This document summarizes the mise-en-scene elements of a cave scene shot for a film. The cave set was constructed with both practical and CGI elements to appear as a massive tunnel network. Lighting was minimal, using headlamps, flashlights, and flares to maintain a dark and ominous tone. Props were also minimal, including essential equipment like headlamps, a camera, and emergency lighting. Sound design focused on diegetic elements like water, footsteps, and creatures to immerse the audience in the cave environment.

1. Mise-en-scene
Joshua Cooper-Collins

2. Location
This scene is shot inside the
fake cave system in the
studio, the scenery is mainly
practical effects but some of
the larger rooms are CGI. The
system is made out of a few
cave sections that are moved
around to give the illusion of
a massive tunnel network.

3. Lighting and Colour
• Main light sources: head
torches, flashlights, night
vision camera, Zippo lighter,
flares
• Denotation wise, the cave was
dark because it had very little
lighting
• Connotation wise, the cave is
dark because its not a place
for humanity to thrive, this
cave is hidden from the grasp
of man
• The colours used are generally
dark, there is very little
vibrancy apart from when the
flares are used, they give the
surroundings a red tint

4. Props and Costume
The main props used in
this scene are the
headlamps, the camera,
the zippo and the flares.
It’s minimal and
lightweight equipment
that would be required for
the journey, they also
provide light sources for
the team. Their clothing is
very similar, it’s only the
necessary clothing for the
trip.

5. Sound
The sound for the scene is mainly diegetic,
which makes it immersive, the sound of the
water, the cracking of the bones under feet, the
sound of the creatures, it all adds to a realistic
finish. There is a constant sound of water behind
the voices and such, its there as a reminder that
they are stuck deep inside the cave.