In the bathroom scene in Ex Machina (2015), Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson) performs a test on himself to see if he is an android like Ava and, while 'you just found out, Kyoko. While you might think this scene should settle the matter, it only muddies the water. As Caleb examines himself in the mirror, green and blue digital effects flash across his face. Is this a function of the mirror or a HUD of Caleb's potentially robotic eyes? Or perhaps it is an extradiegetic element solely to increase the spectator's curiosity. Sound design also plays a vital role in this scene. As he pulls his teeth, small sounds come out of his mouth that could be pieces of plastic breaking or simply the sound of his fingers clicking on his teeth. The score features electronic instruments and synthesizers that play non-lyrical ascending tones. This reflects a mechanical mood, suggesting that Caleb may be an android, and instills a sense of growing tension in the viewer, anxiously awaiting a revelation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The cinematography is vital to the function of this scene. The camera work plays with the viewer, first with rapid, non-continuous cuts, followed by long, suspenseful shots, keeping the audience disoriented and unable to predict the pace of the scene. As the scene progresses, the lighting changes to emphasize his bone structure, teasing the audience to see what's beneath his skin. One particular shot is composed so that Caleb's arm and body form a triangle with his face obscured behind it. This separates the audience from Caleb, making the viewer wonder if they can trust and relate to him again. Is this a moment of revelation for him as he looks at his open arm? The framing of the shot, with the eye on top of the triangle formed by the arm and body, is slightly reminiscent of the Illuminati symbol, which may allude to the conspiracy that Caleb faces. What is most compelling in this scene is Gleeson's performance. What kind of human being can cut deeply into his own arm without flinching or making a sound of pain? Although he begins the scene frantic and curious, he ends the scene staring at his reflection, unblinking in a very Terminator-like manner. He ends the scene by punching the mirror, creating a shattering that very poetically mirrors the shattering on the glass between him and Ava. Please note: this is just a sample. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay While this ultimately turns out to be a red herring, this scene all but convinces the viewer that Caleb is also a robot.