Putting on Stage

     You probably have heard of mise en scene without even knowing what it is. As soon as I read what it actually was, it all made sense. I had no idea there was a word that described the props, scenery, and overall set of a film. Mise en scene is the arrangement of the scenery, props, etc. on the stage of a theatrical production. This factor in a film makes the film feel real. It takes time to think about where exactly things should be on a set. For example, where should a hairbrush should go when portraying a teenager girl's room? It could go on the dresser because that's where she does her hair. It could go in the bathroom because she has to brush her hair after a shower. It could go on the floor because this girl is actually a mess. Something as small as a hairbrush needs to be placed perfectly for the scene to flow.  

    There are four components to mise en scene. They are setting, lighting, composition, and character. Each of these components takes much time to set up and perfect. The production designer makes the decisions about the setting. A story can unfold in two different locations, but the location could change the plot. Filming outside can lead to potential unplanned weather conditions. Overall, the production designer decides where the best place to film is (with input of course). The cinematographer and lighting department are in charge of the lighting. If the setting is made up by a green screen, then the lighting department has to get to work. Filming would be taking place inside when using a green screen. In this case, the lighting from the background will not change much. Therefore, if they shoot in the same place, they just have to adjust the lights to the setting being portrayed on the green screen. However, if the setting is outside or somewhere light adjusts due to the time of day, then there are many other steps to achieving the perfect lighting. 

    Composition refers to the way people, objects, and the setting are arranged in the film. This is also the job of the cinematographer. They use the rule of thirds often to align the image and make sure everything is where it looks best. Ever wonder why one actor is closer to the camera than the other actor? That's because the cinematographer said the composition looks best like that. Lastly, character refers to the ability to make up a character who can conform to a narrative structure. Costume, hair, and makeup all go into this category. Each of these aspects is thought about long and hard. The directors want the movie to exhibit a realistic plot line for these characters. However, they can't do that if just one thing is off. It's not about what looks good on a character, but looks right on a character. Everything must fall into place.

I have attached a video that explains in more depth of what mise en scene is all about! It explains all of the options these designers, cinematographers, and directors have when making decisions about the mise en scene. It is very informative and even shows clips from some movies you probably have seen before!