BLK Homework 1: Film Still + Evaluation

This is an image I have selected to write about from a collection of test shots we took with our group. The genre we chose for this shot was Horror. I think the shot represents the genre very well as it follows several horror conventions. The shot is a Medium Close-Up, Over the Shoulder shot (MCU OTS).

In order to create the ‘horror effect’, we thought carefully about the position of the character and how the light would illuminate his face. From studying still shots we knew that lighting, framing and mise-en-scene were important factors in creating a successful horror shot.

Body Language

The actor (me) is hiding behind a tree to create a sense of ‘creepiness’ and mystery. It creates enigma as the audience wonders – “who is he watching”? It is clear that the character is not a victim but a villain due to his expression looking ahead at someone and his body language, with his back to the tree so as to not be seen. To achieve this I was positioned behind the tree looking past the camera, which was placed to the side.

High Contrast Lighting & Use of Shadows

Another convention this shot follows is the use of lighting to induce suspense. In this shot there is high contrast between light and dark tones. Half of the character’s face is in shadow which suggests a ‘second personality’ or that he is hiding something. The lighting effect was much harder to achieve as we had to experiment with different positions and camera angles.

Camera Focus & Position

The camera’s focus is on the tree, which is also partly in shadow and its rough contrasted surface adds to the horror effect. This also helps make the character seem hidden as the tree takes up most of the shot. The position of the camera also creates dramatic irony as we, the audience, know that the villain is hiding there and watching someone, but the victim doesn’t and is likely to be in danger very soon.

Overall I think the shot was successful as it is very creepy and enigmatic. However if we were to retake this shot, I would consider a different location because the white windows in the background are slightly distracting. Despite this I think we have portrayed the theme and our intended effect quite well.