Mise-en-Scene Analysis

1. Framing and camera angles are extensively used in the analysis of American Beauty, primarily to characterise the changing dynamic in the interaction between Lester and his new boss. In the original scene analyzed, this interaction is slated to favor the new boss, with high angle shots of Lester, as well as very large amounts of headroom and additional space surrounding his character. This serves to frame Lester in a submissive attitude, which is ultimately a successful endeavour. Lester seems small, insignificant, and lost. The scenery and shot composition is also analyzed briefly, to determine that having drab office components ultimately result in the appearance of an unenthusiastic workplace. Additionally, the aspects of the boss’s desk reveal a conformist mindset, as well as an oppressive leadership. Even Lester’s body position and clothes are analyzed, ultimately to show Lester is the submissive individual.

2. Next, similar detailed analysis of framing and camera angles from the initial scene is applied to a later scene in the movie. Here, Lester has taken more or less control of his life and has become dominant in his interactions with his boss. This ultimately forms the appearance that Lester has overcome the conformity and oppression. He has refused to remain a static worker at his job; he has ambition, drive, and passion. Ironically, these are probably the traits the new boss had wanted Lester to adopt, but when Lester finally accepts his status, he decides to quit his employment. This meaning is entirely derived from the changing dynamic of the interaction.

3. A similar analysis can be performed on the “desk” scene of the first Matrix movie.Neo seems very small and insignificant in comparison to the Agents, primarily due to the framing involved in the scene. The majority of the time Neo spends on the ground, running from the Agents. This naturally creates a dynamic in which Neo is a submissive character, the agents are frames in a low angle, empowering shot, while Neo is looked upon by a high-angle shot. Similarly to the initial scene of American Beauty, Neo and the Agents are involved in a difficult dynamic: Neo is Lester, the Agents are the new boss.