What meanings are created in
the sequence you have studied and what do they tell us about narrative,
character development and genre?
In the sequence that was studied, meanings are created
through sound effects and dialog, camera shots used as well as how the scene is
edited for the viewer. The creators and
directors deliberately have scenes portraying a certain story or visual in
order to either relate it to the time period of the series or to develop/strength
the storyline.
When the scene between Benny (the diner owner) and Connie
the social worker starts, the dominance of the male gender is established
through the use of camera angles. Due to the time period of the show being
during the 80s, many women weren’t seen as equals. This is portrayed in the
opening scene due to the high angle shot of Connie talking to Benny. It plays
on the stereotypical vulnerable women therefore highlighting the patriarchal
society of the time as well as leading the viewer into a false sense of
security. As the scene develops, the camera then uses a wide long shot so both
characters are seen as ‘equals’ by being on the same level. This then develops
the characters as typical stereotypes begin to be questioned. This is then
followed by the close up of Connie. In doing so, dominance is then passed onto
her as she shoots Benny in cold blood. This particular scene not only is the
first visual act of violence, but it also shows the power and control the
Government have. By Stranger Things challenging stereotypes and moving away
from conventional roles it means that is becomes more appealing to a wider
demographic and makes the series genre of sci-fi/adventure more enticing. It
also makes the viewer unsure on how the narrative will develop from this as not
everything is what it seems.
Another example of camera shots developing the narrative is
seen when Joyce and Jonathon reminisce about old memories and well as discuss
their feelings surrounding the disappearance of Will. The use of close up shots
informs the viewer of the close relationship Joyce has with both of her
children as well as her loving nature towards them. This was also previously
shown through a flashback of Joyce and Will in his den. By using close shots in
this scene helps build the narrative as this family compared to the others seen
in the show could be argued as the least conventional family, however, once
seen in closer detail, have the more harmonious and strong family
bond/relationship. It also strengthens the viewers understanding of the
characters as they develop during the first episode.
In addition to this, the directors and creators use Mise en
Scene, for example; costume, lighting, actors, make-up, props and setting to
tell the narrative and show character development. In doing so, the viewer can
strengthen their knowledge of the narrative as well as see hidden meanings.
Nancy’s room is a great example of the use of lighting and props to show the
time period of this TV drama. Posters in Nancy’s room show pop starts of the
80s – one being Blondie. Furthermore, Nancy’s clothes are those of a typical high
school girl of the 80s. her clothes portray that she is an ordinary girl which
adds to her ‘nerdy’ and ‘good girl’ character. Another example of the use of
props in Stranger Things is the use of the yellow phone. When the Byers feel
helpless as the search for Will seems to be going nowhere, they receive a phone
call where it extra-terrestrial noises can be heard. This adds to the genre as
it helps the view know that there is a sci-fi element to the series. This then
will appeal to a different demographic therefore pulling more viewers in. The
use of the yellow means that it becomes a focus point as well as stands out in
the Byers house that is mainly brown due to dim lighting.
As well as this, the settings in Stranger Things add a lot
to the narrative. In the sequences, the settings are based at Benny’s diner,
the woods as well as Mike’s and Will’s houses. By not having many settings, it
means that the viewer can tell that the events are happening chronologically as
well as they are occurring at the same time. This adds strength to the
narrative as it shows the action and reaction of events.
In conclusion, the creators and directors in Stranger Things
use both camera and elements of Mise en Scene to add further development to
their characters and the storyline of those characters. They use a range of
shots to play on stereotypes and act as a red herring for the viewer to keep
the narrative interesting and different series. Mise en Scene can help to tell
the narrative as well as give context to the viewer as to when the show is set
and what the 80s were like. In doing so they help the narrative flow and
unpredictable therefore making them want to watch the next episode and then the
whole series. By making the narrative have so many elements and characters, a
wider demographic will be reached and will bring in larger demographics.
