Write a paper on the mise en scène in the opening scene from Laura (Preminger, 1944). What is the mise en scène communicating to the audience? Think about what kind of characters, world, and story are established through it, and what themes and meanings are implied. What has the mise en scène taught you about this story and these two people. Do not refer to the rest of the film. (In fact, do not watch the rest of the film until after you have written your paper.)

Scene Analysis Paper

Write a paper on the mise en scène in the opening scene from Laura (Preminger, 1944). What is the mise en scène communicating to the audience? Think about what kind of characters, world, and story are established through it, and what themes and meanings are implied. What has the mise en scène taught you about this story and these two people. Do not refer to the rest of the film. (In fact, do not watch the rest of the film until after you have written your paper.)

Remember mise en scène is everything in front of the camera – actors, costumes, props, sets, lights, and the arrangement of all of those elements both on set and within the frame. Do not discuss sound, editing, or narrative structure. But you may mention camera movements and positions if you desire. And you may refer to the dialogue to clarify who is who and what is going on.

The paper should be at least two pages long (about 550 words) but it can go longer. You do not have to mention everything in the scene (there’s a lot of stuff in there!) but try to include as much as you can. That said, be logical about what you leave in and out. For example, maybe just discuss the first shot or two, or just the last minute, or perhaps just focus on the actors and what’s going on with them.

Extra credit: after finishing the paper, watch the whole film and write a paragraph about how that changed or not how you see the opening scene.

Hand in a hard copy Thursday October 11th, and email an electronic copy. Double space, 12 point font, Times New Roman.