Idea #121 - Colours & Storytelling

An unintentional follow-up to the previous idea, this video provides us with a deeper understanding of the psychology behind colours, and what they signify - especially in cinema.

Through this video we get to examine the colour in filmmaking, as well as how filmmakers can create a specific palette for their films.

Colour theory is a set of guidelines regarding mixing colours to create a visual effect for the audience and elicit emotions. We subconsciously associate different colours with different emotions such as - Red for Rage, Passion, Love/ Green for Envy/ Yellow for Positivity

Cinematographers usually use complementary colours for effect, and to increase contrast and separation between two planes in an image. Using Euphoria as a recurring example, we get to understand how they play with colours to provide a visually appealing look to the entire show, and the light used reflects how “teenagers see themselves”

Vittorio Storaro, an acclaimed cinematographer believes in using colours with innate psychological implications as “changing the colour temperature of a single light, changes completely that you have in your mind.” while other cinematographers rely more on instinct.

The colour palette of a film is dependant on three factors: Production Design and Costume, Lighting, and Colour Grade

By understanding colours and manipulating them at will - the filmmaker can decide the emotions they want the audience to visualise - and this tool serves a great purpose within storytelling.