A historical drama transports us to another time. Ballrooms, courtrooms, and battles evoke the past. Do you notice how some historical dramas use a tactic to immerse you? The method is symmetrical cinematography.
Order and Control: A Timely Reflection
Order and control were valued under monarchs and inflexible social institutions. Centrally mirrored pictures convey formality and solidity. Imagine a king on a throne, perfectly placed in the frame, flanked by matching pillars. This visual equilibrium reinforces the king’s power and hierarchy.
A Historical Window
Symmetry can reveal period architecture. Symmetrical framing highlights grand hallways with mirrored decorations and groomed gardens with precise arrangements. This attention to detail immerses us in the era, letting us appreciate its aesthetics.
Beyond Stability: Slight Unease
While symmetry symbolizes order, it can also produce subtle tension. A perfectly symmetrical image of a character facing another, say across a large dining table, might emphasize their formality and distance. A somewhat off-center persona might evoke discomfort and foretell a breakdown in the established order.
Conclusion
Historical dramas use symmetrical cinematography for more than just aesthetics. It enhances the story, takes viewers to another time, and suggests the complexity of a seemingly stable society. Next time you watch a historical drama, notice the camerawork. You may find a secret universe.