Opening Sequence Analysis - Conclusion

After looking at five opening sequences from different genres (comedy, action, rom-com, thriller and sci-fi), I have noticed that opening sequences often do one or more of the following:

• The main protagonists and important characters are introduced, and their character traits are revealed to the audience which create expectations for the audience about how the character may act throughout the rest of the narrative

• The location is established, often through establishing shots. Often the location is important not only for the opening scene but for the film as a whole 

• Often enigma or mystery is created, through purposefully leaving out key bits of narrative information, encouraging the audience to continue watching

• Genre is clearly established through aspects of film form (such as mise-en-scene and music), plot, character types and aesthetic

Regardless of which of the above they do, opening sequences tend to also include:

• The title of the film is shown along with the credits 

• The use of company production logos

• Actors' names are presented

• The names of crew members

• Music which relates to the genre