What does the term 'mise en scène' refer to in film?

The term 'mise en scène' in film refers specifically to the arrangement of everything that appears in the frame, which encompasses elements such as sets, actors, props, costumes, and lighting. This concept is fundamental in cinema as it defines how the visual elements are composed within a scene, influencing the audience's perception and emotional response.

By carefully orchestrating these components, filmmakers create a specific atmosphere or mood that enhances storytelling. For instance, the placement of characters in relation to their surroundings can convey relationships, tensions, or themes central to the narrative. This meticulous attention to visual design is what makes the mise en scène crucial for conveying the film's artistic vision and emotional depth.

Understanding mise en scène allows viewers and critics to analyze how the visual storytelling supports the overall narrative, making it a vital aspect of film study.