I’m so excited to start term 2! George’s lesson on analyzing the mise-en-scène was really enjoyable. we discovered how elements like settings, props, and character design work together to help the narrative. Moreover, I gained insight into previs and its significance in the film industry. The role of previs in planning performances and camera placements to make scenes filmable and elevate storytelling is truly remarkable.
For practice, I decided to study “Monsters University” mise-en-scène. Analyzing the mise-en-scène in “Monsters University” involves examining how different elements are organized and designed to convey meaning and elicit specific reactions from the audience. Here is a detailed breakdown based on the provided information:
Settings & Props
- Setting: The film predominantly unfolds on a university campus, featuring various settings like classrooms, dorms, and Scare Games arenas. This backdrop plays a vital role in establishing the academic and competitive tone of the narrative.
- Props: Props such as textbooks, scare equipment, and team banners serve to reinforce the university setting and highlight the significance of the Scare Program. These objects contribute to setting up the challenges and ambitions of the characters.
Costume, Hair & Make Up
- Costume: Characters don university-themed outfits like varsity jackets, team uniforms, and casual student clothing. These costumes help distinguish between different monster groups and their affiliations within the university.
- Hair & Make-Up: In the case of animated characters, this pertains to their visual design and textures. The varied appearances of monsters, including fur, scales, and colours, are utilized to communicate their personalities and roles in the narrative.
Facial Expressions & Body Language
- Facial Expressions: The characters’ faces are highly emotive, effectively conveying their feelings. For instance, Mike’s determined and enthusiastic expressions contrast with Sulley’s initially relaxed and self-assured demeanour.
- Body Language: The characters’ body language complements their personalities and emotions. Mike’s lively movements and Sulley’s more laid-back posture reflect their distinct outlooks on university life and individual aspirations.
Colour/Lighting
- Colour: “Monsters University” employs a vibrant and dynamic colour scheme to capture the youthful energy of college life. The use of colours shifts to match the mood of scenes, with darker tones during tense or competitive moments.
- Lighting: Lighting is utilized to set the mood and draw attention. Bright, well-lit scenes depict the lively university atmosphere, while dimmer, more dramatic lighting adds tension during the Scare Games.
Positioning of Characters/Objects within the Frame
- Framing: The film utilizes the rule of thirds and the golden ratio to create visually pleasing compositions. Characters are strategically positioned to direct the audience’s focus to significant actions or emotions.
- Positioning: The placement of characters within the frame helps establish relationships and dynamics. For instance, Mike and Sulley are often positioned together but with space between them to symbolize their initial rivalry and eventual partnership.
World Building
- Establishing the World: The university setting is meticulously designed to resemble real college environments, infused with monster-specific elements. This includes architecture and the organization of the Scare Games.
- Era and Style: The setting has a contemporary feel with a fantastical twist suitable for a world of monsters. The design elements are modern yet whimsical, aligning with the film’s tone and target audience.
- Governance: The university’s rules and structure, including the significance of the Scare Program and the hierarchical nature of the monster society, provide context for the characters’ motivations and conflicts.
Character Creation
- Character Design: Characters are uniquely designed to reflect their personalities. For example, Mike’s small, round shape and large eye convey his underdog status and intense focus, while Sulley’s large, imposing figure reflects his natural talent and confidence.
- Character Interaction: The interactions and responses of characters are pivotal in depicting their perseverance and evolving relationships. Mike’s determination and Sulley’s gradual realization of the value of hard work are showcased through their interactions.
Shot Composition
- Defining Scenes: Various shots and angles are used to convey the narrative. Wide shots establish the campus setting, while close-ups convey the characters’ emotions and reactions.
- Emotion and State: Changes in shot composition mirror the characters’ emotions and states. For instance, low-angle shots of Sulley enhance his intimidating presence, while high-angle shots of Mike emphasize his struggles and determination.
For next week I’ll be working on three different ideas for my previs.