Cinematography

The use of an eye level shot causes the scene to become more immersive as the audience feels like they’re sat across the table from Spud and Renton. The angle also allowed a clear view of Spud and Renton as well as the characters in the background which could be used as foreshadowing to the chaos that will soon occur there. This tells the audience that they shouldn’t be focused on only Spud and Renton.

Mise en Scene

The darker lighting and shadows in this scene highlights Tommy’s ongoing downfall as his addiction increases. The use of a small spotlight above Tommy could also reflect how he used to be a sign of hope in the friend group, as he was the only one who wasn’t addicted to drugs and how he used to be in the spotlight due to his spotting achievements but due to his addiction he has fallen out of it. The use of the shadows and lighting makes viewers feel melancholy and pitiful towards Tommy.

Sound

In this scene when Renton goes down the toilet there is music playing which acts as an oxymoron for the scene as the music is very tranquil whereas in reality Renton is feeling stressed as he has lost his drugs down the toilet. The effect of this send the audience to a false sense of security as due to the sound they feel more relaxed but the storyline is no less calm.

Editing

Throughout the film, scenes are split by small montages of the city (either Edinburgh or London). These act like a break from the fast paced film which could also symbolise the come down after a hit and then afterwards taking another one.