Blog 4

00:40-3:05 (Click here to see scene)

I’m analyzing the beginning scene of the film “The Maze Runner”. The overall feeling conveyed is a sense of disorientation and fear. This is established through the way the scenes are shot and the sound that is used to match these scenes. The first scene is very dark and it is hard to see the images. When Thomas appears on screen he is shown vomiting. The buzz from the fluorescent lights and rustic screeching of the elevator projects an eerie feeling. The use of red and green lights also supports this eeriness. When the elevator finally stops, the absence of light emphasizes the heavy breathing of Thomas. The audience is left wondering: what will happen next? The darkness in this shot contrasts with a blinding light in the next shot. This works well because Thomas feels disoriented and scared.

The editing matches what is seen on the screen. The elevator is travels up and when Thomas first sees the other characters they are looking down on him. This scene further reinforces the fear in Thomas because we don’t know whether these characters are friend or foe. Gally jumps down into the elevator and the sudden close up of his face as he hovers over Thomas makes it seem as if he would harm Thomas. In the next scene, Thomas is thrown on the ground. The camera which shows his p.o.v, pans quickly across the people above him. This works well because they are laughing at him and it reinforces the confusion that Thomas feels.

The disorientation Thomas feels escalates and it prompts him to run away from these people. This is shot very well because the camera also moves very fast to follow the fast speed at which Thomas is running. The close up of his face is followed by the blur of his legs as he runs. In addition, Thomas occupies the left of the screen and the concept of lead room is illustrated here. Lead room is properly used because no one chases after Thomas as he runs away. When Thomas falls, the sound changes from heavy breathing to a quieter sound. The camera shows Thomas’ continued reaction of fear—he realizes that he is enclosed by looming walls. The camera does a 360 to show Thomas’ reaction as he absorbs this knowledge and also to show the audience the image of these walls. The sound of drums can be heard during this scene to provide a climatic effect. Overall, the editing of the scenes and the use of sound worked well together.