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Key Sequences in 'Memento' - Opening Sequence - Coggle Diagram
Key Sequences in 'Memento' - Opening Sequence
Cinematography
Closeups
on Leonard's face, empahsises his confusion, emotional state and fractured memory
Extreme closeups
on Leonard's hands, tattoos and notes which underline his relaince on physical reminders
Handheld camera work
- its subtle but it adds tension and immediacy → shows Leonard's unstavle mental state, uncertainty and the chaotic environment
Lowkey lighting
- there is a stark contrast between light and dark areas → the
chiaroscuro effect
enhances the noir, mysterious atmosphere and emotinoal intensity - it visually represents Leonard's fractured, shadowed understanding of his reality
Mise-En-Scene
Colour palette
- many shades of blue which adds a nocturnal feel even when in datlight
Dress code
- Leonard's clothes are also pale blue, as well as his eyes → this reminds the audience that everything we see is through Leonard's perspective
Set design
- a typical neo-noir detective film
Setting
- beings in a sparse motel room, the bare, claustrophobic space reflecrs Leonard's isolated mental and emotional state → the sterile, impersonal environment emphasises his disconnnection from normal life
Props
- Leonard's tattoos → permanent, physical reminder
Props
- photographs, notes and pens → often scattered or held carefully and they visually dominate many shots
Props
- the gun → symbolises revenge, danger and control
Sound
Diegetic sound
- Leonard's voice, the ricking clock, the camera shitter are amplified → this highlights Leonard's reliance on physical actions and reminders as his mind struggles to grasp new information
Ambient diegetic sound
- the scene is mostly quiet, ambient sound environment, there are a few natural sounds like footsteps → this restarined sound reflects Leonard's isolation and internal focus
Editing
The balance between confusing
jump cuts
and conventional film editing means the viewer is immersed in Leonard's perspective, whilst also being able to decode what is happening in the story
Rhythmic cuts
- they often follow Leonard's deliberate actions e.g. interacting with his tattoos → they focus tightly on these devices reniforcing their narrative importance