Codes in film

 

In film, codes are systems or conventions used to convey meaning to the audience. Here's a breakdown of each type of code.

1. Technical Codes

These refer to how the film is made — the technical aspects of filmmaking.

• Camera angles (e.g., close-ups for emotion, low angles for power)

• Lighting (e.g., low lighting for mystery, bright for happiness)

• Editing (e.g., fast cuts for action, slow pace for drama)

• Framing (e.g., what’s included/excluded in a shot)

• Special effects

Purpose: Helps create mood, guide focus, and support storytelling.

2. Symbolic Codes

These are deeper meanings conveyed through characters, settings, or objects.

• Clothing/Costume (e.g., uniform = authority)

• Colour (e.g., red = danger or love)

• Body language (e.g., crossed arms = defensive)

• Setting (e.g., a dark alley = danger)

Purpose: Symbolizes ideas, emotions, or themes without stating them directly.

3. Audio Codes

These relate to sound, including:

• Diegetic sound (heard by characters, like dialogue, footsteps)

• Non - diegetic sound (not heard by characters, like background music)

• Sound effects (e.g., explosions, doors creaking)

• Voice-over narration

Purpose: Builds atmosphere, provides information, and evokes emotion.

4. Written Codes

These are the use of text on the screen.

• Titles and subtitles

• Text overlays (e.g., "3 years later")

• Signs or written messages in the scene.

• Fonts and their styles

Purpose: Offers context, emphasizes themes, or supports the narrative.

Each of these codes works together to create meaning and enhance the audience's understanding and emotional experience of the film.

Let’s use "The Lion King" (1994) as an example — it’s popular and rich in cinematic codes. Here's how each code type shows up in that film.

1. Technical Codes in The Lion King

• Camera angles: When Simba climbs Pride Rock at the end, the low-angle shot makes him look powerful — showing his rise as king.

• Lighting: Scar’s scenes often have dark, greenish lighting, symbolizing evil and danger.

• Editing: Fast cuts during the wildebeest stampede build tension and panic.

    

2. Symbolic Codes in The Lion King

• Colour: The bright golden light during Mufasa’s reign symbolizes peace and prosperity. Scar’s lair is dark and shadowy — showing fear and decay.

• Animals: Lions symbolize strength and royalty; hyenas represent chaos and deceit.

• Simba's journey: Symbolizes a coming-of-age or redemption arc.

3. Audio Codes in The Lion King

• Non - diegetic music: “Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” heighten emotion and theme.

• Sound effects: The stampede, growls, and roars increase realism and suspense.

• Voice acting: Mufasa’s deep voice conveys authority and kindness, while Scar’s sarcastic tone shows manipulation.

4. Written Codes in The Lion King

• Opening text: The film starts with the “Disney Presents” and the title, setting the tone.

• Signs/messages: Less common in this film, but if any text appears (like in a prophecy or legacy), it’s used to support the story.

• Font style: The title’s bold, golden font gives a majestic and royal feeling.