How lighting is used in Thrillers

I believe lighting is one of the most important factors to consider when we start filming and is something that is often overlooked.

Se7en (see above) is one of the films we have identified as a product we would like to take influence from. Throughout there title sequence the use of shadow and darkness is very important. By starting with out of focus hands that are in shadow not clearly shown suggests what have they been up to or capable and gives a sense of ambiguity. The theme of darkness continues when the titles are introduced with a black backdrop, the colour black can connote death and evil. Some bits where the lighting does change is where photos are developed in a room lit with red lights. The colour red can also connote blood however could equally suggest passion but in the context would most likely be the first.

This style isn't unique purely Se7en as the opening of the Requiem of a Dream shows. Although it isn't used quite as heavily as Se7en it does feature heavily and certainly effects the tone and mood. The opening two shots in particular are the most important in my mind as by starting up with a shady character the audience is immediately guessing of why the are in the darkness? and why had their identity been hidden. Requiem of a Dream does juxtapose with Se7en as later on characters are shot in brightly lit streets however the juxtaposition betwen the two styles only increases the affect that they produce.

How can I apply features into my project?

By watching these two openings what I have learnt includes the following; Sometimes by not revealing a character fully in the opening minutes can help keep the viewer interested and engaged trying to work out how they are or what they might be doing, and also how mood can easily be altered depending on how well lit something is.