The Queens Gambit episode 3, opens to a Short side lighting setting to show the flashback of the character, beth, young and sitting with a woman to which he appears to her mother. The lighting gives more contrast and gives an angle the director wants the viewer to feel. The backlighting is used while the mother is seen going into the water for a swim. The lighting creates a dreamy look and creates more suspense for the viewer, as the lighting is dark and dreary. The director adds this flashback to make the episode have more depth, darkness, and mystery.
As we move to the next scene in the show you will notice that the lighting is low-key, helping to portray a sense of mystery and oldness for all the characters involved. This darkness helps the viewer's interpret that this is a show that takes place in the '60s. The fits the mood of the '60s, further adding to the mystery of the film. The mystery relates to the dialogue as Beth has to play a game of chess that will be undeterminded if won and takes a lot of stress to prepare for. The filter used on the scenes is more on the brown side, while the flashbacks had more of a green tint. The warm brown tint assists in the vintage appeal.
Due to the film being set in the '60s, the set designers chose to represent the style through clothing choice, architecture, filters and vintage props. The Décor of the hotel contributes to the feeling of vintage with the low-key lighting it provides. The lighting/mood changes for this character as she attends her chess match. The color pink is introduced during this scene by the background reflecting onto the chess board. The characters are all dressed in a appropriate wardrobe to fit the era, including the hair and makeup to match the current trends during that time. Beth is seen in natural makeup, bob-curled haircut and a reserved dress. During Beths match, the camera blurs the people in the background observing the game focusing on Beth and her opponent.
