In this scene of the film Bright Star, by Jane Campion, the two main characters, Fanny Brawne and John Keats are locked in a passionate kiss. Not only is the couple caught up in this passionate kiss, but their hands are entwined and her left hand is stroking his hair, which symbolizes just how into one another they are. The lighting is low-key and dramatic but natural at the same time, and it exudes the passion of the scene.
In this close up shot, you can clearly see how this couple feels for one another. They have gone from a flirtatious relationship to true love, all under the noses of those around them who do not approve of the relationship. His friend and colleague is jealous of not only John, but John’s relationship with Fanny. Her family feels he has “no living and no income”, therefore they cannot be married. They are, however, at the time of this scene, secretly engaged. The secrecy of their relationship adds to the passionate aspect which is portrayed in this scene.
The camera angle is mostly eye level, though there is somewhat of a low-angle shot, because the viewer’s eye does look up to Fanny Brawne, illustrating that she is the stronger character in this relationship with John Keats.
In this close up shot, you can clearly see how this couple feels for one another. They have gone from a flirtatious relationship to true love, all under the noses of those around them who do not approve of the relationship. His friend and colleague is jealous of not only John, but John’s relationship with Fanny. Her family feels he has “no living and no income”, therefore they cannot be married. They are, however, at the time of this scene, secretly engaged. The secrecy of their relationship adds to the passionate aspect which is portrayed in this scene.
The camera angle is mostly eye level, though there is somewhat of a low-angle shot, because the viewer’s eye does look up to Fanny Brawne, illustrating that she is the stronger character in this relationship with John Keats.
Luis,
ReplyDeleteI think the lighting in this scene was perfect for what the director was trying to show. If he had used the "halo-effect" to show their passion, it would have cheapened this pure and romantic moment between the two characters. By keeping the lighting low key, I agree with you that it makes the scene more "realistic" and believable for the audience.
Technically, I think this shot is a medium shot and not a close-up, but I understand what you were trying to say. The medium shot allows the characters to "do" more in the scene; therefore the audience sees more action. In this example, we are able to see their hands entwined. A close-up would have cut this intimate detail out. Yet, this shot still allows us to see details on their faces that give insight into what the characters are feeling asa close-up shot would do.
Great job on your analysis!
--Kelly Phillpott