Mies-En-Scene is a term referred to every element in a frame that makes up a scene, such as the costumes, makeup, set design, props and lighting just to name a few of the key features. In this essay I will be depicting Wes Anderson’s ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ because I believe it beautifully holds all the aspects of mise-en-scene.

Firstly, I will be speaking about how Margot Tennenbaum (played by Gwyneth Paltrow) has been presented. Throughout the film Margot is seen to be wearing the same clothes as she was when she was a child; a polo dress and a long fur coat to represent her wealthy status as a Royal. However; you could infer her style does not change because her character has not yet grown up due to unrequited love from her father. Furthermore; she is always wearing black eye makeup which suggests her secretive and enigmatic personality.

Anderson uses bright and warm colours to fit the aspect of comedy and light heartedness of the movie, however there is a shift in tone when Richie attempts to commit suicide. The colour turns more blue and the lighting darkerens creating a gloomy atmosphere to fit the mood. Throughout the film Richie is seen to be wearing sunglasses and a sweatband, this might be a way to hide the issues he is too afraid to face, however in this scene he takes them off because he is trying the resolve these issues through suicide.

Next, this scene is a perfect example of mise-en-scene. It shows Chas (played by Ben Stiller) and his two sons shaving. Chas is in the centre of the frame with his two sons mirroring him, almost like a reflection. In the movie Chas becomes an overprotective father due to the accidental death of his wife and this scene hints at his controlling tendencies.

Mise en Scene in a film of your choice.

When Obi-Wan is saying farewell to Anakin before he leaves to fight General Grievous, Anakin is in the shadows whilst Obi-Wan stands in the sunlight, already showing that Anakin’s transition to the dark side has begun.