What is "chiaroscuro" in cinematography?

Chiaroscuro in cinematography refers specifically to the use of strong contrasts between light and dark, which plays a crucial role in enhancing depth and drama within a scene. This technique is integral to visual storytelling, as it can evoke mood, highlight emotions, and emphasize particular elements or characters within the frame. By manipulating light and shadow, filmmakers can guide the audience's attention and create a visually dynamic scene that enhances the narrative's impact. The contrast between light and dark can symbolize various themes, underscore character development, or even foreshadow events within the story. This technique has roots in fine art, where it has been used to create dimension and realism, and its application in film serves to deepen the viewer's engagement with the story being told.