Visual Aesthetics and Mathematics in Cinema: Comparative Content and Cultural Analysis of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and The Conquest 1453

Abstract

Films are meticulously crafted using visual aesthetic elements, where mathematics and geometry play pivotal roles. Camera angles, timing in editing, staging sequences, lens specifications, and lighting ratios, demonstrate the intricate relationship between cinema and mathematics. Specifically, the virtual projection of isosceles and equilateral triangles is utilized in object positioning before the camera. Additionally, forms such as circles, squares, and rectangles are frequently employed in stage design. Number combinations, sequential numbers, and patterns are also common techniques used to enhance visual aesthetics in films. Fundamental components such as oblique, horizontal, vertical, and parallel lines are instrumental in achieving visual appeal. In our research, we investigate the properties of these components as they are discussed in scientific publications and their relevance to aesthetics. In this context, a comparative and quantitative analysis is conducted on 2001’s “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” and the Turkish film “The Conquest 1453” (known as Fetih 1453 in Turkey). It is observed that “The Conquest 1453” employs excessive mathematical and geometric data, which somewhat diminishes the thematic strength of the film. In contrast, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” demonstrates a more balanced use of these elements.