Textual Analysis of Luther

Textual Analysis of Luther 

Analyse how mis-en-scene is used in the extract to create meaning. Refer to at least one example from the extract in your answer

In the Luther clip shown, many mis-en-scene elements are used to create meaning. At the beginning of the clip, the ‘criminal’ or ‘villain’ (in Propps case) is dressed in black- this is done to create immediate understanding of who the criminal is to gather understanding of the clip. Luther, also known as the ‘hero’ begins to walk with a determined and serious look on his face to create tension as the audience don't know what is going to happen next. From the two shots shown at the beginning, the criminal and Luther disguise themselves with sunglasses to differentiate between the two.

The location of the attack reinforces the stereo type of usual attacks as there usually being done in side streets however the time of day is challenged as attacks usually occur in night time, creating connotations of ‘bad things’ and ‘evil’ things at night. The clip is portrayed in a ‘cold’ colour with a blue tinge on the footage with connotations of tranquility and calmness, however the clip was dull and washed out showing the scene is not going to be happy but will involve crime. The criminal is white-this reinforces the stereo type of white British/americans as they are seen as  ‘serial killers’. On the other hand, the ‘hero’ (Luther) is from an african descent  - stereotypically african descents are seen to be known as ‘criminals’ however in the clip Luther is the hero, this is challenging  the stereotype of african descents as they are stereotypically seen as 'criminals'.