Cynthia Yehia explores how lighting shapes emotion and narrative in film
Film is a powerful storytelling medium, weaving together visuals and sound to evoke emotion and captivate audiences. Among its many artistic elements, lighting stands out as a crucial tool—shaping mood, guiding focus, and enriching the emotional depth of a narrative.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Wong Kar-wai’s 2000 masterpiece, In the Mood for Love. A poignant tale of love, longing, and restraint, the film follows two neighbours in 1960s Hong Kong who discover their spouses are having an affair. As they navigate their emotions and societal expectations, their meetings remain shrouded in secrecy—an intimacy beautifully reflected through the film’s lighting. Many scenes rely on low-key lighting, where protagonists Su Li-zhen and Chow Mo-wan are only partially illuminated, often blending into the shadows. This technique enhances the sense of secrecy and stolen moments, reinforcing their emotional restraint and unspoken desires. The interplay of light and dark adds another layer to their story. Shadows and under-lighting create an atmosphere of entrapment, mirroring their inner turmoil and the constraints of their respective marriages. Meanwhile, the softly illuminated areas highlight their longing—small glimpses of hope amidst their moral and societal battles.
Colour plays an equally vital role in shaping the film’s emotional landscape. Red—often linked to love, passion, and secrecy—dominates the film’s interiors. Yet, the lighting fixtures cast a cool, white glow, creating a striking contrast. In lighting design, colour temperature reflects the rhythm of the day, from the warm hues of sunrise and sunset to the crisp neutrality of midday light. Here, the juxtaposition of warm reds with cool whites visually embodies the protagonists’ internal conflict—their passionate emotions against their commitment to restraint.
Beyond the screen, In the Mood for Love offers a masterclass in how lighting can transform a space, evoking nostalgia, intimacy, or even tension. Just as lighting in film draws audiences into the characters’ world, intentional lighting in architecture and design can shape environments, guiding perception and creating immersive experiences. By carefully balancing light and shadow, harmonising with colours and materials, and directing focus to key elements, we can craft spaces that tell compelling visual stories—much like the mesmerising world Wong Kar-wai brings to life.
