Zoë Atherton’s thriller analysis: The Shawshank Redemption

Certificate: 15

Opening duration: 2:18

Sound:

Non-diegetic sound: crickets/ frogs show that it is a hot climate and secluded.

Diegetic sound: radio music sets the era of the film and juxtaposes the mood and setting, showing something is not right, therefore when it stops it gives a threatening atmosphere.

Sound Bridge: gives a smooth transition between the two scenes where the mysterious non-diegetic sounds are introduced.

Dialogue: The word murder is mentioned which immediately tells what the film will be about. The mysterious non-diegetic sounds emphasize the meaning of the dialogue, adding to the tense atmosphere.

Editing: The lack of editing with a large initial shot duration establishes the setting and emphasizes tension.

Reverse eyeline match: we see what the character is looking at first, followed by a shot of him, creating an edgy, stifling atmosphere.

Parallel editing: the cross cutting between two shots used to reveal information.

Close-up shot: of the gun being unveiled creates suspense.

Camera:

The low angle shot that develops into a pan shot imitates somebody’s point of view, creating an edgy atmosphere.

The close up shot of a character almost a silhouette in the dark adds to the tension, as we do not know his identity, and the mysterious setting gives a thriller-like opening.

Mise-En-Scene

Location: The mysterious, unclear setting mostly covered in darkness immediately creates an edgy atmosphere.

Prop: the close up shot revealing a gun highlights its importance. The bottle of alcohol shown makes the character come across as unreliable.

Facial expression: the lighting supposedly from the radio illuminates his face, and highlights his grave expression.