The document discusses the codes and conventions of film openings. It states that the aim of any film opening is to hook the audience for the entire film. It then notes that film openings are typically 2 to 5 minutes long and introduce key characters, an establishing setting and genre, and a pre-plot or beginning narrative. Finally, it mentions that film openings usually include a key event that affects the plot or characters and contain production company logos and credits.

1. James Barlow
Media Studies Research
Film Openings
Codes and Conventions

2. James Barlow
Media Studies Research
The Aim
The aim of any film opening, of any
genre, is to ‘Hook’ the audience for the
entirety of the film.
Although most films try to follow the
general principal of this statement, the
techniques used can be determined by
genre and/or personal preference.

3. James Barlow
Media Studies Research
Codes and Conventions
Film openings are around 2 to 5 minutes in length.
Tend to introduce key character/s.
(Protagonist, Antagonist etc…)
Often introduce a pre plot or a beginning narrative.
(Although this can vary)
Establishes setting and genre.
(An example of a genre that is usually immediately established would be action e.g. a
James Bond opening sequence; whilst horror tends to have a period of character preplot before the main event of that story will occur e.g. The Women in Black.)

4. James Barlow
Media Studies Research
Codes and Conventions (Continued)
A key event that affects the plot or characters in
some way will occur.
All films will have supporting and producing
company idents at the top of the film.
(Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, Disney etc…)
Key credits shown e.g. Director, Producer etc…
The use of frequent non diegetic sound is also
very common.