discuss how the filmmakers use mise-en-scène to create an effective and believable diegetic world inhabited by believable characters: Production Design, Casting, Setting/Location, Props (including animatronics), Costumes and Makeup on The Force Awakens (2015) and Secrets of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey (2016)

Answer 1

In both "The Force Awakens" (2015) and its documentary counterpart "Secrets of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey" (2016), the filmmakers employ the elements of mise-en-scène meticulously to craft an immersive and believable diegetic world populated by authentic characters. Let's delve into each component of mise-en-scène to understand how they contribute to the films' successes.

### Production Design
**The Force Awakens:** The production design team, led by Rick Carter and Darren Gilford, creates a world that both honors the original Star Wars trilogy and introduces new elements. They employ practical effects, real sets, and locations alongside CGI to give depth and tangibility to the Star Wars universe. From the deserts of Jakku to the lush greenery of Takodana, the production design incorporates a mix of familiar and fresh visual cues that ground the story in a believable setting.

**Secrets of The Force Awakens:** This documentary highlights the extensive effort that goes into production design. By showcasing behind-the-scenes work, including sketches, models, and set construction, the film provides an in-depth look at how the design team brings the world to life. The documentary underscores the team's commitment to detail and authenticity, emphasizing their effort to blend new and old design elements harmoniously.

### Casting
**The Force Awakens:** Casting director April Webster and her team pull together a blend of new faces and returning actors. Daisy Ridley (Rey) and John Boyega (Finn) are cast based on their ability to bring fresh energy while maintaining a sense of connection to the original trilogy's spirit. The inclusion of veterans like Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill ensures continuity and lends further credibility to the expanded universe.

**Secrets of The Force Awakens:** The documentary explores the audition process and provides insight into the actors' dedication. It captures instances where the actors discuss their characters and their approach to inhabiting the universe, thereby augmenting the audience's understanding of how casting decisions contribute to crafting believable and layered performances.

### Setting/Location
**The Force Awakens:** Locations are chosen for their natural beauty and gritty realism. Filming in places like the deserts of Abu Dhabi for Jakku and the exotic locales of Iceland and Ireland brings a tactile, lived-in feel to the movie's various planets. These settings are elevated through detailed set designs, making each location unique yet coherent within the Star Wars universe.

**Secrets of The Force Awakens:** Viewers get a glimpse of the logistical challenges and creative solutions involved in scouting and preparing locations. The documentary covers the importance of finding suitable settings that enhance the narrative, offering an appreciation of the immense effort behind the scenes.

### Props (including animatronics)
**The Force Awakens:** The use of animatronics and practical props is central to constructing a believable world. Iconic items like lightsabers, droids (e.g., BB-8), and starships are built with remarkable attention to detail. These props are not just visually compelling but designed for interaction, allowing actors to engage with their environment authentically.

**Secrets of The Force Awakens:** The documentary reveals the craftsmanship and technological innovation involved in the creation of props and animatronics. By showcasing the intricate processes, from conceptual art to final product, it emphasizes the blend of traditional and modern techniques used to achieve high realism.

### Costumes and Makeup
**The Force Awakens:** Costume designer Michael Kaplan's work is crucial in reflecting character backgrounds and personalities. The costumes of main characters like Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren are distinctive, purposeful, and tell their own stories. Makeup and prosthetics are also employed effectively to create various alien species, enhancing the diversity and richness of the Star Wars universe.

**Secrets of The Force Awakens:** This documentary offers deeper insights into the creation and evolution of costumes and makeup. Viewers witness the transformation of actors through extensive makeup and prosthetics, as well as the thought processes behind costume design. Each item is crafted to support the characters and their roles within the story.

In conclusion, "The Force Awakens" and "Secrets of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey" together demonstrate the power of meticulous mise-en-scène in building a convincing and engaging world. Production design, casting, setting, props, costumes, and makeup are all crucial elements that collectively breathe life into the Star Wars saga, making it resonate with both long-time fans and new audiences.