How Martin Scorsese Layers Symbolism and Color in 'The Departed'
How does Scorsese layer things in his movies?

Martin Scorsese's The Departedis a crime thriller that explores the world of organized crime and undercover police work in Boston. The film's use of color and symbolism is a crucial element of its visual style and storytelling.
In this article, we will examine Scorsese's use of these in The Departed, exploring how it enhances the film's themes and character development.
Let's dive in.
How Does Scorsese Layers Symbolism and Color?
Scorsese is known for his masterful use of symbolism and color in his films, and The Departed is no exception. In this film, Scorsese uses a multi-layered approach to symbolism and color that creates a rich and complex narrative.
One of the most prominent examples of Scorsese's use of color in The Departed is his use of the color blue. We'll get to that. Also, the color red is used to represent danger and violence, as seen in the blood spatter that appears in several scenes. The color green is used to represent money and greed, as well as the Irish heritage of the characters.
Scorsese also layers symbolism into the film through his use of imagery and motifs. The recurring image of rats, for example, reinforces the idea of betrayal and duplicity in the film. The use of religious symbols and imagery, such as crucifixes and church scenes, adds another layer of symbolism that underscores the theme of morality and ethics.
Another way in which Scorsese layers symbolism is through his use of framing and composition. The repeated use of "X" shapes in the film, as well as the placement of characters against certain backgrounds, creates a sense of visual unity and coherence that adds to the film's overall impact.
We'll expand on these later.
How Does Martin Scorsese Use the Color Blue in The Departed?
Scorsese's use of color in The Departed is a notable aspect of the film's visual style, and the color blue plays a significant role in the movie's storytelling and mood.
One of the primary ways Scorsese uses blue in The Departed is through the film's cinematography. The film's color palette is dominated by blue and its shades, which creates a dark, moody, and somber atmosphere.
Blue lighting is used extensively in scenes set in the police station, emphasizing the cold and sterile environment where the police officers work.
The use of blue lighting in these scenes not only adds to the film's visual aesthetic but also helps to underscore the moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas of the characters. The police officers are supposed to be the good guys, but they are often seen doing morally questionable things, and the blue lighting helps to reinforce this moral ambiguity.
In addition to the cinematography, blue is often associated with the character of Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) who is a member of the Irish mafia and works as a mole for them within the Boston police department. Colin wears a blue tie in several scenes, and his apartment is decorated with blue furniture, emphasizing his deception and duality.
When he's shot at the end? It's Mark Wahlberg in head-to-toe blue who does it.
On the other hand, the character of Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is associated with the color brown, which represents his working-class background and his connection to the streets.
The contrast between the blue and brown color schemes reinforces the idea that these two characters come from different worlds and are engaged in a dangerous game of deception and betrayal.
'The Departed'Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
What Other Symbolism Exists in The Departed?
In addition to using the color blue, the movie features several other forms of symbolism that contribute to the film's rich and complex narrative. Here are a few examples:
- Rats: Throughout the film, rats are used as a recurring symbol to represent betrayal and duplicity. In the opening scene, a rat is shown scurrying across the street, and later, it is revealed that one of the characters is working as an informant for the police. The use of rats underscores the theme of deception and reinforces the idea that no one in the film can be trusted.
- Religion: Religion is also a significant theme in The Departed. Several characters, including Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) and Billy Costigan, attend church or are shown wearing religious symbols such as crucifixes. The use of religion in the film underscores the idea of morality and ethics and how these values can be manipulated or ignored in the pursuit of power.
- Food: Food is used symbolically in several scenes throughout the film. For example, Frank Costello offers cranberry juice to Colin Sullivan (played by Matt Damon) in one scene, which is a nod to the fact that cranberries are a major crop in Massachusetts and a symbol of the state. The use of food reinforces the idea that the film takes place in a specific location with its own unique culture and identity.
- Firearms: Firearms are used as a symbol of power and control in "The Departed." The characters who have access to guns, such as the police officers and members of the Irish mafia, are shown to have more power and control over their environment. The use of firearms reinforces the theme of violence and danger that runs throughout the film.
- The letter 'X': The letter "X" is also used symbolically to represent death and mortality. In several scenes, characters who are about to die are shown framed against a background of "X" shapes, such as the metal grating in an elevator or the windows of a building. This use of the letter "X" underscores the film's themes of violence and danger and reinforces the idea that death always lurks around the corner.
By using a range of different symbols and motifs, Scorsese creates a rich and complex narrative that explores themes of identity, loyalty, betrayal, and power.
The use of these symbols reinforces the film's central ideas and adds depth and complexity to its characters and themes.
'The Departed'Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
Summing Up How Martin Scorsese Uses the Color Blue in The Departed
Scorsese's use of blue in The Departed is an excellent example of how color can be used to enhance a film's storytelling and create a particular mood. The film's visual style, including its blue lighting and color scheme, reinforces the moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas of the characters, while also symbolizing their allegiances and conflicts.
Overall, Scorsese's masterful use of color in The Departed is one of the many reasons why the film is considered a modern classic in the crime genre.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
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10 Storytelling and Directing Tips Inspired by Akira Kurosawa
Learn from one of the greatest directors of all time.
In the pantheon of cinematic greats, Akira Kurosawa stands as a towering figure, a master storyteller whose influence transcends time and borders. His works, characterized by their epic narratives, exquisite visuals, and emotional depth, continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Kurosawa's unique approach to directing and storytelling has become a subject of study and admiration. As we explore the wisdom distilled from his illustrious career, we find timeless lessons that go beyond the confines of genre and culture. These principles serve not only as a blueprint for aspiring directors but also as a testament to Kurosawa's enduring legacy in the art of filmmaking.
The Humanistic Cinema of Akira Kurosawawww.youtube.com
1. Trust Your Gut
'Rashomon'
Credit: Everett Collection
Kurosawa emphasized the importance of a director's intuition. This suggests that when faced with creative decisions, it’s often valuable to listen to your gut feeling. This could mean choosing an unconventional shot or narrative direction that feels right, even if it challenges traditional methods or the opinions of collaborators.
2. Study The Masters
Akira Kurosawa working with a cinema camera on the set of
Credit: BFI
By examining the works of great directors, one can learn various aspects of filmmaking, such as shot composition, pacing, and storytelling.
Kurosawa himself was influenced by filmmakers like John Ford and Jean Renoir and believed in the value of understanding their techniques to refine his own work.
3. Collaborate With Your Actors
Credit: BFI
Actors bring characters to life, and Kurosawa believed in giving them space for interpretation. This includes working closely with them, understanding their perspective, and allowing them to bring their own creativity to their roles, which can result in more authentic and compelling performances.
4. Planning is Paramount
Akira Kurosawa's manual splicing
Credit:
Detailed planning and storyboarding were key to Kurosawa’s approach. He would often sketch out every shot before filming.
This level of preparation ensures that every visual element serves the story and can help in executing complex scenes more efficiently.
5. It's all in the Details
Akira Kurosawa on the set of ‘Yojimbo’
Credit: Film Magazine
In Kurosawa’s view, the minutiae of a film—such as the costumes, set design, and props—were crucial in creating a believable world.
Attention to these details helps to immerse the audience and can subtly enhance the storytelling.
6. It's Okay to be Silent
'Throne of Blood'
Credit: Toho
Silence can be as powerful as dialogue or music. Kurosawa harnessed silence to build suspense and convey emotion, using it to draw the audience in and focus their attention on the visual storytelling.
7. Learn From Mistakes
'High and Low'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa was not afraid to recognize his own mistakes and saw them as learning opportunities. This principle encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and resilience in the creative process.
8. Keep a Handle on Emerging Technology
'The Hidden Fortress'
Credit: Toho
Always curious about the latest developments, Kurosawa integrated new technologies into his filmmaking. This openness to innovation can lead to new ways of storytelling and can give a unique aesthetic to films.
9. Maintain Your Vision
'Dreams'
Credit: Warner Bros.
A director must have a clear vision for the film and remain true to it throughout the process. This can sometimes mean resisting studio pressure or popular trends to create a work that is authentic and personal.
10. Let Passion Guide You
'Seven Samurai'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa’s passion for filmmaking was evident in his dedication to his craft. This principle suggests that great art comes from a place of deep commitment and enthusiasm, and that passion is infectious, often inspiring the entire cast and crew to strive for excellence.
In honoring Kuroswas's legacy, we continue the quest for storytelling that resonates, transforms, and endures. For filmmakers and storytellers looking to craft their own masterpieces, let Kurosawa's spirit guide your cinematic adventures.
May your films be as bold, as beautiful, and as profoundly human as the ones he left us.
Now go make something.