The Mise-En-Scene In The Film Hell Or High Water

A dry, withered part of the world, for the most part, is established by the film’s mise-en-scene in Hell or High Water. From the dull colors of the cars and houses to the sea of lifeless yellow grass, it’s apparent the interactions between people, contrasted with the monotonous setting, are highlighted as an integral way the mise-en-scene reveals the characters. With the setting emphasizing their isolation, the mise-en-scene invites the viewer to empathize with the hardships the characters face throughout the movie. Although much can be inferred through the established setting, a telling theme of the movie can be derived from the costumes of a few characters - poverty and its effect on people. The mise-en-scene of Hell or High Water functions as a great source of information on the film’s characters, themes, and intended influence on the emotions of the audience. Washed out colors are commonly associated, in western culture, with descriptions like old, lackluster, or boring. Luckily for the viewer, the film showcases these colors in the buildings, clothing, and pretty much everywhere else. That’s not to …show more content…
The mise-en-scene leaving the viewer little choice to feel anything else but sorry for the two men. Their dirty, worn down clothes also an indication of their poverty, a significant theme touched on throughout the movie. However, the movie sheds light on the brothers’ dynamic, and their love for one another. For instance, there is a scene in the movie where the brothers look off into the distant Texas plains. Due to the low key lighting, only their silhouettes can be seen, play fighting as the sun sets. This aspect of mise-en-scene gives the viewer an insight into how at the heart of their unfortunate situation, a sliver of humanity remains within