Pure Cinema Hitchcock

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Concentrating on the visual aspects of the scene, rather than having dialogue carry it, can characterize Pure Cinema. Basically, it is conveyed to the viewer through mise en scene. Hitchcock believed by using too much dialogue, the emotion gets lost. When focusing on the visual aspects, such as, the setting, décor, lighting, costumes, performances, etc., the viewer is then allowed to use their imagination – making the scene more interesting. Hitchcock also believed the imagination of the viewer creates more emotion than a filmmaker can incorporate in his films. During the first scene, the viewer is shown Mr. Spencer relaxing on his bed, dressed in an expensive suit, smoking a cigar, and appearing to be in a pensive mood. Next, the camera dollies forward toward Charlie framing him in a medium close-up, then pans left to reveal money carelessly tossed on his nightstand, and followed by a tilt down to show more currency laying loosely on the floor. The purpose behind these shots is to display Charlie’s feelings towards the valueless bills. He doesn’t seem to care for the money like it is completely dispensable. Throughout this shot there is no dialogue; instead, the tone is being set. The audience can only imagine why someone would inconsiderately leave money about. If the viewer looks closely when the nightstand is displayed it appears there are two wallets, one new and one old. His apartment seems old and inexpensive; he and the money seem completely out of place. Maybe, the wallets are symbolizing his lifestyle changes from mediocre to rich. Or, is he just putting on a persona of being powerful and wealthy? The same could be said about the glasses of water; one is half full and the other is half empty. This one shot says a lot about this man, Mr. Spencer. It can be said that he does not take life seriously; rather he lives his life

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