Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mise-en-scene

Noun

/miz-ahn-sen/

Definition

A French term that translates to ‘placing on stage.’ It refers to the arrangement of everything that appears in the frame of a film or theater production, including sets, props, actors, costumes, and lighting.

Examples

The director carefully considered the mise-en-scene to enhance the emotional impact of the scene.
In film studies, analyzing the mise-en-scene provides insights into the director’s creative choices.
The stunning mise-en-scene of the play transported the audience to another era.

Meaning

Mise-en-scene encompasses all the visual elements of a production and how they are composed. It helps convey the mood, atmosphere, and narrative of a story.