Sign Language Analysis

The first second shows the main character blurred slightly, we can still see his features. It is as though the camera is going to focus on this one person and show a snippet of his life for the film. The film then begins to focus on him, illustrating that we will be following him throughout the film. This shot is a close-up, it shows how this character is the centre of attention and this short film is all about him.

In this next snap shot the camera begins to follow “Ben” off of the bus and onto the street. We can see this film is focused solely on Ben and we will be following him as he completes his last day of work.  Here we see Ben properly for the first time, the mise-en-scene shows us that although the dreary back-drop of London looks dark and depressing like his boring job he stays positive and friendly. This is mimicked by Ben’s colorful dress sense.

As Ben steps off the bus the title of the short film appears, it’s in a bright yellow color that mimics that of normal signs, as they are designed to be eye catching to get people’s attention. The font and fact it is capitalized also does that as it makes it more striking. The color yellow is frequently used in this film (on Ben’s gloves, the bus poles and now the title.) Yellow generally represents happiness and brightness, this symbolized Bens positive attitude and outlook on life.

Here in a medium shot Ben walks down the street and past a girl dressed in equally bright clothes as Ben. It is obvious as she is in focus and colorful again the grey backdrop and other grey people that she is important and known to Ben. Again, the color yellow is used on her coat which could possibly represent that she makes Ben happy. They greet each other as he walks past and it is shown by the flyers in her hand that she has a similar job in the same area.  Also Ben is slightly out of focus in the background to make the audience concentrate on her, she is significant.

 As Ben speaks about the area in a optimistic and happy sort of the way the things he is talking about are shown in the film. This shows again how what he is saying is important and how he the important character here.

 The shots jump cut quickly as Ben goes through the stages of putting up his sign and preparing for work. This doesn't only quicken up the pace of his tasks but also shows how this is something he has done for a long time as it doesn't take long. He is used to this job and knows the rituals very well.  

From a mid-shot Ben’s sign is shown, color matches the title. It’s striking and large to catch people’s attention but also symbolizes that it’s a big part in Ben’s life. Despite the low income and poor working standards of Ben’s job he remains cheerful and just happy to have a job. He enjoys it which is quite unexpected as it is low pay and long boring hours

Here Ben is shown in a close-up of his face; his is talking about all the other people who hold signs near him in a friendly tone. He seems really content with his life and proud to talk about his work. It is unusual as you expect most people who work in that field to be miserable and tired due to the poor conditions. This is what makes Ben likable and unique.

As Ben talks about all of the other sign people positively their attitudes contradict what he describes them like. This creates humor as Ben’s naivety is shown; he seems completely happy in his job and does not consider that others might not be. This man for example, is dressed in all black representing sadness; the other people walking by are also in black. This makes Ben stand out; also his sign has red writing which represents anger. All of which are negative emotions.

Here are two other men who are dressed in black and camouflage, both dark colors again. Also, they appear in a mid shot like the frame before. This shows how it is Ben point of view, as he talks we see from his perspective.

 The last person working there is on work experience, he is finding the job tough but Ben does not comment on this, he only sees the bright side. This is funny as its raining and dreary but Ben still only focuses on the good. Because most of the colors are dark Ben’s scarf and the bin stand out as bright green, they show the glimmer of happiness that Ben has.

However, when Ben talks about the girl the shot is still a POV but lots of bright colors are introduced.  The theme is yellow continues also, this shows how she is connected to Ben. They are both similar people.  Also she is the last person to be introduced; this shows how she is the most important.

In this close-up of Ben in an over the shoulder shot you can see that he is looking at the girl. All of the darkness is very blurred together but you can still make out the bright colors, such as her coat.

This shot is different as it is not from Bens POV but we get a close-up of the girl. She is shown to be very similar to Ben with the bright colors and such; this could reflect a similar attitude. Also, the background is again blurred in darkness. The negative parts are not important, the good and positive aspects are instead.

As Ben continues to look at the girl we see his expression falter for the first time, it is obvious he really likes her. The close-up focuses on his facial movements and his frown to highlight this. Again the background is blurred to suggest that the only important thing is his thoughts.

Ben looks sad as he wonders why none of the other sign people have said goodbye as it’s his last day. However, when he turns he sees that one of them has written a message. 

The message reads, “Bye Bye Ben” and it is shown from Bens POV. The use of signs reflects how it is a big part in Bens life, they aren’t usually used for this sort of goodbye but in Ben’s unusual case it fits. 

Here we can see that Ben is getting the farewell he deserves for his friendly attitude. It reflects how Bens opinions of the all the other people where right and the audiences opinion based on their appearance was wrong, they are probably friendly and happy people. 

The last sign reminds him and encourages him to talk to the girl who has been at the centre of his attention. This time the red that previously was thought to symbolize anger can now symbolize romance and love as it has gained an almost pinkish tint. It stands out against the grey and dull backdrop of London.

The last frame shows Ben’s POV as he is about to step out onto the pavement to talk to the girl and maybe ask her out. The yellow is used here possibly to mean how he is going for it and will expect the best like he does in everything.





Here is the whole short film of Sign Language -