Color In Dick Tracy

Dick Tracy, is a good example of a film that uses color, to create a dramatic tone, and dynamic visual effects. The films emphasis on color was especially notable because it only used a few consistent primary colors. This restricted palette remained controlled in all elements of the film, from set, to costume and especially shown in lighting. For lighting the film used color washes to achieve heightened dramatic looks, and even the shadows almost always appeared to be represented with colored light. Firstly, in the beginning of the movie the color palette of the film was initially displayed when Dick Tracy was leaving his apartment. In the scene, the strong, saturated, colors of red, yellow, blue, and green were very apparent. Moreover, the

In the film, the color of red light was used to indicate when more villainous characters were on screen. For example, in the opening scene where big boys thugs are shooting the gamblers, the thugs are lit with red light from one side. This helped in creating a contrast in the mood and overall look of the scene. Another element of light that was quite noticeable was the technique of red and green light being used in unison. During many of the night scenes this was especially powerful when red and green light were representing the light coming from a window. In these scenes white light was also being used, but most of the white light came from artificial elements like desk lamps and lightbulbs. Consequently, this was an interesting technique because the white light cut through the green and red light, creating an interesting visual representation, and a more heightened dramatic look. Also, the technique of putting red and green light together mimicked a representation of light and shadow. Moreover, having the complimentary colors presented together created a power shift. This evoked emotion through the