Cinematography and Themes in The Truman Show

Cinematography in The Truman Show

In addition to camera angles which are intended to be a part of the story itself, traditional cinematography is used to develop the plot and characters through angles and various techniques.

Overhead Shots and Control

Overhead shots are utilized to present the idea that Truman functions according to the whims of an omnipotent “puppet master”. The overhead shot casts Truman in a light which highlights his unwitting subservience to the powers that be.

Tracking Shots and Obstacles

Tracking shots are used in one scene where Truman sees his father, who he had long presumed to be dead. The tracking shot follows Truman as he chases after his father who is whisked away by various stage hands, all while Truman is being blockaded by myriad denizens of his fantasy world who seek to prevent further interaction between him and his resurrected paternal figure. This shot is particularly useful for the scene, as it is the only way for the camera to follow Truman in a way which presents all the information about the struggle he must overcome in the face of such a well-coordinated force.

Low-Angle Shots and Empowerment

Toward the end of the film, the protagonist is shot from angles which view the subject from the bottom up. This serves to make him appear more powerful, indicating that he will not be placated by the producers' desperate groveling. This is important because if Truman were to remain the star of the show and live in a “perfect” world, reality would remain obfuscated, preventing him from truly living life. The need to see reality as it is, without smoke and mirrors, is one of the central themes of the film.

Themes Explored in The Truman Show

Superficiality and the travesty that is autonomy in the modern world are just two of the themes in The Truman Show. The themes of observation, commercialization, and state capitalism come together to present the central message. This film serves as a cautionary tale detailing the potential consequences of the rapidly commercializing nature of our reality in a globalizing world.

Capitalism, Surveillance, and Society

The themes of constant surveillance, the inherent mania of the American dream, and the forces vying for control of our day-to-day lives are all present under one banner in The Truman Show. The presentation of these themes is aided through the use of carefully chosen camera angles and techniques, presenting the audience with a vision of what society stands to become under the influence of capitalism. A superficial reality much like the one in The Truman Show is knocking on our door. Through clever camera angles and visual effects, the film paints a picture where capitalism and all its malignant reciprocity have come to their zenith.