Evoking Empathy Through Audiovisual Design: A Semiotic and Cognitive Poetic Analysis of 'Do You Hear the People Sing' in Les Misérables (2012)
Abstract
"Les Misérables"(2012) is renowned for its high-quality adaptation and sophisticated filmmaking techniques that convey profound emotional resonance. The clip “Do you hear the people sing?” serves as compelling evidence, as it elicits strong emotional engagement from audiences. While existing studies have examined the effect of simple elements, a research gap remains regarding how these elements interact to enhance emotional resonance. This study seeks to explore how the clip "Do you hear the people sing" from Les Misérables (2012) elicits audience empathy. This study integrates film semiotics and cognitive poetics to examine the specific manifestations of signs and symbols in the clip. The study will employ a detailed textual analysis of the clip, analysing through five dimensions: frame, music, lyrics, characters, and audience interaction. By examining how these elements interact in harmony or contrast, their combined impact on emotional engagement and empathy will be evaluated. The clip reinforces emotional expression and continuously invites audience engagement, fostering viewers’ sense of identification that elicits empathy.
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