Citizen Kane

I chose do write about mise-en-scene. The aspects of setting, lighting, and costume and makeup are wonderful. The setting of the movie contributes so much to the story. Kane’s house is one of the main important settings. It is so grand and luxiorious. All of the valuables inside and things just help show his wealth. I did not fully realize just how big the house was until parts like where Kane is standing in the fireplace, or when they crane over all of Kane’s possessions after his death. The setting of the story really helped set up the characters and show their social status. Costume and make-up were also very significant. The clothing helped show the people’s social classes. The make-up was used well to show how people felt, like when Susan is in bed after she had tried to commit suicide, she looked so much different and so sick. The make-up helped show how she felt. Lastly, lighting was used in ways to help tell the story. For example, low- key lighting is often used. The contrast in using low-key lighting helps point out specific traits of characters and how they handle situations. Overall, I think all the aspects of mise-en-scene were used well to add that something special to the movie.