Clip Analysis: Double Indemnity 1944

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Double Indemnity Clip Analysis The purpose of this paper is to explain and describe the stylistic choices of the selected clip from the movie Double Indemnity (1944.) Consisting of five shots, the features of the clip serve to cast feelings of uncertainty and intrigue upon the viewer. The introductory shot of the clip starts as two men enter an elevator. Extra-diegetic music plays for the total duration of the clip, adding a sense of suspense, while the whole clip is shot and shown in black and white. What starts as a medium long shot quickly transitions into a medium shot as the two men walk towards the camera. Low key backlighting is present for the duration of the shot. This two shot has a closed frame, leaving the viewer with no information as of far of the world …show more content…

The low-key lighting leaves the background in darkness while the desk lamp illuminates the man and the clutter upon the desk. As he sits down, he loosens his tie, the spotlight reveals a sweat-covered face. He lights a cigarette, both actions carried out with only one hand, (opposite than the arm he was clutching before) revealing an injury. As he single-handedly slides himself over to the old-fashioned recording machine and sets it up, the camera follows in a tracking shot before the shot ends. His sweating face is emphasized in this close-up static shot, the low-key spotlight focusing upon the man’s face. He starts the recording device, hinting at a confession as the clip ends as the extra-diegetic music fades, leaving the viewer with even more questions. These shots and their components work together to follow the man's journey to his aforementioned confession place, each revealing more about the man and contributing to the level of urgency and secrecy that he exudes. The clip itself casts mystique upon both the man and the