The Sixth Sense

I also analysed a short clip from the Sixth Sense in which the camera is used to create a different effect and atmosphere in comparison with the Mama Mia trailer.

In the first film clip of the sequence a slight High angle MS has been used to show the weeping boy, Cole, as weak vulnerable and victimised. At 0.13 there is a LS to reveal the surroundings of the dark red tent in which the boy looks small and in danger. There is then a High angle shot of the tent itself from the outside as if the boy is being spied on.

The next film clip makes great use of CUs and BCUs for effect. As the camera slowly zooms in to the boys face, the BCU enables the audience see his expression and emotions very clearly. We can see his eyes filled with tears and his expression shows that he is terrified and extremely troubled. This sort of shot helps the audience feel his emotions and sympathise. There are also CUs of the Bruce Willis showing his curiosity as he listens carefully.

In the next clip the director has used a handheld camera to make it look as though although it seems to be a totally ordinary day, there is something not quite right, and seems as though something is about to happen. The handheld effect also creates the effect that someone is watching them and that someone else is present. It then cuts to a CU of the boy’s sweaty handprint next to the untouched bowl of cereal, which makes it seem more creepy and abnormal.