitched, which
implies innocence and vulnerability. Whereas the suspect has a low register, rumbling voice
implying he is untrustworthy and menacing adding to his mystery. There is a turning point in
this scene that is expressed through dialogue. It is the moment in the basement when the
hero asks the suspect if he lives alone; the suspect completely ignores this question and fails
to give an answer. This builds tension, as the question asked keeps the audience engaged,
making them feel as though they need to know the answer but the power of silence created
by the suspect increases the emotional effect because it causes the audience and
protagonist to feel a high level of discomfort, which is conventional in the crime/thriller
genre.
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Don’t Breathe: A Scene Analysis

In this essay I will be analysing a scene from Don’t Breathe, directed by Fede Alvarez. I will be
focusing on elements including; mise-en-scene, camera, editing and sound.

Mise-en-scene:

The mise-en-scene is effective through the set design. Set in a blind man’s house, the audience
experience several rooms that provide information on the movie’s protagonist. For example, the
tool room connotes a sense of danger and reinforces the horror genre of the movie. The dining room
appears old and rustic, yet is clearly owned by a person of higher wealth, as seen through the silver
candlesticks and place settings on
the table. The bedroom gives
insights to the blind man’s
character and positions the
audience on his side, using family
photographs which create a sense
of what he values. Alongside this is
the video of the little girl which
forces the audience to feel
sympathy asking the questions; who is she to him? Where is she now? How important is she to him?
This allows the audience to become more engrossed and creates a sense of enigma.

Another element of mise-en-scene that is effective during this scene is the lighting. The lighting at
the beginning of the scene establishes the time of day. Early morning creates a sense of fear for all
audience members who associate this time of day with danger, monsters and fear in the horror
genre. Light is given from the outside porch light during the conversation between the two boys. The
lighting appears to have a green and yellow filter which gives connotations of a sense of sickness,
nerves, unease and warning. As the scene moves on, lights appear through the windows which imply
safety and security outside the home. As the characters turn on the lights, the audience, along with
the characters, are lured into a forced
sense of security as there is nothing
looming in the shadows.

Props are used throughout the scene

however; several are used as horror
trademarks. The hammer in the tool
room early in the scene foreshadows
the fact that it is going to be used as a
weapon later. It suggests violence and brute strength. A bell shown hanging over the door, relates to
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the situation of a blind man needing security and suspecting intruders alongside the conventional
electronic alarm system.

The fact that the intruders are wearing black suggests an element of security as they can hide in the
darkness. From the audience point of view this doesn’t affect the outcome of the movie as the man
is blind and seems to be able to use his other senses to locate them accurately. The costumes relate
to the possible target audience of teenagers, as they are casually dressed with backpacks, which
highlight the fact that they are working class and by no means professionals in the home robbery
field. The blind man wears a vest, joggers and has bare feet adding to the sense of his vulnerability
which is in contrast to the end of the scene as he begins to take control.

The body language of each individual

character gives the audience insight into
their personalities. Money’s body language
denotes confidence and dominance. He
takes control of the scene by choosing to
go upstairs. Alex’s body language shows
submissiveness as he goes along with
Money’s plan. Later, within a split second
his body language becomes forceful as he grabs Rocky’s arm in hope of getting her to leave, linking
to the protective nature of a man,
but quickly goes back to his passive
body language as he leaves without
her. At the beginning of the scene
Rocky shows she is in control as she
instructs the male characters to be
quiet. This is in contrast to the
traditional representation of women
in the horror genre as they are
usually portrayed as weak or
vulnerable. However, by the end of the scene that stereotype is apparent as her body language
becomes still, almost as though she is frozen in fear. Finally the blind man enters the scene and
appears to be shaking which has connotations of vulnerability and fear. Suddenly his body language
becomes violent and aggressive as he restrains Money. This is in contrast to the blind man’s
generation and disability, giving the audience the unexpected threat to this horror movie.

All the intruder’s facial expressions appear to be those of fear and anticipation of what is to come.
This builds tension as it forces the audience to feel empathy into the characters as they move
through a journey of the unknown.

Camera:

The way camera is used at the start of the scene compared to the rest of the scene is in stark
contrast. The opening is used to establish
power and status of the characters. A shot-
reverse-shot is used to make it clear to the
audience that Money is seen as the more
dominate, confident character. Money fills the
frame and obscures the audience’s view of
Alex. Alongside a worm-eye-view which puts
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the audience in the same position as Alex, looking at Money as the more powerful character. When
the scene moves into the house the camera is used to create a different affect. One long slow shot is
used as we move through the house. It almost gives the feel of a snake’s movements. This has
connotations of poison, serpents and evil, which empower the horror genre. The camera passes up
through the house, through the floor boards, adding a sense of claustrophobia and characters being
trapped in a small space. This long camera shot is perfected by the use of steadicam and the dolly
are not only to establish the environment what is in it also gives the audience a feeling of discomfort
and disorientation. A close up on the hammer and walls, as well as the camera tilting up to the
skylight provides dramatic irony for the audience as it gives a sense of foreboding that this tool could
be used as a weapon later. However it is clear that the characters are unaware of the importance of
the props and are oblivious to hints that are being provided. This heightens the level of tension for
the audience. During this scene the 180 degree rule is also broken. This is effective because it puts
the audience in the position of the characters, as they will be forced to lose focus and feel a strong
sense of disorientation, which allows them to feel more involved in the action of the horror.

Editing:

Editing works side by side with camera movements in these scenes. We move from one long slow
movement with no cuts as the characters move through the house which provides us with a sense of
reality as it is shot in real time. Then, as the tension climaxes as the blind man enters the scene we
move to fast pace action-match editing allowing for heightened tension of conflict. This emphasises
greatly in the shot-reverse-shot from boy to man which illustrates the high level of conflict and
power, implying that the action is about to become intense.

Sound:

In my opinion, sound works most affectively in these scenes to reflect the horror genre it is set in.
Firstly, the ambient sounds of the birds singing in the trees are contrapuntal to the theme as birds
are usually associated with a sense of calm and light. However, in this case, they are used to create
an unsettling mood. No other ambiance sound is used such as road traffic which creates a sense of
isolation. As you move through the house, a low humming diegetic ambience sound is used. This
sound increases in waves of crescendo as the possibility of being caught and danger could be
experienced, such as when the characters turn corners, enter rooms and have their backs turned to
the camera. This has connotations with irritation, highlighting the characters, along with the
audience, feeling on edge. The use of silence is used to the advantage of the horror genre as the
audience are forced to mimic the actions of the characters and therefore become silent themselves.
In the bedroom, a loud sound mix and a non- diegetic sound is used to make the sound appear more
prominent, almost as though the audience are closer to the action and hearing the situation from
the point of view of the blind man as due to his disability his other senses would be heightened. My
favourite contrast of sound in this scene is the contrapuntal sound of the little girl singing on the
video. It highlights a highly affective contrast between the innocence of a child and the violation that
is taking place. The foley sound as the blind man turns off the child’s home video, adds tension as we
are immersed in silence. We all, suddenly, feel that the innocence and playtime is over and the real
violence is about to begin. The dialogue between
the characters in this scene is extremely casual.
The use of swear words, coupled with a constant
aggressive tone reinforces the fact that these
characters are of a working class background. The
low volume of their voices adds a sense of secrecy
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and mystery to the scene. Throughout the scene, heavy breathing is heard which heightens anxiety
and contradicts the title of the movie; “Don’t Breathe!”

Silence of the lambs: A Scene Analysis

Silence Of The Lambs is directed by Jonathan Demme and written by Ted Tally. The main plot of the
movie is based on Clarice Starling, a young intelligent FBI trainee, who has been sent to the
Baltimore state hospital for the criminally insane to interview an inmate, Dr. Hannibal "The
Cannibal" Lecter, a brilliant renowned psychiatrist turned infamous psychopathic serial killer. The
movie fits into the crime/physiological thriller genre, as it effectively demonstrates both the physical
and mental effects that the crimes committed have on the characters. The scene I have chosen to
analyse is the scene where the FBI trainee goes into the basement in an attempt to save one of the
killer’s victims. During this analysis I will be observing how mise-en-scene, camera, editing and sound
are employed to engage the audience in the elements of the crime/psychological thriller genre.

Mise-en-scene

Mise-en-scene comprises all the visual aspects of a movie. Mise-en-scene is used effectively firstly
through the settings, as the scene is set in the basement. However it is not a typical basement it is
presented almost as a Minotaur labyrinth, a maze of dark, derelict rooms and corridors beneath the
ground which usually sits under a house. This scene is a game of cat and mouse. Both of these
elements are conventional to the genre. As we follow the protagonist through the basement we pass
through the stages of how the victims are murdered, which increases the level of tension.

The protagonist’s first encounter is with a victim who is being held prisoner in a well, adding
a sense of claustrophobia by forcing both the audience and protagonist to put themselves in the
shoes of the victim. This then would increase the sense of empathy that the audience are
experiencing. The high angle shows the difference in status, portraying the victim as weak and
vulnerable and the protagonist as strong and independent. When the protagonist is with the victim
the audience are given a sense of security, which is then almost ripped away within seconds when
she leaves. This could reflect the beginning of an emotional roller-coaster for the audience and
characters, which reinforces the fact that the murderer may have been mentally unstable and he is
using the power that he holds to psychologically torment his victims, demonstrating that he is a
conventional villain.

The second room that the audience experience, which demonstrates a different stage of
murder, is the bathroom. Typically a bathroom has connotations of a relaxed calm atmosphere.
However in this case the bathroom is being used as a place to keep victims that have already had
their skin brutally removed, which immediately causes the audience to feel a strong sense of
discomfort, mirroring the emotions of the characters. The fact that the bath is white and is covered
in red blood shows a complete contrast between light and dark, which could have religious
references to heaven and hell. Also the bath could be physically used to wash away the blood of the
victims and metaphorically used to wash away his sins.
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The next room is set up like a

medical room, where surgery is performed,
where the skin removal is performed, this
room could have an adverse effect on the
audience. Medical rooms are normally a
place of help, but the scene shows dirt,
makeshift medical equipment and a green
watered fish tank with body parts floating
which gives the audience the realisation of
the terrible acts performed there.

Lastly the sewing room, as she passes through the audience can just see the shadows of
sewing machines making something that would be associated with an older lady’s hobby or exciting
new creation sinister and threatening. In the
medical room there are moths, which represent
how the killer sees himself by demonstrating the
transformation from a male to a female. At the
end of the scene the audience see a butterfly
decoration, which shows both the killer’s and the
protagonist’s completed transformation.

At the beginning of the scene low key lighting is used to create a sinister atmosphere. Then as we
move through the scene a blackout is used to increase the level of danger and instantly causes her to
appear vulnerable. As an audience we view her in night
vision, which has a green hue. This has connotations of
sickness, reflecting the mental state of the killer. Her
being in complete darkness could be a metaphor for the
fact that she is unaware of what is coming next. The high
key lighting that is used at the end of the scene when she
shoots at the window could represent safety and security,
almost as though this was the “light at the end of the
tunnel’, giving the audience a sense of relief as they would
begin to feel as though the mission has been
accomplished.

The main prop used in this scene is a gun, which has connotations of violence and protection. Guns
are typically used in the crime genre, as they are used by cops as a form of protection and as their
only weapon.
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Facial expressions and body language are the final elements of mise-en-scene that I will be analysing.
In the first part of the scene Clarice appears scared but focused, she demonstrates the use of her FBI
training in her body language, keeping her back against the wall, gun in front of her and entering
rooms with caution for her protection. She shows control
and professionalism, however we see a distinctive change
when the lights go out in the second half, it is then we see
Clarice lose control, she begins to shake, lose her footing
and her training disappears showing vulnerability. This is
conventional for this genre and reflects how the victims
have no control over the killer as they feel that they are
helpless and there is no escape for them. Also when the
murderer is using the night vision goggles he has an
advantage over his victims. During this scene we see the
killer reach his hand out to attempt to touch Clarice’s face and hair, which could be interpreted as
love but is then contrasted with him pointing a gun at her. The obsessive nature of the killer towards
his victim is conventional to this genre.

Camera and editing

Both camera and editing work alongside each

other to increase the intensity of the scene.
Firstly an eyeline match is used when Clarice
finds the victim to put the audience in the
position of the protagonist as we are seeing
directly what she sees. This shot then progresses
into a shot reverse shot, with Clarice in low angle
and the victim in high angle. This shows a
significant difference in status, demonstrating
that Clarice has high status and putting the
audience in the victim’s shoes.

A POV shot is also used when the killer is using the night vision goggles, which forces the
audience to view the situation from the killer’s perspective and creates a sense of dramatic irony, as
we know something that Clarice doesn’t. The use of the shot also shows the protagonist’s weakness,
being in the dark as the killer uses his advantage to force the protagonist to appear as weak and
afraid. However at the end of the scene she regains her power, as she was able to defeat the killer.
This increases the emotional effect, as the audience almost follows the emotional journey of the
protagonist.
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At the end of the scene a sequence of images are edited together: a close up of the dead
Buffalo Bill, a newspaper clipping about the murders, light shining through the broken window, a
close up of the butterfly decoration. As an

Audience we could infer that these images could be a

representation of what led to his death. The final image
being the butterfly could reflect that the protagonist has
fully completed her task, showing that her character has
transformed from an insecure police officer into a strong
heroine. The pace of editing at the start of the scene is
very slow to create a creepy atmosphere and build
tension for the audience. At the end of the scene the
editing becomes much faster, which reflects the
panicked emotions that Clarice is feeling when she
shoots him. Slow motion editing is used when he is being shot, which allows the audience to see the
physical effects of the violence more clearly and also help to put us in the mindset of the
protagonist. For her and for us time slows down.

Sound

Sound is another element that is used effectively throughout this scene to increase the level of
tension that both the audience and characters experience. Firstly through the use of loud dialogue,
dog barking and screaming, which create a chaotic atmosphere, reflecting Clarice’s state of mind.
The use of the diegetic sounds of the machine and record player are conventional to the genre as
they increase the level of fear, making the audience feel uncomfortable and uneasy. The use of the
sound of heavy breathing instantly increases her panic, as this is the only sound at this point in the
scene it shows how intense the situation is and reflects that she feels as though it is taking her over.
Finally the use of the non-diegetic violins is conventional to the genre. When he reaches out his hand
and touches her hair haunting music and sounds are used. The fact that this sound builds to a
crescendo demonstrates how the situation is gradually becoming more intense and also it could
reflect how Clarice is slowing getting closer to completing her mission of finding the killer.
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Don’t Breathe: A Scene Analysis

Don’t Breathe is written and directed by Fede Alvarez. The main plot is based on three
working class thieves who decide to rob a wealthy blind man. This movie fits into the
horror genre by taking an unexpected twist, as the blind man becomes the formidable
character and forces the thieves to fight for their lives. I have chosen to analyse a
later scene in the movie where the audience are led to believe that Rocky is on the road
to safety. However, we soon realise that the horror expands to the outside world also.
The scene starts 1 hour and 10 minutes into the movie and ends at 1 hour and 15
minutes. During this analysis I will be observing how mise en scene, camera, editing and
sound are employed to entice the audience into the elements of the horror genre.

Mise en scene:

Mise en scene is illustrated impressively through

demonstrating the contrast between safety and danger.
Lighting is used at the beginning of the scene as the
girl opens the door, which is her route to safety. As the
door opens the blind man is immersed in a spotlight of
bright sunshine. This allows the audience finally to see
the blind man in his entirety, looking vicious yet weak, as his victim has a new advantage
of seeing and escaping. The lighting also displays a direct contrast between the inside
and outside. The lighting in the interior of the house is dark and engulfing, which has
connotations of feeling trapped and victimised. However, on the outside, natural light is
used, which is a representation of safety, a horror cliché of ‘the light at the end of the
tunnel’. We, as the audience now believe that Rocky is on the road to safety and will be
crowned the heroine. The lighting is then used ironically as the audience are given a
false sense of ‘happy ending’, a typical convention of the horror genre. Within seconds
we, with Rocky, are plunged back into the reality of fear, as even outside the home,
Rocky is not safe.

The setting and location of the scene is a deserted street, which is typically used in
horror movies as it creates a sense of isolation and lack of help.
The surrounding area is unkempt and abandoned, much like our
protagonist. The grass is neglected, houses are boarded up and
the warehouse is covered in graffiti. All of which creates a
chaotic atmosphere to the scene. As the scene progresses we are
once again fooled into feeling safe with the interior of the
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getaway car. This is then impaired by the appearance of the dog, which heightens the
tension of the scene. This highlights a contrast from previous scenes where Rocky has
been trapped in the house. Once again she is trapped but wants to be trapped, as this is
her safest option. The fact that Rocky uses the boot in order to trap the dog gives a
strong sense of irony, as it links to her childhood, reminding the audience of her
motives for robbing the house and allowing us to feel empathy for her.

Costume, facial expression and body language

complement each other well in this scene to express the
intensity of the scene and also enlighten the audience
about the previous events. In full light we now see the
visual effect of violence that has occurred. Through the
use of realistic make up we see the aftermath of the
constant battle between her and the blind man. She is
bruised and cut; her clothes are ripped and add a sense
of vulnerability.

Camera & Editing

Both the camera and editing reinforce the intensity of the scene. Firstly, through the
use of slow motion when Rocky opens the door and is running to escape from the house.
This editing technique is used to slow down the action and increase the emotional
effect, which is complimented by her slow, heavy breathing. I can relate to this as an
audience member as it reminds me of my nightmare experiences. That feeling of
wanting to get away from the danger quickly but everything is happening slowly. This is
a deliberate choice used in horror movies. The remainder of the scene uses fast-paced
editing, shot-reverse shot and quick, close up shots. This increases the tension, pace
and action, which has an impact on the audience’s heart rate also. I really like the use
of shot reverse shot throughout this scene between the dog and Rocky. It shows how
they compete for power and have the same aims though animal v’s human… they need to
defeat the other. Usually, guide dogs are caring companions, placid and not a threat.
The camera and editing in this scene however confirms that the
dog is trained to be violent and brutal, reinforced by the close
ups of his most deadly weapon… his teeth. The director cleverly
aims the camera with the point of view of Rocky and makes the
audience feels as though they are experiencing this fearful
situation. Finally the scene ends with a soft focus shot. This is
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when the use of a special lens or filter creates a hazy
light and in this scene emphasises the confusion and
concussion that Rocky
is experiencing after
being knocked out by
the blind man. The
scene ends with a high
angle shot of Rocky being dragged away from the
camera and audience, giving the impression that she
can no longer be saved and mirroring the very
beginning of the movie with the blind man’s first
victim.

Sound

Sound is used in horror movies to create a sense of realism and build suspense and
tension. Throughout this scene there is an amalgamation of diegetic and non-diegetic
sounds that create a tense ambience. Diegetic sound is used effectively in this scene
through; Rocky’s heavy breathing, footsteps, the dogs breathing, growling, barks, the
opening and shutting of the car door/ boot, Rocky’s screams, the blind man’s punch and
finally the dragging of her unconscious body along the road. These sounds work
together to make the audience feel entrenched in the action of the scene. Dialogue is
rarely used but effective when heard. Rocky’s statement of “you’re worthless out here”
directed towards the blind man, gives her a sense of empowerment, which is
immediately removed by the unleashing of the dog.

The non-diegetic sound is parallel to the scene. It makes the audience feel
uncomfortable with the instrumental and high pitched humming reminding us of the
buzzing of bees, a connotation of warning and danger. Drums are used to mimic the
sound of a heartbeat, which heightens the level of anxiety. Parts of the scene are quiet
when the threat is not seen but builds to a crescendo when the threat is near. The
silence gives a false sense of security and the sudden contrast makes us jump,
something all good horror movies should do.