Even without using words, Luhrmann conveys Romeo's isolation through the harsh, unrelenting sun engulfing the scene with a strong orange light. The desert, in the absence of water is a sterile environment where life ceases to exist. This image of the barren desert does not only reflect Romeo's physical isolation, it is also metaphoric of his emotional desert. His life becomes meaningless and barren without Juliet's love. Camera angles have been very effectively used to increase tension and heighten audience involvement. In the death of Tybalt and Mercutio scene, the close-up shot of Benvolio's eyes as he sees the arrival of the Capulets conveys his fear and the seriousness of the situation. As the brawl breaks out between Tybalt and Mercutio, the rapid sequencing of shots heightens the pace and reinforces the inevitability of the following succession of events. The camera is at the centre of the fast action, blurring together the floral shirts and black suits, creating a sense of dizziness and chaos. The audience feels the chaotic and senseless nature of the action. After Mercutio is killed, the camera zooms towards Romeo as seeks Tybalt for revenge, making it seem as if he were driving towards us. The close-up shot shows his face contort with gargoyle-like hatred. The use of perspective shots from inside the car is very effective as we view the action from Romeo's perspective. The camera is in the interior of the car, almost transporting the audience right into the centre of the intense action. There are short, quick flashes alternating between Romeo and Tybalt and slow motion is used as the car overturns, all this highlights the speed and destruction of the scene. .
Luhrmann presents social decay as the main catalyst of the tragedy, deliberately exaggerating the violence and hatred permeating Verona to challenge us to critically assess society and our values. At first the audience is overwhelmed by the common presence of guns and violent fighting in public streets.