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In our previous video,
we discussed mise en scene
and the various elements that make up the big picture.
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Today, we're going to look at one of the most immediate
and powerful elements in mise en scene.
Color.
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A single change in color
can shift the meaning completely.
And in Stanley Kubrick's movies,
Color is King.
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As we move through the color spectrum,
consider the role, these colors play
in Kubrick's visual storytelling.
So, how important is color
and how does a master like Kubrick wield it?
This is "Color and Kubrick".
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don't forget to subscribe and enable notifications.
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Where can we find color in mise en scene?
The four main areas are:
Sets and Location.
Props.
Costume.
Hair.
Makeup.
And Lighting.
"- Things could be better, Lloyd."
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In Kubrick's mise en scene
you'll find color in all of these elements.
In some cases,
color dominates the mise en scene
and in others, it might play a supporting role.
"- So what color cloak?
Red, brown, red?"
Let's take a look at the myriad of ways he does it.
Starting with Red.
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Red is everywhere in Kubrick's work.
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You will find it often
in moments where threat or danger is imminent.
"- I'm afraid, Dave."
Or in scenes of emotional intensity.
"- He is a very wonderful boy."
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Orange.
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Orange becomes a destructive color.
From brooding candle light
to fire and flame.
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♪ Yellow. ♪
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We can find yellow and gold
used for opulent, grandiose.
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Or as a way to isolate characters from the background.
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"-Excuse me, ladies."
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"- Private Joker, why did you join my beloved Corps?
-Sir, to kill, sir!
- So, you're a killer! - Sir, yes, sir!"
- Let me see your war face.
You don't scare me, work on it.
- Sir, yes, sir."
Green.
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Kubrick uses green as a natural color.
As symbols for life.
And death.
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Blue.
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Kubrick isn't the only filmmaker to use blue
as exaggerated moonlight.
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But he does add a layer of sin
and guilt.
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Purple.
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For Kubrick,
purple can be temptation.
"- Do you suppose we should talk about money?
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- Do you have to go?
- Do I have to go?
I think I do.
- Are you sure?"
White.
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Kubrick often uses white for contrast.
Either to allow other colors to pop.
"- Great party, isn't it?"
Or to complicate our associations with white
as a symbol of purity.
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"- Hi-hi-hi there."
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Of all the elements of mise en scene
color plays a major role.
Which color to use?
How saturated or desaturated?
How will the colors work in combination?
Color theory isn't set in stone.
What each color means is subjective.
But we can all agree that colors mean something.
Close your eyes and imagine a powerful scene.
"- My mind is going."
An emotional scene.
Or a romantic scene.
What colors do you see?
Create a mood board for inspiration.
Bring color into your storyboards.
StudioBinder was designed to facilitate this process.
Make the use of color in your next project a priority.
In the next episode of our series on mise en scene,
we'll look at the role of set design and location.
And how Tim Burton conjures up entire worlds.
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Until next time.
Have a colorful day.
"- This conversation can serve no purpose anymore.
Goodbye."
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