What does the term "mise-en-scène" refer to in film?

The term "mise-en-scène" refers specifically to the arrangement of everything that appears in the frame of a film, which includes elements such as sets, props, actors, lighting, and costumes. It encompasses how these components are visually organized within a scene, reflecting the film's aesthetic and contributing to its overall meaning and tone.

This concept is crucial in film analysis because it determines how the audience perceives the narrative and characters. The way in which actors are positioned, the choice of location, and the movement within the scene all work together to create a particular atmosphere and can significantly influence the viewer's emotional response. Therefore, understanding mise-en-scène is essential for appreciating the craft of filmmaking, as it reveals how visual storytelling deepens the narrative beyond just the dialogue or plot structure.