The TV drama clip ‘The Fear’ can be used to construct representation of
social class using the following components: camera shots, editing, Mise-en-scene
and sound.
One way in which social class is represented in this clip is
through the use of camera shots, angles and movements. One shot that is used a
lot in this scene is a wide shot. This shot could be used to show class as it
shows the setting for the scene, which is obviously an upper class doctor’s
office. The room looks clean, with lots of furniture like large couches and
computers which shows that place obviously has money. The room has large
windows that go from top to bottoms and light up the room to show that it is
normally a calm and relaxed place. Another show which could be used to show
class are close ups/medium close ups. There are close ups or medium close ups
of each of the three characters involved in the scene. The receptionist looks
well kept with her hair and makeup down neatly, the doctor also looks well kept
with his hair styled, and you can see his suit and tie all neat which shows his
upper class positions. Compare these to the close up of Richie, where he looks
scruffy, with overgrown facial hair and his top button undone showing a more
relaxed/scruffy look. Also, when Ritchie is talking to the receptionist, the
camera is tilted down to her, and up to him to show him as more powerful,
however when the doctor walks in, Ritchie is shot straight on, to show the
shift in power.
Mise-en-scene could also be used to represent class, as the
props used in the scene show that the scene is set in a wealthy place such as
the computers and big chairs. It also looks like there is some art on the walls
which shows that the people have an upper class lifestyle. The prop of the
computer could also be used to show lower class because although Ritchie used
the keyboard as a threat because he is angry, it could also show that he sees
it disposable, ad though he doesn’t have an idea of the money spent on it,
which could indicate his class. The styling in the scene also shows the
difference in class, as the doctor and receptionist both look very professional
and neat, him in a suit and tie, showing his class, and her with neat hair and
makeup and a classy dress, compared to Ritchie who is in mismatching clothes,
with his top button undone showing that he is a bit more relaxed about his
appearance, again suggesting his lower class.
Sound is also used to represent class in this clip. The
dialogue in the scene shows the difference in class between the characters. Ritchie’s
voice sounds aggressive from the start, talking down to her (which could be
because he thinks he holds more power over her because of her gender and the
stereotypical female secretary role). The woman replies in a softer tone but
also assertive, which could show that she thinks she is from a higher class and
is trying to belittle him. Ritchie also swears a lot from the start of the clip
maybe showing that he lacks manners and social etiquette.
Lastly, editing can also be used to show class in this clip
as the scene shows a lot of cutting from wide shots, to show their upper class
surroundings, to close ups of Ritchie to show his aggressive manner.
Overall, camera shots and angles, editing, Mise-en-scene and
sound are used in this clip in different ways to show the difference of class
between all three characters, for example, their styling, the language/tone
used and the props in the scene, all show Ritchie to be of a lower class then
the doctor and the receptionist.
