Mise En Scene

Movie: Edward Scissorhands


 
  • The time of day is night time and its late, we know this because of the darkness, streetlights in the scene and how the lighting creates a shadow of Edward. The setting is a Suburban neighborhood. We can see this by the sort of organization of the house and how it's one specific color and the lawn as it is neat with grass that sort of looks “artificial”. This overall theme is regulated throughout the whole movie, each house has one specific color and a coordinated car.


  • The streetlights provide a cool, bluish light, casting long shadows. This creates a sense of foreboding and mystery as well as a "scary" or "threatening" look for Edward which contributes to the feelings of the other characters as well as the audience. There seems to be some filling light coming from the house windows, but it's minimal, emphasizing the darkness outside. The backlight is subtle, highlighting the edges of objects and creating a slight halo effect. 


  • The scene is dominated by cool colors - blues, purples, and greens, which reinforce the nighttime setting and the overall mood of isolation and otherness. 

  • The scene is framed in a medium shot, focusing on Edward and the two police officers. This framing emphasizes the power dynamic between Edward and the authorities. 

  • The depth of field is shallow, with Edward in sharp focus and the background slightly blurred. This draws attention to Edward and his isolation. 


  • The camera is positioned at eye level with Edward, creating a sense of intimacy and allowing us to see his vulnerability. The presence of the police car signifies authority and control, contrasting with Edward's outsider status. His Scissorhands are a prominent feature, emphasizing his difference and the danger he poses to others and also the concerning or fearful presence he may hold over others

The mise en scene of this scene creates a sense of isolation, mystery, and tension. The dark, cool colors, the stark lighting, and the framing all contribute to this atmosphere. Edward's figure stands out against the background, highlighting his otherness and the potential threat he represents. 

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