8 mile opening scene

Cinematography and angles have great significance in establishing the mood of EIGHT MILE as well, and that is seen right from the opening scene. The film’s main protagonist, Jimmy (Eminem) is seen in a bathroom as he readies himself for a rap battle. The camera focuses on the protagonist from a swung, pursuit perspective with gripping shots wherein only the protagonist’s face is visible in order to deliver an impression of anxiety and anticipation. The close ups therefore grant the audience the opportunity to sense the strain and fragility of the character’s situation.

When he emerges from one of the stalls and progresses towards the main stage, the camera captures him in handheld mode to create a feeling that the audience accompanying Jimmy is also rather amped up and eager. The shadows add to the documentary quality of the lighting held in this sequence.

When the rap battle gets underway, the shots once more alternate between medium shots of the audience and close-ups of Jimmy, allowing the viewer to appreciate the excitement of the audience and the internal conflict of the protagonist. When jimi remains stagnant on stage, cameras are directed into his face and his eyes zoomed in to show his feeling of disgracement. Such use of various angles and shots succeeds in engaging the spectators in Jimmys world, Nothi dis is his triaps in the film.