Mise - en - scene for our plotline / technological horror

Mise - en - scene for our plot line 

For our story line we decided to use a house rather than hotel rooms, this is because houses are much more practical and easier to obtain rather than book out rooms. Additionally, as we are filming our opening in a house we will especially focus on the aspect of mise en scene which includes props, lighting, camera angles/movement, locations, makeup and costumes.

Camera angles and movement
For the camera angles we have discussed using a variety of shots that are typically used in the horror genre. Moreover, the fact that our genre is technology horror, the camera angles may come from the computer or laptop point of view too.

• Close up shots
• Oblique/canted angle
• Point of view shot
• Eye level
• Medium shot (2/3 people)

Props
Props are used in order to create a realistic and true portrayal of the narrative/plot line. Typically in the horror genre, the use of props is extremely important. For instance, due to the technology side of the opening we must include some sort of electronic device such as laptop or phone.

• Since we will be filming the main parts in a bedroom, it is clear that background detail is vital. Shelves, books, magazines, make up and lamps may be used to demonstrate the personality and character of the girl/boy
• Typical young teenager items, messy bedroom, studying items, phone, tablets, TV
• For the killer, we may choose to use weapons such as knives/guns as these follow the typical code and conventions of a horror film
• We can also take into account the use of ropes, chains, tape and blindfolds which are used to scare, kill or kidnap the protagonist
• We will be using a mask for the killer - the 'unknown' 
• Some technological horror movies do not use props but instead kill the characters over the use of technology itself. This is presented well in the movie 'Unfriended' where the characters die one by one, without the appearance of an actual killer. 

Costumes/make up

• As our main protagonist will be young and in their teenage years, the types of clothing will be modern showing no signs of horror compared to the killer
• Jeans, t-shirts - as the setting is at home, the clothing should be casual in order to make the opening realistic 
• Killer - dark clothing, red/black again to link in with the conventions of a horror
• The use of black clothing has connotations of something sinister, almost a dark figure lurking around
• Minimal make up, - nothing too noticeable 
• Jewelry  - preferably a small watch and necklace
• Hair - a fringe, that could cover the character, or hair in a pony tail - something simple and casual due to the location of the opening.

Lighting

• We have discussed the different types of lighting which can be incorporated into our opening, this includes low key lighting which is popular in horror movies.
• The use of low key lighting creates a creepy and mysterious atmosphere as darkness is normally associated with evilness. The darkness is used to make our character feel scared and vulnerable, especially being home alone. 
• Makes the scene dramatic and there is a constant fear of the unknown due to the darkness
• Creates shadow and contrast 
  

Sounds

• Use of the 'static' noise sound, when the screen flashes black/goes to static image (Non-diegetic) - we will use this to create tension and suspense in order to 'scare' our audience
• Digetic sounds such as the ringing of the door bell, slamming the door, footsteps

Typography

• Common titles used in the opening scene include the colours red and black.  - red demonstrates the blood
• The most popular fonts have blood dripping down the text
• Mainly long and narrow fonts