Mise-en-Scene

Definition

Mise-en-scene: A French phrase used by theatre directors that means 'putting into the scene'. Mise-en-scene includes set Design, props, costume, makeup, staging (blocking) and lighting. 

Example - Shadow (2018)

Mise-en-scene

2 character stands on 2 sides of yin yang (creates the contrast and showcase the difference between the 2 characters) - a clear example of binary opposite according to Straussian theory

• The dark side represents the weak
• He looks torn out, his clothes are torn up and generally looks weak - according to Barthes's theory, he might be poor
• Look particularly older
• He is holding a stick with a bended knee - connotates that he is unable to stand by himself and needs help 
• The outfit color is also black which complements the side of yin yang he is standing on
• The character's facial expression is scary - bringing a mysterious vibe to it
• The white side represents the strong
• The character wears a normal outfit in white but not torn out like the other character - Straussian theory of binary opposition
• Based on the outfit, he also looks younger and probably wealthier
• He is standing up straight with an umbrella in hand, which emphasizes that he is strong and able to care for himself
• His facial expression is normal and generally looks smart

Lighting

• The photo has generally low-key lighting with a few highlights on the white color part of it
• Since it is low-key lighting, the part of the photo with white stands out and contrasts with other parts of the photo, therefore attracting the audience

Camera

• The poster is taken in a wide shot, capturing fully the 2 characters' outfit and their surroundings
• However, due to the low-key lighting, the background is very hard to identify

Typography

• A big calligraphy of Chinese letters stands in the middle - punctuating the theme of the photo, a Chinese-related one
• The word 'shadow' is colored in red, standing out from all the monochromatic colors