Othello by William Shakespeare is a classic play that has been successfully created into a movie. The opening act in any play is very important as it creates and establishes the themes that will be explored throughout the play. The director creates mood, character, character interrelationships and theme by various film techniques including camera angles, music, costuming, voice-overs and sets. It is also in the first act where most characters are introduced. In Othello, we are introduced to Othello, Desdemona, Brabantio, Iago, Roderigo, and Cassio. Although all of these characters appear in the first act, it is not yet clear who many of them are, what their intentions are, or where their loyalties lie. .
The use of music throughout the act helps to establish moods and emotions. The opening shots are accompanied by eerie, mystical, theatrical music, which helps to create an element of suspense and confusion. In the next scene, the music becomes increasingly frantic and panicky as it crescendos up into an abrupt ending. This music helps to create the intense tension felt between Brabantio and Othello when they clash. Towards the end of the third scene Iago's speech is accompanied by frightening music. The sound of the lightening as well as the loud dramatic music also coincides with Iago's evil intentions. The use of music and sound greatly helps to enhance the emotions and moods portrayed in the film. .
Camera angles are important for bringing attention to specific details. The most common camera angles used in this film were the close-up shots, the high camera angles and the low camera angles. In the first scene, a close-up shot is used when Othello puts the ring on Desdemona's hand. This portrays clearly the contrast between the different skin colours, but shows that even though they are so different, they have still come together to unite. A close-up of the marriage kiss also helps to create a sense of intimacy between the two.
