Full Answer Section

• Static framing: The camera is often stationary, focusing on the characters and their surroundings without excessive movement or cuts.
• Minimalist mise-en-scène: The sets and props are often sparse, emphasizing the psychological and spiritual dimensions of the story.
• Black and white: Bresson frequently used black and white film to create a timeless and austere atmosphere.

Shaping Meaning Through Cinematography

Bresson’s use of these cinematic techniques in Pickpocket serves to:

• Highlight the psychological and spiritual dimensions of the story: The minimalist mise-en-scène and long takes allow the viewer to focus on the character’s inner turmoil and moral dilemmas.
• Create a sense of isolation and alienation: The static framing and black and white cinematography contribute to a feeling of loneliness and detachment from society.
• Emphasize the theme of redemption: The film’s ending, which features a long, unbroken shot of the protagonist walking towards the sea, suggests the possibility of redemption and spiritual renewal.

Conclusion

Robert Bresson’s cinematography in Pickpocket is a masterclass in how visual language can be used to shape meaning and convey a particular worldview. Through his use of long takes, static framing, minimalist mise-en-scène, and black and white film, Bresson creates a powerful and evocative cinematic experience that lingers in the mind long after the film is over.