Saturday 1 October 2011

Batman (1989 By Tim Burton) Analysis

Mise en scene/ Lighting



The typical stereotypes in this film are made very clear by their appearances. The Joker for instance stands out particularly from his unique make up design. His pale face is in great contrast to his bright red smiling lips emphasise the black humour that masks his personality.


Batman and The Joker
The Batman's costume is a dark black, however this is a colour which usually represents death and fear. He is different from other typical superheroes which usually dress in bright colours to make them stand out from the crowd. The Batman is different. His ability to hide in the shadows gives him the empowering edge over his enemies. This advantage is handy, but his dark design does not aid his reputation with the public.

Others such as the typical blonde stereotype Vicki Vale , played by Kim Basinger. Her figure is a highly seductive one and the clothes she wears, be it a dress or tight pencil skirt, her feminine figure is always emphasises by the innocent colours, i.e. the white dress during the end of the movie which symbolises peace and connotes the presence of an angel, which is in great contrast to the dark, gloomy scenery. 





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiAonyJIV_A


The scene where the joker is unmasked similar to the scene of Frankenstien and the mad scientist where the monster is created. This surely is one of Jokers darkest scenes, and the hard, low key lighting emphasises the effect of the escalating non-diegetic soundtrack. A scene like this would be perfect for the ending, or middle of a trailer to break the tension or create a sense of mystery. 


The lighting in Gotham City is very low key and hence many shadows are created. Most of the colour is sucked out of the city, and emotions are drained. The dull greys and browns deter any sign of happiness. 

Camera Angle/ Movement


Due to the technology available at the time, the director relied heavily on certain camera angles to give the main protagonist and antagonist a sense of power and authority. A low angle shot would mean they are much more powerful and vice verca with a high angle shot. This would be the reason the females are shot from a high angle shot to give the impression that they are being looked down upon due to them having less control of the situations. 


However, in the scene of Bruce talking to Alfred, Bruce is shot from a high angle shot and this highlights his sense of confusion and emphasises the fact that Alfred is much wiser. Joker is constantly shot from a low angle shot, especially when he has his goons around him. However, when he is alone and out of his comfort zone, such as during the fight between him and Batman then the angle changes. 


The use of whip pans are used commonly within the old action/ thrillers. This cheap effect would be used to create a cause of urgency and can easily be done with our equipment. 

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