Mise-en-scene: Use of props

This is an analysis of how props are used in a scene and how they are important. 

I chose this scene from Tim Burton's 'Sweeney Todd' as it is completely focused on the props. 

The scene begins with the character Mrs. Lovett taking out a box from under the floorboards of a small Attic, this immediately tells me that this box is sacred and protected as it's hidden away. The box is also covered by a cloth which indicates that it is important and possibly secretive. She hands the box to the character Sweeney Todd gently, who then opens it slowly, this builds suspense and over-dramatises this moment, which again puts emphasis and importance on to the box. As Sweeney opens this box there is a quick close up of blades aligned together inside, this then moves up to Mrs.Lovett as she stares open mouthed into the box, she also leans further in towards it. This captures her amazement and ore over this object and sparks questions about why a set of blades are so special. She goes on to say "Those handles is chase-silver 'aint they?" in a soft tone, she appears to be in disbelief over whats in front of her. 

As the scene goes on it focuses more on Sweeney Todd's reaction, after he has opened the box there is another close-up of the blades as he gently runs his fingers over them, this is clearly a very precious item to him. The angle switches to show the two characters knelt beside the floorboard, this imagery as if someone is bowing before royalty, projecting just how much power the blades have over the two characters. 

As Sweeney takes a Blade out he holds it in front of his face with two hands, he is being delicate and cautious as he holds it further showing its importance to him, we also see mrs.Lovett's expression as she is fixated on the blade and still seems astounded with it. Another important moment is when Sweeney Todd holds the blade up to a window causing the light to make it glisten, it is almost as if it is the only source of light in the dark, dull room, and that it's presence lights up the whole area. Doing this also implies that Sweeney is looking up to the Blade and that it is sent from above from heaven, in his view. 

There are also several moments where the only the Blade is in shot and is used to see a distorted view of the characters. This makes the prop extremely significant as it implies that the two characters are controlled by the Blade and can only see the world through it. This gives an indication of the whole film as it shows the violent, sinister nature of both Sweeney Todd and Mrs.Lovett as they completely worship this weapon. This also teaches the audience about their relationship and how they are bound over this object and the implications behind it.