Lighting

In the film Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002) directed by Phillip Noyce, lighting is skillfully employed to evoke moods, emphasize contrasts, and symbolically represent the main ideas of the narrative.

The film extensively utilizes natural lighting, particularly during the outdoor scenes set in the Australian desert. The bright, harsh sunlight creates a sense of realism and authenticity, immersing the audience in the girls' journey. Natural lighting also contributes to the portrayal of the vastness and unforgiving nature of the landscape, underscoring the challenges the characters face. For example, at times particular outdoor shots appear overexposed, with parts of the sky looking almost white, which highlights the harsh blinding sun.

The film employs contrast and shadows to highlight the opposition between the Aboriginal and white cultures. The scenes at the Moore River Native Settlement are well-lit even indoors to depict the oppressive and controlled environment imposed by the white authorities. In contrast, the scenes with the girls in the desert utilize softer lighting, emphasizing their freedom and connection to their ancestral lands. For example, in Jigalong, the Aborig...