LOTR Shot Analysis-UNFINISHED

The Fellowship Of The Ring- Ring Wraith scene

The scene begins with a low angle wide shot this gives the impression that Frodo and the other Hobbits are in a small section of the frame giving the impression that they are trapped in a cramped environment to the viewer, this gives a feel of isolation and due to the extent the Hobbits have taken to be hidden shows a degree of urgency. Also the large amount of space in the frame gives the impression to the viewer that something soon is going to occupy the space available.

The next shot is again a low angle high shot, however the camera has panned making the Hobbits seem even smaller in their environment. The Ring Wraith however is very large in comparison giving the idea of dominance and how the wraith has the power in this situation. Also note how the frame is very natural with foliage and things of that nature then the Ring Wraith is dressed in all black showing that it doesn’t belong there and has this dark and unsettling presence about it, this is also great example of how mise-en-scene can change the viewers perception of the situation.   

            The third shot is a low angle close up. This is strange since they are usually used to make the character look dominant or threatening, whereas Frodo is actually the prey rather than the threat. The main character (Frodo) occupies very little of the frame to indicate that he is small and powerless for this scene, I believe this because he is trapped and is forced to wait for the Ring Wraith to make its action.

            The forth shot is a high angle extreme close up, the director likely used this to create an impression of vulnerability and weakness about the character Frodo in this situation. Also how the shot is taken (through what appears to be a tree) again gives the feel that Frodo is trapped and close to danger, the characters expression makes this danger more realistic and impending.

            The next shots can be mistaken to be multiple cut ins, however I personally believe that it is actually Frodo’s point of view. I believe this because all of the shots are very low angle, and in the previous shot it is apparent to the viewer that Frodo can see through a hole in what seems to be a tree trunk.