Antigone in action!

Reflection

Scene – Prologue [Antigone, Ismene]

For our version of “Antigone” the movie, we chose to make the prologue a visual reality! In ancient Greek theatre, the prologue is a scene that introduces the conflict of the play. In Sophocles’ work, it often consists of one or two characters delivering necessary background knowledge to the audience. It is also interesting because it is a part of the play where there is no choral influence whatsoever. In “Antigone”, the prologue gives the audience an introduction to the two sister’s characters as they speak of their recent loss and struggle with the family curse of fate. It is the time when the sister’s polar personalities truly shine through and much emotion is exhibited.

In the scene, Antigone tells Ismene of her predisposition to bury her dead brother – to do what she believes is right. It is an emotional time in the play and Antigone is conveyed as the stronger of the two sisters. She refuses to understand the limits placed on her and is willing to go as far as death in her loyalty to the dead. The content of the prologue had a major effect on our cinematic decisions. For much of the animation, the camera switches between different close up angles on each sister as they speak in this time of hardship. If it had been an scene more focused on action, we would have used a wider angle to display the movement, however, the prologue emphasizes the characters and their feelings and that is why we used the close ups. These show their sentiments displayed on their faces, and actions as they speak to one another. It is an intimate scene and therefore requires intimate shots!

For example, Antigone tells Ismene that it is time for her to prove whether she is a true sister, or…a traitor to the family (1:03). This is a dramatic part, and so we had a close up on Antigone’s face to show the seriousness in her eyes. Also, we gave some thought to the appearance of each sister in our visual reality. Antigone is striking, and rebellious. Her blue hair and red lips emphasize that she is strong and is not bothered by what others think. Her style is contrasted with Ismene’s light pink outfit and carefully coifed hair depicting a more conservative character.

Overall, the prologue in “Antigone” is packed with importance and significance in the play. We did our best to capture as much of this as possible in our reenactment, through the dialogue and cinematic decisions, and personally, I think it looks pretty good.