Set Design

 Another mise-en-scene element I want to focus on during my film opening is set design. Set design can act as a more subtle way to develop the character though environmental storytelling and symbolic representations. In my previous post, I mentioned writing in favor of a 'show, don't tell' philosophy, hoping to naturally build my protagonist (Ryan). To do so, using the set is a crucial way to provide information without explicitly stating it. In this post, I'll be discussing key elements in set design.

• Color

• 
  Color is an often overlooked tool that helps subtly establish a mood. According to Esther C., "color palettes can evoke specific moods and enhance the overall them of the production" (Esther, 2024). For example, a predominantly white environment can represent sterility, which may be seen in a hospital or someplace unnaturally sanitary (eerily utopian). 
  
• In my film opening, I intend on using more muted colors to show the monotony of Ryan's life. As he spends all his research and effort towards fighting his disease, he doesn't get the chance to experience the more exciting parts of life. The muted environment would be symbolic of Ryan himself, who is forced to dedicate everything towards weightlifting. 

• Themes & Concepts

• The usage of "visual motifs and symbolism" can also help develop the setting and characters (Esther, 2024). To designers with more budget and resources, this could include the texture and pattern of a wallpaper, for example. Of course, I don't have that budget.
• One concept that I would establish through set design is Ryan's studies as a medical student. To help with his research, his room would be filled with diagrams and sketches - visual representations of his thoughts. Not only would this indicate that he is a medical student, but the set would help show the level of effort Ryan has dedicated towards fighting the disease. 

That's all for now! Tune in for the next post. 

References

C., E. (2024, August 28). Beginners Guide to Set Design. Tutti.space. https://www.tutti.space/blog/beginners-guide-to-set-design

Lackey, R. (2016, October 21). 5 common film color schemes - cinematic color design. CineD. https://www.cined.com/film-color-schemes-cinematic-color-design/