Opening Sequence Analysis

Before doing opening sequence research, I have decided to do a brief analysis of a film opening to explore the functions and explain how it is effective. An opening sequence must establish characterisation, narrative and setting to define the genre of the film. This can be emphasised by the use of camera shots, music, soundtrack which has an effect on representation, ideology, mise-en scene and genre.

The Genre helps set a theme of a certain time period combined with the actions of certain characters which represent stereotypes from around this era, props and costumes reinforce this idea. Genre is used so the audience understands who these characters are as well as giving the audience an insight into what is happening. The audience may have preconceptions of a certain genre and the aim of the producers and directors is to meet these expectations.

I have written a selection of film opening analysis' including; Edward Scissorhands and Dirty Harry, but I have decided to focus on the Usual Suspects. As the opening is centralised around action, which I am hoping to incorporate in my opening sequence. Here are are 3 extracts taken from my essay:

" The opening shot is cleverly constructed due to the use of lighting to create reflections off the water. This is accompanied by the the classical music which creates a sophisticated introduction. This also creates a feeling of uncertainty and mystery as the sea can be perceived as a desolate place. From which the audience can gather information of the setting before the characters have been introduced. In the following shot we see a collection of matches being struck, this shows the contrast of environment in a matter of seconds, from being quiet and tranquil to dangerous and destructive. The close-up shot of the matches is almost a mini explosion itself, implying something will happen evidently towards the end of the scene.

an extreme close-up creates intricate detail.

The dark shadowed figure makes his way down to the lower deck, where a brief conversation is developing between the two characters. This now shows the audience that there is a relationship between them both. The concealed character is wearing a trench coat and it appears that he is also wearing a gold watch. This demonstrates that he is a man of authority due to the impression of his wealth and power. Also the way the two characters are positioned shows the transition of power between them, as the the villain is standing in a commanding manner compared to the victim. The is a lot of tension between the couple, but the smoke from the cigarette cuts it, until the gun is pulled out. The soundtrack and music plays a key role in this sequence as it does create tension as well as a sense of the unknown, especially when the villain appears. This furthermore shows that this is a crime thriller by the use of gun and props etc alongside the representation of characters. The audience can also quite clearly identify a victim and a villain.

Characterisation and setting is established.

The opening scene of the 'Usual Suspects' is effective as the theme is nautical and mysterious, but also chaotic and destructive. The range of close-up shots mainly come into focus, noticeably in front of and around the fire as it is the boat which explodes in the end, building towards a climax. The opening can almost be seen as a 'fuse', due to the way it slowly builds up and causes destruction at the end of the scene. But I believe that it is the non-chronological order of the opening that makes it effective, due to the immediate importance of the explosion which then afterwards leads to a flashback and sets a different time period."

mise-en-scene helps establish the genre

with these certain shots.