The Arrival

Directed by Daniel Montanarini

Establishing shot of restaurant through a foggy window. Obscurity here peaks the audiences interest by creating a sense of mystery which is reflected in the protagonists uncertainty throughout the film.

Cinematography: one shot film. The camera slowly dollies in on the protagonist, Anna, for almost the entirety of the short film. Which perhaps reflects the spectator travelling deeper into Anna's thinking and mindset. This similarly allows the audience to focus on just the dialogue and intricacies and subtle choreographed actions happening within the scene. 

the climax takes place as the camera gets the closest to Anna- marked by the train suddenly appearing. Perhaps symbolising the journey that she is on and about to continue as possibly a mother. Therefore, the camera movement alone tracks the logic of Anna's thought process. Similarly, this close position with the audience to Anna enhances our investment in her decision making the open ending even more effective, but also emulates her claustrophobic feeling. 

I think the use of mise-en-scene in The Arrival is particularly effective. Costume informs us that it is winter (scarf and coat), coldness is translated impressively through the screen due partially to the blue tinted lighting.  Detail of props creates a sense if realism. Clock on the wall- symbolic of time passing and running out- Anna herself is debating if she is getting too old to have a child. Though a small detail, the clock is always there much like time itself, perhaps going unnoticed but always continuing. 

Performance: nuanced an subtle 

The protagonist only says a few lines out loud and so must act via her body language and expression. She uses her eyes constantly, always gazing into the distance. Seen especially as Anna holds her gaze at a couple holding hands - giving insight into her emotions surrounding her desire for a secure relationship.