A Quick & Easy to Understand Mise-en-Scene Definition
In filmmaking, Mise-en-Scene is a term that can frequently be used to describe the setting of a scene. In fact, you’ve probably heard the term Mise-en-Scene in filmmaking before and simply wondered, “What does that event mean?” As an aspiring filmmaker or someone new to filmmaking, you likely have interest in learning the mise-en-scene definition which can also help you to understand film setting in a more intricate manner. But what is the definition of mise-en-scene and what does it mean?
Mise-en-Scene Definition
Mise-en-Scene, which is pronounced meez-ahn-sen, is a term that is commonly used to discuss the arrangement of items in a film scene or on the film set.
The term is used a lot in filmmaking, but perpetual use of the word doesn’t appear to make it any less complicated to understand if you’re new and haven’t learned all the different film terms and their meanings.
It’s Not Easy
While this term may sound like it’s incredibly fancy, when we break down the mise-en-scene definition, we see that it’s really just a complicated way of saying: pay attention to detail by setting the stage. Okay, well really it’s not quite that simple, but close.
By definition, Mise-en-Scene references the arrangement of items in front of the camera, including items on stage and the scenery but may include everything from the set design and actors to the lighting. When all of these elements come together, the effect that they create is called mise-en-scene.
Mise-en-Scene Elements
Many different elements are responsible for the development of mise-en-scene or the visual presentation of a film. The French term for “placing on stage,” mise-en-scene represents the following elements that are placed on the stage or otherwise in front of the camera:
- Actors
- Location of the scene
- Set design including props
- Lighting
- Frame selection
- Depth of field or space
- Film grain or color of film stock
- Hair and makeup of actors
- Costumes
Who is Responsible for Mise-en-Scene?
You may not realize it, but several individuals are responsible all together for mise-en-scene. In fact, mise-en-scene, by definition, is not part of a single individual on the production crew. It’s not the responsibility of the director or the producer individually. It’s not the responsibility of each actor, either.
Mise-en-scene is the responsibility of several individuals that have their hands on the various elements listed above and may include:
- Hairdressing and makeup
- Gaffer
- Costume designers
- Prop master
- Location manager
- Cinematographer and camera crew
- VFX supervisor
- Production designer
- Actors and talent
Parts of a Whole
Together, each of the individuals that is responsible for what occurs in front of the camera plays a key part in mise-en-scene by definition. So, when you think of mise-en-scene, think of what you see on camera, and how various individuals working the film crew, production crew, and the stage have a part in the outcome – that’s mise-en-scene.
