Having done my basic research into ways of representing and perceiving spaces, I have started finalizing ideas for my project proposal. It will involve filming of locations/sets in a way that represents a particular mood/feeling/state of mind. Before I plan it in detail though, I have one last step to go through. I will analyze camera movement in relevant films in relation to plot to understand better what effect a particular shot gives and what it implies.
There are several aspects I want to look at and I will be uploading them over the next few days.
This video does not show the camera movement as much as set lighting and movement (quite literally) - the corridor was designed in a way that, depending on scene requirements, the width could be adjusted. On the left screen I showed 'objective' view of the interior, as seen by all characters, and on the right screen - as seen by Carol. The shots, arranged chronologically, show clearly how the protagonist's perception of the space changes throughout the film and at the same time it is very clear to the viewer that this is how she sees it. Additionally the scenes with other characters in them are, as shown, longer and the movement in them is slower, more composed and calm. Carol always seems to walk fast and make frantic movements (head, arms) which also builds up the rhythm and tension in the film.
In this clip I put together scenes shot at different angles - eye level and fairly low angle that can be compared to a child's eye level. This way of showing spaces and characters relates to Carol's passivity and vulnerability, as if she actually was a child and as such reflects her mental condition. In the first part we see the kitchen where Carol's sister and her lover enjoy a breakfast alone. Next to it is another kitchen shot, taken at a lower angle and thus signaling Carol's appearance. It also shows the relation between the sisters where the older one is clearly in charge. The following two parts of the clip show how in subsequent scenes the angle changes to reflect Carol's change between anticipation of a problem and the actual unwelcome situation. While she is expecting trouble, she moves frantically, trying to avert it unsuccessfully or possibly get prepared to face it. She remains active. As soon as she faces an unwelcome situation, she becomes passive and simply gives in to it. That is when the angle changes, again reflecting her submissive and vulnerable nature.
This video focuses on two quite literal aspects of visual representation of Carol's condition. Firstly, there are rotting potatoes and rabbit left out for days to decay and disintegrate. This very closely reflects the protagonist's own mental breakdown. Another visual motif reappearing throughout the film are the cracks appearing in the walls, ceiling, sidewalk, even the creases in the bed linen. Again, they relate to her conscience and clarity of vision falling apart.
Finally, there is a clear representation of characters' role and intentions in particular scenes through the angle they are filmed from. There are many moments when the camera is looking up towards someone, or down at them. All shots looking from below at someone/something, suggest the person's/space's oppressive role or character at that moment. At the same time, the camera looking down signals the person in view is a victim. Interestingly, even though the viewer tends to sympathize with Carol, the is shown as both the villain/oppressor and the victim here.