Lost Highway-Opening Scene Analysis

Camera:
At the start of the ‘Lost Highway’ clip there is a close up of the main male character. This character is shown to the audience as disturbed and bored as he sits in his house smoking a cigarette alone before pacing the length of the room he is in. Further on in the clip the male is portrayed as being unnerved after receiving a disturbing message over the intercom in his apartment. The pan of the road in front of the house, showing the man looking for someone creates tension as we see the anonymous voice through the intercom is not a friendly one. After the character is seen looking out of his window, an establishing shot is used to show the audience of the thriller the character’s fancy accommodation, giving the impression that the main character has a well-paying job as it is in a modern, urban area and his house is high end.  

Editing:

As the protagonist is pacing around his apartment a long take is used to demonstrate the slow paced nature of the opening scene that contains very little action. Also, the slow paced editing creates a tension build, therefore making the viewer feel on edge and anticipate upcoming events.  There is an eye line match when the intercom buzzes, before there is a cut from the intercom onto the main character creates tension and allows the audience to see the stress building within the man’s face. Another long take is used to follow the man around his apartment, this creates a tense moment as the audience question where he is going and what his next move will be.

Sound:

Throughout the clip there is non-diegetic music playing. This music is low toned and is used to create tension and suspense, causing the viewers to be on edge. A deep male mysterious voice over the intercom is used to help communicate the scene as he tells the main character about a death, helping the narrative enigma of the film.  The tone of voice used by this mysterious character creates fear for the audience as he is portrayed as threatening.

Mise-en-Scene:

When the main character is first introduced low key lighting is used, this reflects his mental state and to show he is going to be a dark, troubled character. The subdued lighting in the apartment creates confusion and disturbance. The dark tones in the scene follow the typical conventions of thrillers, creating a sinister feeling for any viewers. His facial expression presents that he is feeling boredom; this is also demonstrated by his slouched, reserved stance. Through his facial expression stress is portrayed giving the impression that the issues in his life are ongoing.