Analysis of a chosen scene

 Task 

1. List the Media Language (mise-en-scene, editing, Cinematography etc.) that constructs meaning in the scene

2. Identify the preferred reading and the dominant ideology of the scene (e.g. 'a deliberately confusing and distressing ideology that positions the audience uncomfortably')

3. Identify the possible negotiated readings and oppositional reading- how is the audience being positioned? 

Claire's reaction to Camille returning (11:45- 14:40)

  • The scene starts with the frame focusing on the back of Claire's head, after seeing Camille in her house. This is a hermeneutic code as the audience are left to wonder what Claire's reaction is. The suspense is further anchored through the hallow unsettling music. 
  • There are various moments within this scene where Claire changes her pace dramatically in seconds which may position the audience in an unnerving situation. As they feel alert and placed in a way through the cinematography as if they are there. Some of the scenes I want to point out is: 
    • Claire Frantically turning her head after  Camille leaves the Kitchen places the audience in an alert mode of address. Indicates as well that something may be wrong (hermeneutic code). This opposes to her slowly taking up the stairs as if she is warier. The angle of the camera is at a high angle and makes Claire look smaller which may mean that she is weaker? 
    • Claire rapidly blows out the Candles and moves things around in the room. However, when she is approaching Camille she moves slowly again as if she fearful of Camille. Which reject dominant ideology, a parent being scared of their own child. As well it could suggest she is held back by the situation and don't know how to act. 
    • After she gives Camille the bathrobe she slowly walks back from the door, the slow pace and the long duration of the shot makes the scene more thrilling. Her emotionless face of shock strengthens this. 
  • Claire in this scene breathes very loudly, this reflects that she is having a panic attack. This reinforced through the mise-en-scene of the dim lighting, in the corridor she is literally in a dark place. It also foreshadows her emotions, the heart-beat like audio further reinforces the panic attack. This positions the audience in an uncomfortable situation. The narrowness of the corridor is claustrophobic, there is no room for breathing. Which makes the audience feel overwhelmed as well as the Claire. 
  • There is a close up on Claire's face which is used to show the fear on her face, her not blinking further anchors this frightful emotion. 
  • Claire calls two people and gets to different interactions which can foreshadow their relationship. She calls Pierre which goes straight to voicemail, this shows that he prioritises the meeting over her. She then calls her ex-husband, he answers the call which is quite unusual as you wouldn't expect him to answer. When she speaks to him she has a softer look and is more comfortable as well as being tearing. This can suggest although they are separated they have a good platonic relationship. 
  • The complicated relationship between the parents and Pierre and more may create an oppositional reading as they aren't showing the nuclear family type with one mum and dad. It is more complex and there are many complicated feelings. 
  • Camille acting more normal is a binary opposition to how claire is acting creates a disturbing feeling as Camille is completely unaware of her possible death. However, the audience knowing this positions them in a distressing situation. 

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