Famous Opening Sequences

For this task I researched into ten different opening sequences, I analysed films from a range of genres so that I could closely see the codes and conventions of films from each of the genres and their similarities and differences. 

Learning Comment

From this task I have learnt that most film opening sequences have the institutional information and logo of which company produced and directed the film. I have also learnt that opening film credits include the lead actors and actresses, the writer and director but they also include the names and roles of the set leaders, for example “costume designer”.

I have also discovered that the music from the opening sequence fits the tone and theme of the film. For example the fast tempo music from the start of the Kingsman film fits the action-packed theme of the rest of the film.

From this task I recognised that in the majority of the opening film sequences such as Grease, Gladiator, Silence of the lambs, Now You See Me, Kingsman, Forrest Gump; the main characters and their backgrounds were introduced within the first few minutes of the opening sequence.

The tone of the film is set within the first couple of minutes through the music, the high and low key lighting, such as Gladiator features a lot of low key lighting within the first few minutes, connoting that this will be a serious thought provoking film. Whereas Footloose is filmed in mostly high key lighting to connote the light-hearted nature of the film. 

Non-diegetic noises such as music and sound affects were used to further amplify the tone of the film for example in the opening of the action film Kingsman gunshots and explosions to emphasize the fast-paced and exciting atmosphere. 

My favourite opening was Now You See Me as I found it to be the most exciting and attention grabbing of all of them as it attracts your attention and makes you instantly want to know more. The appeal of this film is further increased by the dialogue and non-diegetic music which builds at the right moment to create suspense and excitement which left me wanting to finish the film to know what is going to happen.