... as a visual metaphor implying the repressive, narrow-minded nature of the Salem society. A zoom shot is used to show the other village girls simultaneously rush from their houses after Abigail, towards the grim-looking forest ahead. This illustrates Abigail as the girls' leader, and the fact that the film opens on her establishes her as a main character. As the film changes scene, the camera techniques change likewise. Panning and tracking conjure a sense of tension and chaos, and this effect is teamed with austere colour schemes of purple and blue. The camera is in mid-shot position and tracks them as they run through the trees, giving an effect of movement and therefore involving the audience in the action. Intermittent between tracking shots, the camera is set behind trees or branches as it follows the girls, as if they are being secretly monitored. When the girls are casting the spell, close-ups and ...

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