Mise-en-scène: analysis of a sequence from COLLATERAL DAMAGE (Andrew Davis, 2001)
Watch the closing sequence from Andrew Davis' movie Collateral Damage.
Analyse the use of mise-en-scène within this sequence. What does the mise-en-scène tell us about the characters, narrative, themes and conflicts within the film?
Analysis: Costume & Props:
Gordy Brewer’s (Arnold Schwarzenegger) costume identifies him as a ‘blue collar’ worker (he is a fireman).
He is contrasted with the ‘white collar’ workers who populate the CIA offices: he is a man of action, and is capable of solving a situation in which they simply panic.
However, the CIA agent Peter Brandt (Elias Koteas) is likewise dressed casually, suggesting similarities with Brewer. 
The computers and desks tell us that the sequence takes place in an office building; the formal, drab colour scheme tells us that this building is most likely a government building.
The ‘clutter’ of the upper offices is contrasted (or ‘juxtaposed’) with the desolation of the underground transportation corridors.
Analyse the use of mise-en-scène within this sequence. What does the mise-en-scène tell us about the characters, narrative, themes and conflicts within the film?
Analysis: Costume & Props:
Gordy Brewer’s (Arnold Schwarzenegger) costume identifies him as a ‘blue collar’ worker (he is a fireman).
He is contrasted with the ‘white collar’ workers who populate the CIA offices: he is a man of action, and is capable of solving a situation in which they simply panic.
However, the CIA agent Peter Brandt (Elias Koteas) is likewise dressed casually, suggesting similarities with Brewer.
The computers and desks tell us that the sequence takes place in an office building; the formal, drab colour scheme tells us that this building is most likely a government building.The ‘clutter’ of the upper offices is contrasted (or ‘juxtaposed’) with the desolation of the underground transportation corridors.