The opening of the Phantom of the Opera is film noir, with
the characters being partially lit to create mystery in the scene. This gives a
sense of secrecy between the characters and the set and entices the viewer to
want to know more about the history behind the film. The characters remain
partially lit until the chandelier is lifted to light up the entire set. The
chandelier signifies the change from film noir into colour, this gives the feel
like the history has been revealed and a burden has been lifted from the
characters through the use of light.
The use of dust and
cobwebs throughout the set signifies the past as it gives the impression as if
the set has been abandoned. This adds to the effect that the set is in disrepair
with the use of debris. This gives the sense that destruction or disasters have
happened here. This is parallel with the lighting as it shows a mystery between
the set and characters and entices the viewer to find out more. With the use of
props and lighting for effect it sets the baseline for what the viewers should
expect to see in the following scene.
The costumes used for the actors during the entering of the
building are made to give the characters a sophisticated look; this gives the
idea of hierarchy between the different classes of people around the street. The
majority of actors in the street are dressed in the “sophisticated” look which
gives the audience the idea that this is a wealthy area and that the opera is
for high class people. The “sophisticated” look is achieved by the use of high
class suits and dresses; this is the general stereotype for high class people.
The use of red and gold in the theatre has the conventions
of power and fame and gives the set an important feel. The use of gold could
symbolise the class of people who would attend the theatre, of which gives the
viewer the idea of what the high class people of that era liked to do as
activities. The use of red could symbolise importance, for instance the seats
are red and could represent a modern VIP feel like a red carpet at theatres for
celebrities. The colour red could also be interpreted as blood, which links in
to the use of debris earlier on and show the fact that a disaster could have
occurred and still lives in the history of the theatre.
The use of narrow shots through the set behind the stage,
alongside the volume of actors gives the viewer the feel of hustle and bustle.
This helps to explain the rush for everyone to get ready for the performance,
and how important the play is to the actors.
Overall mise en scene plays an important role in the film,
by using different techniques such as specific camera shots, colours, costumes,
props etc. These different techniques help to tell the story of the film and
help give the audience an authentic feel into the life of the characters in
this time period.
