The most obvious example of computer generated images (CGI) is that of the sandstorm itself and the devastation it creates. This is the main focus of this extract, and while the large amount of screen time devoted to it does not further the plot particularly, this is not its purpose – instead, it amazes the audience. Another slightly less spectacular, although no less effective, use of CGI is that of the arrival of the Mummy, his sidekick and the female lead – their materialisation from the sand adds to the supernatural image the audience has of the Mummy.
One of the few genre conventions the film does break is that of the pace of editing, which is relatively slow to emphasise the location. The use of direct cuts between the Mummy and his sand-monster shows that they are one being, and again emphasises his power. Cuts are also used to build tension – as there are relatively few, the camera lingers on characters for a greater amount of time in order to reinforce impending dangers. The editing of the film’s soundtrack also has great effect, as the sound levels are mixed differently at certain times in order to focus on important sounds.
The soundtrack itself is in keeping with the action/adventure genre, in that it makes use of strings and brass instruments to accompany action, and is wholly orchestral. This symbolises the heroes, whereas the Mummy’s theme contrasts greatly with this and is in keeping with the Western image of Egypt; for example his entrance is accompanied by choirs and a tribal drumbeat. Danger is symbolised through the use of brass and crashing symbols, which aims to catch the audience up in the action taking place. The two principle themes are used when the two sets of characters are on screen – the point of view of the heroes is accompanied by their signature tune, and the Mummy’s presence uses his theme to great effect. During the sandstorm, i.e. where the two meet, the two themes also meet, combining and becoming one song. The dialogue in this extract is kept to a bare minimum, with only short sentences and very little direct conversation, in order to keep the emphasis on the action and special effects. Silence is utilized here albeit sparingly, most notably at the end of the extract, where the music (which has been building up throughout) cuts off as the plane disappears, leaving the audience with silence. Although this is something of an anti-climax after the grandeur of the previous moments, it is highly effective in keeping the audience’s interest regarding the fate of the heroes.
The mise-en-scene, while important in most films, is particularly important in ‘The Mummy’, for example the location which appears inhospitable to the Western audience, and so creates the image of overwhelming odds and the feeling that the heroes are out of place. The costumes worn are in keeping with the period in which the film is set (1930’s), and the female lead appears to be wearing a nightdress, which emphasises her status as a ‘damsel in distress.’ In contrast, the Mummy is dressed in keeping with the Westerner’s stereotypical image of Egypt – rags, medallions and talismans; the difference in costume between the Mummy and his sidekick and the foreigners greatens the differences between the two parties.
The main focus of this extract is the special effects and spectacular location, and all the devices employed here add to these, rather than detract or distract from them. The film also appears rather ‘tongue-in-cheek’, perfectly aware that is playing to both genre conventions and conventional views of the foreign ‘other.’