What does color grading affect in a film's visuals?

Color grading plays a crucial role in shaping the visual tone and mood of scenes in a film. This process involves adjusting the colors, contrast, brightness, and saturation of the footage in post-production. By manipulating these elements, filmmakers can establish a specific atmosphere that enhances the storytelling. For instance, warmer tones may evoke feelings of nostalgia or happiness, while cooler tones can create a sense of tension or sadness.

In contrast, while the color of costumes worn by characters can influence visuals, it's primarily the result of design choices made during production rather than a direct impact of color grading. Although character emotions can be influenced by the visual tone, it is the color grading that specifically establishes the overarching mood throughout the film. Clarity of the script does not relate to color grading at all, as it pertains to the narrative and dialogue rather than visual presentation. Therefore, the correct choice reflects the direct impact of color grading on the film's overall aesthetic experience.