Mise-En-Scene In Napoleon Dynamite
...a unique fellow. His quirkiness and eccentricity are what make him as a character; they are the primary traits of his personality. Keep in mind, however, that he is not the only odd character in the film, but he has his own peerless way of defining himself separate from any other character(s). This effect is achieved through certain cinematic techniques that director Jared Hess utilizes in order to bring out Napoleon's persona in ways other than simply "guessing" who he really is. Rather, these techniques "explicitly imply" certain character traits; they are like clues that allow one to see the character just as the creator intended. Through mise-en-scene, sound, and acting and performance, Napoleon Dynamite emphasizes and comments on the character of Napoleon, defining his physical and social nature.
Part of Napoleon Dynamite's character is defined through mise-en-scene. His costuming throughout the movie is very indicative of who he is; he is almost always seen wearing out of date clothing, usually from the 80s. He wears very drab colors, except for when his shirt sports a vivid design. His mismatched, corny, and awkward clothing are synonymous with his personality. On the other end of the spectrum, he wears a gauche-colored yet slick-looking suit to the dance. This is fitting due to the fact that he thinks he is suave for having a hot date, yet he is still "gauche" according to his date and the rest of the school.
Another element of mise-en-scene that helps define Napoleon's personality is his physical setting. The town that he lives in is uneventful, repetitive, and simple, all characteristic of his persona. The high school, his neighborhood, the open fields and pastures; all of them emanate one distinct word that uncannily matches Napoleon's temperament: boring. This is not to say that he is boring per se; Hess gives him words and actions...
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