This still shot comes at the beginning of the film when Mrs. Dietrichson and Walter Neff meet for the very first time. It is a high angle shot looking up at Phyllis from the foyer. The Dietrichson's home appears lavishly decorated with an intricate wrought iron banister in the center and a classical painting in the background. Under the painting lies a wooden commode where a beautiful porcelain figurine stands. Ornate sconces adorn the walls. Phyllis, however, appears only in a skimpy beach towel with sunglasses in her hands suggesting a life of leisure and foreshadowing her role as a seductress. Bathed in sunlight, the director has given her an almost angelic appearance, which is in sharp contrast to her deceptive nature. The decorations and furnishings in the house reflect the Dietrichson's wealth and extravagant tastes. Phyllis' materialism and superficiality are on display here. We later learn, that despite all this apparent wealth, her greed knows no bounds and she is willing to go so far as to kill her husband for more.
Adam! You did a great job describing what was going on in the background of this scene. You used some good sensory details that make this enjoyable to read. I like how you mentioned her wearing skimpy clothing and how it foreshadows her role as a seductress.
ReplyDeleteGood job!
Adam,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you talked about the material goods that Phyllis has. You were right in stating that her wealth is show through the different things she owns. I find it amazing that all of those materials were not enough for her. She was greedy, just like you said, and wanted more. She even went as far as to kill her husband. Great job on this post.
Ryan L.
Nice conclusion to your post, Adam. I like how you moved beyond this shot to think about what larger significance this image has in the film.
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