Medium close-ups analysis
The anxious expression on Walter’s face represents the tension of the scene where the couple attempts to start the car. Billy Wilder showcases how they have lost their sanity and morals in the pursuit of passion and money. In this photo, Walter Neff and Phyllis Dietrichson are attempting to start their car to drive away from the train station. They have left the corpse of Mr. Dietrichson on the train tracks. Phyllis has just failed to start the car three times and it isn’t until Walter turns the key that the engine turns on. Big close-ups and extreme close-ups are used to demonstrate anxiety or discomfort. This frame is two medium close-ups, but it still conveys the anxiety and depravity of its subjects with their worried expressions. Walter’s creased eyebrows and forehead show that he is anxious to leave Mr. Dietrichson behind for the road. Phyllis doesn’t have any apparent expression, but it is implied that she is also anxious from Walter’s expression and the previous moments of this...
