Question

Read the following scene from Trifles. MRS. PETERS. But I’m awful glad you came with me, Mrs. Hale. It would be lonesome of me sitting here alone. MRS. HALE. It would, wouldn’t it? (Dropping her sewing). But I tell you what I do wish, Mrs. Peters. I wish I had come over sometimes she was here. I— (Looking around the room.)—wish I had. MRS. PETERS. But of course you were awful busy, Mrs. Hale—your house and your children. MRS. HALE. I could’ve come. I stayed away because it weren’t cheerful—and that’s why I ought to have come. I—I’ve never liked this place. Maybe because it’s down in a hollow, and you don’t see the road. I dunno what it is, but it’s a lonesome place and always was. I wish I had come over to see Minnie Foster sometimes. I can see now—(Shakes her head.) How would a film version most likely emphasize the women’s emotions during this scene?
by focusing on the lighting in the background
by focusing on the different props being used
by focusing on the women’s varied costumes
by focusing on the women’s facial expressions

Answer 1

By focusing on the women's facial expressions.

Answer 2

by focusing on the women’s facial expressions

The question asks about the best way to emphasize the women's emotions in the scene. A few answers should be immediately eliminated because they would not show the audience anything about the emotions of the women. Focusing on props or their costumes do not reveal emotions. The lighting can help to create a certain mood by adding shadows or angles to things, however, focusing specifically on the lighting will not emphasize emotions. The best way would be to focus on the facial expressions of the people's emotions you'd like to emphasize.