In, Last Tango in Paris, Marlon Brando's character, Paul, is shown to the audience using the films different motifs and numerous different uses of mise-en-scene. One of the main ideas Paul brings forth throughout the film is his desire to forget the past. There is no better example of this than the conversations that occur with Jeanne in their apartment. For instance, when Jeanne is telling a story to Paul, and states a name, Paul …showed first 75 words of 503 total…

…showed last 75 words of 503 total…and examines his face. The constant shots and reflections of Paul in these withered down mirrors expresses what appears to be his lack of desire to see himself clearly. To block out what he really is and "hide" in this fake life he lives in the apartment. Storaro and director Bernarto Bertolucci brilliantly showcase Brando's character of Paul to the audience by their consistent use of motifs such as mirrors, dark unlit spaces, and shadows.