SSC Film Studies

The first shot we see is a low angle shot of Norman Bates in the parlour room, the effect of this shot is that it makes Norman seem in control of that environment.The props in the scene too are important because we see in the scene a predatory bird behind him, the bird has its wings out signifying that it is ready to attack, the use of the birds and Normans Taxidermy (his hobby) help signify the importance of mise en scene in this scene. The birds are also  not alive, this signifies that Norman radiates death,

The next shot we see is a two shot of Marion and Norman in the parlour. Lighting is used to great effect in this seen as both Marion and Norman both have their faces cast in shadow. This signifies Marion’s secret of stealing money from her boss and it also signifies, Norman’s split personality, unknowingly that he is also 'Mother'

We also see in this shot the lack of eye contact Marion gives Norman, this shows how uneasy Marion is about the situation, her body language also signifies her discomfort through the use of her crossed arms and how far away from Norman she is.  

 

After this we see a mid shot of Marion in a chair. In this shot lighting is used to light the area surrounding Marion showing a vast amount of space, this shows how distant and unfamiliar the two are with each other producing tension, Marions side of the room is show to be light and Normans dark; further signifying he is evil and radiates darkness.

 in this shot the setting is very dark and Norman is framed in the darkness, this makes him seem a lot more sinister and could also signify that his “darker” side is taking over Norman’s body language in this shot make him seem very nervous due to him squeezing his hand a lot, this signifies his anxiety. As well as this, the camera is a lot closer to Normans face in this shot making him seem trapped. As this shot progresses Norman touches the bird with his hand. This physical connection with the bird; the bird being a bird of prey signifies that he has an evil intention and will potentially kill Marion who he earlier referred to a bird "you eat like a bird"

 

Next, we see a close up of Normans face; his face fills the frame, the lack of space in this, making him look uncomfortable and anxious. The crow in the background signifies death and shows that death is indeed heading closer and closer to Marion. After this we see a close up of Marion, we can tell from the lack of space in this shot that Marion feels very uncomfortable and intimidated by Norman, there is also a lack of light in this shot with Marion’s face covered in shadow.

 

After this we see a low angle shot of Marion. This makes her seem in control of the situation. Her facial expression in this shot is serious. showing she has the power and is now taking control and then leaving.

After this we see a high angle shot of Norman, this shot makes Norman seem weak and pathetic. His facial expression showing he has lost the battle for control Marion leaves and Norman looks deflated.