House of flying colours

Chinese culture has never been something I have particularly interested in but purely because I had never taken the time to find out the reasons behind their vibrancy and intricate mask an clothing designs. One thing I have become really interested in since researching into China is their use of colour, it is such a key part to their personality and characteristics. However, it is also key in setting the mood in a film. I decided to do an experiment and watch 'House of flying daggers' by Zhang Yimou; when I noticed a distinguishable amount of colour influence I would stop and think what am I feeling or what do I understand about this seen.

The most prominent to me at first was the Green:

(Unknown)

At first the green signified to me peace and safety. However, going by the colour imagery used in Chinese Opera masks it means violence and impulse. Which also applies to this scene as the green would come before or follow a fight scene. So they appear to be the symbol of violence in the film as they are the members of the house of flying daggers.

The colour that Mei firsts emerges in is Blue:

(Anon, 2012 http://cleighcreations.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/top-movie-costumes-8-house-of-flying.html)

The blue dress that Mei is seen wearing when she first comes onto the screen and it is long and fluid and it moves so softly when she dances; almost mirroring water. Again in Chinese Opera masks it signifies bravery, which is so apparent as she appears to be a timid girl who is blind but still dances for a living. She originally comes across as a character to admire.

The end scene of the film is a snow scene with the main colour being White:

(Unknown, http://comelybankingcrisis.leithermagazine.com/tag/house-of-flying-daggers/)

The significance of white at the end of the film is mainly seen as a dramatic ending but it also makes the other bright colours stand out. The end scene sees the central female character sacrificing herself to be free of pain and angst. So its like her innocence is most prominent in the final scene. The Chinese definition for the colour would suggest deceit which is apparent through Mei's feelings for a past lover and a current lover. And the deception from her past lover as he kills her for loving another man. It is amazing to see how much colour influences the mood of the scene.

A more subtle use of colour is the blossom which is a field of Pink:

 (Anon, 2012 http://romanticideasinlife.wordpress.com/2012/07/page/2/)

The field of pink suggests reconciliation and trust between the two characters. It is also where the love between the two characters begins to blossom (excuse the pun). Whereas the Chinese definition implies old age, which could be translated as maturity in their relationship.

Lastly the colour motif thoroughout is Red:

(Anon, 2004 http://www.fareastfilms.com/reviewsPage/House-Of-Flying-Daggers-824.htm)

RED is the colour of love and blood which is seen throughout this film. Mei always has something red on her until you find out she is part of the house of the flying daggers. Her lipstick being the first noticeable thing. Which would suggest lust and femininity however with the white purity of her face it is a complete contrast in themes, However if you look at the Chinese translation of these two colours put together it matches the warriors masks in the Opera. So there is a correlation between those two colours. This can also be seen with the white snow and blood dripping from her mouth in the final scene which shows defeat but also bravery- like a warrior.

Colour significance is apparent in so many films.

For example similar connotations can be seen in such films as the 'Wizard of Oz' with the red glitter shoes which are taken from the witches feet and given to Dorothy. They are feminine and beautiful but also come with a dangerous battle against the Wicked Witch of the West.

(Unknown http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=&imgrefurl=http%3A%2F%2Fs710.photobucket.com%2Fuser%2Fryno18000%2Fmedia%2FThe-Wizard-of-Oz-House-on-witch.jpg.html&h=0&w=0&tbnid=kRFmUUtG3HthfM&zoom=1&tbnh=180&tbnw=281&docid=BJM0khZ_MtcVqM&tbm=isch&ei=MKgoVP21Cs7e7Abqm4DoBQ&ved=0CAQQsCUoAA)

The colours they use in scenes are there to evoke a feeling so that if it is a bold colour it will be iconic  and well remembered. 'Wizard of Oz' is a perfect example as it laced with colourful motifs that are laced throughout. Like the blue ribboned pigtails worn by Dorothy. A little girl's hair style that is youthful and innocent. Or the Emerald City supposed to be a place of magic and peace but then the same green is applied to the face of the Wicked Witch and it is an ugly colour filled with jealousy and hate. So there are different connotations to even the same colour but it is so interesting to interpret.