CAPTURING THE PAST IN SCENIC DESIGN OF VIDEO FILMS: FEMI LASODE’S SANGO AS A PARADIGM

Abstract

Apart from the aesthetic function, scenic designs in stage and screen theatrical productions create enabling environment to enhance character interpretation of actors and actresses. This is more so in historical plays that compel capturing of the past in costume, make-up, set and properties. A close watch of some Nigerian Video films have revealed that, detail attention is not given to scenic design in modern and historical films. While this is made up for in rented well-furnished apartments and hotel rooms in films with modern setting, much still need to be done in films with traditional setting of the past in history. It is against this backdrop that this paper examines the use of scenic design to capture the past in the film, ‘Sango’ by Femi Lasode. With the enactment of the past in design of the film, Sango, it is recommended that historical or periodical films should always capture the past in set, costume and properties. Creating the architecture of the period in history will go a long way to authenticate the history being dramatised. Closely allied to this, is the fabrication of the attire in vogue to enhance characterisation. This should be spiced up with appropriate make-up and properties for aesthetic. Casting the minds of the audience back to the period in history therefore demands from the set designer, costumier and make-up artist thorough research and resourcefulness.