Creating effects with the camera

Camera exploration

Low-key lighting is one of the most important effects simply because it creates the sense of the unknown, of unease, danger and suspicion that is really significant when representing the dark and depressed characters.

Low angle shots are regularly used in these films, largely due to the fact that they make the subject of the shot appear more powerful. This is a technique used for both the 'Femme Fatale' and male lead to interpret to the audience when they are at the heights and lows for their power during the progression of the film.

Dutch angle shots are often used in these films to portray to the audience a sense of unease or 'madness' the character is feeling psychologically. It's when the camera is tilted instead of being vertical or horizontal.

Mirror reflections is where one or more characters are usually shot in the reflection of a mirror. This can signify the development of a relationship, or reflect the two common sides of a femme fatale; the one she knows and the one the protagonist knows.