SSC Film Studies

The scene in which we're introduced to Madeleine we're instantly denied her point of view and instead adopt Scottie's to enhance the aesthetic of Scottie's obsession. The scene is completely voyeuristic in which we see Scottie literally 'gazing' at Madeleine, this shot of Scottie then does a slow track to where Madeleine is sitting, therefore adopting Scottie's point of view, ultimately connoting obsession in a single shot. The colour scheme also contains as much connotation as do the shots, as the use of extremely vibrant red interior for the bar in which the scene is situated connotes lust, danger and love and literally overwhelms us. The long shot that Madeleine is positioned in doesn't steer away focus from her, this is due to her costume being unique in comparison to the other women in their dresses, as Madeleine's allows us to 'gaze' at her bare back, therefore sexualising Madeleine subtly. The camera then returns to a medium shot of Scottie where we see Scottie sit up as if to suggest he is overwhelmed by Madeleines appearance, initially strengthening his obsession. The next shot shows Madeleine positioned within a door way, this creates an illusion that she is in a picture frame, further connoting that she is something for Scottie to 'gaze' at. The colour scheme of Madeleine's dress clearly stands of compared to the rest of the dinners, as does her blonde hair, Madeleine in this scene is literally idealised and it's the scene in which she is first introduced, this scene ultimately connotes Scottie's obsession for the rest of the film.

Midge in comparison to Madeleine is the complete opposite and in some ways is used to emphasise the effect of Madeleine by Midge being so dull. The way in which Midge is shot is through purely static shots