Blog Post #23: Color Schemes

Monochromatic

Definition: Uses a single color throughout the entire film.

Purpose: Directors use monochromatic colors to create a very specific atmosphere because it has visual harmony.


Analogous

Definition: Colors next to each other on the color wheel.

Purpose: This is used to create worlds that look scenic and cohesive. 



Complementary

Definition: Opposite colors on the color wheel. It has high intensity (but keeps a balance) and has many effects.

Purpose: It makes character's pop, can symbolize conflict, and create strong emotions.



Triadic

Definition: Three evenly spaced colors from the color wheel. The color scheme is used commonly in stylized live action movies and animated films.

Purpose: It feels lively and vibrant, without it being overwhelming. 



Discordant colors

Definition: Any deviation from the film's color scheme.

Purpose: Often used to refocus viewer attention to an important person, place, or thing. Some effects this creates is it highlights danger, create unease, draw attention to an important object or character, and shows a narrative disruption.


Associative colors in film

Definition: When a reoccurring color or color scheme is connected to an important character or theme.

Purpose: This association builds an emotional reaction to the color. A filmmaker may assign a color to a character's emotions, a thematic concept, or a story arc.


Transitional colors in film

Definition: When a color scheme shifts over the course of a story, representing change in characters or themes.

Purpose: Directors alter color palettes to show character growth or show a change in mood.





Color schemes matter in films because they instantly set the mood and help the audience feel what the scene is trying to say without spelling it out. Color schemes are a big part of mise-en-scene. It can create harmony or tension depending on what the producer wants to achieve.

Documentaries keep things more natural so they feel honest, but they still use color to match the emotion or environment.

Fashion films go bold with dramatic or vibrant colors to make outfits stand out, while fashion documentaries use simpler color schemes, but also try to use brand‑focused colors. This builds branding but also makes it pleasing to watch as the viewer.

For example, in the photo to the left, the documentary associated Dior with red. This creates branding through out the film.

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