Principle: Balance - Approximate Symmetrical Balance
Discussing FORM: What is the specific communicative strategy? Where is it found?
Balance refers to an even distribution of visual weigh. Symmetrical balance can feel strong and stable, while asymmetrical balance can feel quite spontaneous. Approximate symmetrical balance is created when the left and right side of the vertical axis are similar in visual weight, an almost perfect mirror image. It can be found here by the framing of the shot, divided right down the middle by the fireplace, and the mirrored posture of the characters.
Discussing CONTENT: What does it communicate?
A sense of dire improtance can easily be surmised. Expressions aside, the sheer posture gives the impression that something is being discussed or discovered. Both are uncannily similar, right down to the leaning forward. Now factoring in the facial expressions, we know this isn't just another fire side chat.
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