Film openings are typically around 2 minutes long. They introduce either the main character or the pre-plot setting up the story. Key information like the year, location, and cast and crew credits are also established. A conventional example is the opening of Saw 2, which includes title credits, production logos, establishes the setting, and previews the theme of causing pain.

1. S
Conventions of film
openings
Hannah Smith

2. 5 CONVENTIONS
S Approximately 2 minutes long.
S Tends to introduce either the main character OR the pre plot
(ie, the story up until the film starts).
S Sets the scene (eg, year of setting, location, etc.)
S Tends to contain credits introducing key cast and crew
members.
S Starts with the names and/or logos of production companies,
etc.

3. A good example….
S A good example of a conventional film opening is that of
the Saw movies. The example I have given a link to is the
intro of Saw 2. It includes title credits, shows the
production company logos, sets the location for the
majority of the film, and also shows the audience the
basis of the film (ie, someone causing someone else
extreme pain).
S http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iB3OSbaHHc