Saksama: Jurnal Sastra
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Saksama

CAMERA ANGLES AS MISE-EN-SCÈNE IN THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR

Fathin Aulia Fatharani (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Rinda Revanita (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Syabrina Sri Sulistyani (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Febriani Ahmad (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study explores the use of camera angles as integral elements of mise-en-scène in shaping the visual identity of The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, a short film directed by Wes Anderson. Rooted in the assumption that all cinematic representations carry expressive meaning, the study investigates how camera angles: eye-level, high-angle, low-angle, bird’s-eye view, and Dutch tilt are contributed to constructing visual narratives and influencing audience perception. Drawing on the theoretical framework of Mise-en-Scène: Within the Image, which defines mise-en-scène as the totality of expressive content within a frame, this research views camera angles not as neutral tools, but as carriers of meaning shaped by compositional choices. The research adopts a descriptive qualitative method through content analysis, closely examining selected scenes from the film by observing the function and impact of specific camera angles in context. The findings demonstrate that eye-level shots dominate Anderson’s style, reinforcing narrative neutrality and intimacy, while high-angle and low-angle shots reflect vulnerability and dominance, respectively. Bird’s-eye views are used to evoke detachment, and Dutch tilts mark psychological tension or narrative shifts. Through symmetrical compositions and careful angle selections, the film establishes a stylized yet emotionally resonant visual language. Ultimately, this study affirms that camera angles, as mise-en-scène components, function beyond visual aesthetics, they serve as narrative devices that shape the viewer’s emotional and interpretive experience, supporting the notion that every element within the frame is a deliberate and expressive cinematic choice.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

saksama

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities

Description

Saksama: Jurnal Sastra is a twice-yearly open access journal starts on the structural, post-structural, post-modern, comparative and post-colonial approaches to the critical analysis and interpretation of literature, with a special preference given to underrepresented works. Articles submitted ...