Medium and long shots are used to show the viewer the environment/setting surrounding the character(s) on screen. This relieves tension as the surroundings are no longer a mystery to the viewer and because of this comforting effect, these shots are often used in comedies. These shots can however be used together to create a dramatic effect in needed, for example a scene could start with a BCU that then panned into a MLS (Medium Long Shot), slowly revealing the surroundings to the viewer.
Example:
In this scene from Cowboys & Aliens, a MLS has been used. This is used for several reasons. Firstly it shows the surrounding environment of the main character and that the streets are completely clear, creation a sense of tension. Secondly the shot shows the light of an alien ship in the distance in front of the main character. This shows that viewer what the main character will be up against which creates a further sense of tension as the shot also shows how unequipped the main character is. The MLS has been used so that the viewer can see that the main character is equipped with nothing more than a revolver pistol in his battle against an alien ship.
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