Lack of light in a scene can mean that there is a lot more place for characters or the protagonist to hide. Darkness can conceal a lot from the audience, and therefore creates an air of mystery around the setting. It is also a very unusual setting for humans to stay in, due to the lack of visibility, and this makes the characters and the audience feel vulnerable.
Darkness is also associated with Gothic Culture and the supernatural, Vampires especially, as they are unable to survive in sunlight. Therefore darkness is associated with evil. However a certain level of light is needed so that the characters are visible, which needs to be achieved while keeping most of the shot dark and mysterious.
Michael Myers from the remake of the 'Halloween' series of films, directed by Rob Zombie. This image shows how the set is dark, yet the streetlights have been strategically placed to allow the audience to see the protagonist, and the weapon in his right hand.
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