Nineteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

The fusion of cinematic and visual arts has long intrigued scholars and artists alike. This research undertakes a rigorous examination of the intricate interplay between color psychology and cinematic storytelling, with a particular emphasis on the cinematic image as a painting in motion. Our study advances the understanding of how the deliberate selection and manipulation of color within cinema evoke emotional responses, create meaning, and enhance narrative immersion. We commence this investigation by tracing the historical evolution of color in cinema, from the advent of hand-painted frames to the contemporary era of high-definition digital cinematography. By employing a comprehensive analysis of seminal films and avant-garde masterpieces, we unveil the parallel vocabulary between the artist’s palette and the cinematographer’s color grading toolkit. A pivotal focus of our study resides in the psychology of color in cinematic storytelling. We draw from the disciplines of cognitive psychology, color theory, and semiotics to decode the intricate ways in which color palettes, schemes, and associations influence audience perception. Our empirical studies reveal how the nuances of color symbolism underscore character development, thematic motifs, and narrative cohesion. Furthermore, we probe into the transformative influence of technology, particularly the integration of digital cinema and high dynamic range (HDR) imaging. The expanded color gamut and tonal depth empower filmmakers to utilize color with unprecedented precision. Our research underscores how these technological innovations have propelled cinema into a realm where the cinematic image increasingly parallels the painter’s canvas, challenging the conventional boundaries of visual storytelling.