Cinematography technique · used in 1 film

Reflection Reveal

Using mirrors to show something the characters cannot see directly, such as a person missing from the reflection. A simple prop gives away a hidden truth.

Examples

Where you can see it

  1. The Fearless Vampire Killers (1967) poster

    The Fearless Vampire Killers

    Roman Polanski · 1967

    Alfred realizes Herbert has no reflection and understands he is a vampire. At the ball, the hunters appear in the huge mirror while the vampires do not. The mirror turns into a lie detector.

    Where to see it: The ball: The hunters disguise themselves, but a huge mirror exposes them. They still manage to grab Sarah and escape.

Questions

Quick answers

What is reflection reveal in film?
Using mirrors to show something the characters cannot see directly, such as a person missing from the reflection. A simple prop gives away a hidden truth.
Which films use reflection reveal?
The Fearless Vampire Killers (1967).
What kind of technique is reflection reveal?
It is a cinematography technique. Related cinematography techniques include Silent Comedy Homage, Real Locations as Character, Handheld Cinema Vérité.

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