Mise - en - scene element 2

 Mise-en-scene element 2 

Week 4, Blog 3 

Thursday, February 20th, 2025

Based on our conversations and planning,  my partners and I have planned some of the mise-en-scene elements we want to include, in this post, I will discuss the most important set prop, Maddie's diary. 

What is mise-en-scene? 

"Mise en scène is the arrangement of scenery and stage properties in a play. Translated from French, it means "setting the stage" but, in film analysis, the term mise en scene refers to everything in front of the camera, including the set design, lighting, and actors. Mise en scene in film is the overall effect of how it all comes together for the audience." 

Why journaling and its importance? 

Based on the information gathered, journaling can offer the following advantages: reducing stress and anxiety, increasing self-awareness, improving emotional processing, encouraging introspection, gaining clarity on thoughts and feelings, reaching goals by monitoring progress, increasing creativity, improving writing abilities, and offering a space to process trauma or challenging experiences.

Symbolic representation of the journal/diary as a mise-en-scene prop

Symbolic Representation

The diary represents Maddie's thoughts, feelings, and emotions, providing a window into her inner world. Writing in her diary allows Maddie to express herself, process her emotions, and communicate with her inner self.

Narrative Function

The diary reveals Maddie's personality, values, and backstory, helping the audience understand her motivations and actions. The diary may contain clues, secrets, or revelations that advance the plot and create tension or conflict.

Emotional Resonance

The diary creates a sense of intimacy between Maddie and the audience, allowing us to experience her innermost thoughts and feelings. The diary provides insight into Maddie's struggles, making it easier to empathize with her and become invested in her story.

Visual Storytelling

The diary can become a visual motif, appearing in key scenes to represent Maddie's emotional state or symbolize her growth. The diary's design, layout, and contents can provide clues about Maddie's personality, interests, and background.

Sources 

• STUDIOBINDER. (2020, September 13). What is Mise en Scène in Film: Definition and Examples. StudioBinder. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/mise-en-scene/

• University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. (2020, December 30). 10 Ways Journaling Benefits Students. University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. https://www.usa.edu/blog/ways-journaling-benefits-students/

Sources Images 

• What Is Mise en Scène in Film? - 2024 - MasterClass. (2020). MasterClass. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mise-en-scene-in-film

• Benefits of writing for depression, anxiety, and stress. (n.d.). Calmer. https://www.thisiscalmer.com/blog/benefits-of-writing-for-depression-anxiety-stress