Mise-en-scene and Iconography!

Mise-En-Scene:

Mise-en-scene is french term meaning what is put into a scene or frame which shows the audience essential information. It is also made up of 5 elements.

The 5 Elements:

Each aspect of mise-en-scene has hidden meanings within a film and sends signals to the audience on how we are supposed to feel at a certain point. This is done by using 5 elements which are:

• Settings and props
• Costume, Hair and make-up
• Facial expressions and body language
• Lighting and colour
• Positioning of characters/Objects within the frame

Iconography:

In a specific genre of film we expect to see specific settings and props used. For example:

• Horror Films:

An example of a setting used in a horror film may be a old, dark and creepy house and they may use props such as masks (for the murderer), Weapons and blood etc.

• Sci-Fi: 

An example of a setting in a Sci-Fi film maybe in the future or on a different planet. In Sci-Fi films they use props such as high tech gadgets which dont see today in real life.

• Action:

An action film may be set in a huge city such as New york or london. They may use props such as expensive cars, guns and Helicopters etc.