Representation of Gender (Luther analysis) #1

Camera Shots – The scene begins outside with simple over the shoulder shots whilst Luther is talking to Alice. When they move inside, the over the shoulder shots slowly turn into mid shots and close up shots because the intensity of the scene is increasing. Zooming is used whilst Alice is talking and this highlights the serious tone of her voice. Also, an Arc shot is used to pan around the room to set the scene and show the two characters emotions towards each other. As the clip goes on, the camera shots turn into extreme close ups as Alice tries to seduce Luther. The tension is cut away as soon as Luther says “No” and this is shows the end of the intimate scene between them both.

Editing – Throughout the whole scene the camera often stays on the opposing person’s face who is not talking. This is done because it allows you to follow the action as well as seeing the facial expressions of each person.  An example of this is when Alice talks at the end about Luther’s wife and the camera stays on Luther’s face to show his face change.

Sound – Diegetic sound is used very well in this clip as Alice tries to use a very quiet, voice to seduce Luther. This shows gender very well because it is stereotypical that the woman is trying to trick and charm the man. Luther keeps a very calm voice throughout the clip and sticks to the point unlike Alice who brings his personal life into things. Non diegetic sound is used when Alice talks about the black hole and also when the intense moments in the scene begin.

Mise en scene – Luther’s strong shell is shown in this scene because he refrains from getting angry. Luther stays calm when Alice says “What happened to your marriage?” because he knows that if he were to get angry, she would get the better of him. Luther often gets the better of Alice and this is when she changes the conversation. Luther talks about her weakness of compulsion and again she tries to change the conversation back to his personal life.