The Usual Suspects (1995)

This scene communicated more than just what was said in the conversation. You can tell from observing the position of the man being questioned (left) and the officer (right) that the cop should have the upper hand. He should be the one in power, asking questions and getting answers. But the mannerisms of the man on the left tell that he believes he has it all under his control. Later on you learn just how far in control he really is.



Here is a good example of the dramatic effect of fire. We see the silhouette of a man as he walks away from what we presume to be a burning building - partly because it's what you might expect, and partly because the man narrating this tidbit says so. This near-mythical figure is Kaiser Sose, a famed criminal known for his viciousness and tenacity. The story goes that he was crossed by some mob who wanted his territory. He ends up slaughtering them and anyone even remotely associated with them. Horror stories are told about him by criminals to their children, saying, "You cross your dad, and Kaiser Sose is gonna get you!" This shot gives meaning to that phrase quite well.