This document analyzes and summarizes elements found in the opening scenes of three gangster films: American Gangster, Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, and Goodfellas. Some common elements identified include: titles displayed in black and white in an old/smart font style, titles lasting 3-5 seconds, use of non-diegetic music and some diegetic music, voiceovers to provide context, low lighting and dark tones to set a dramatic atmosphere, quick cuts and pacing to engage the audience, and establishing shots along with mid and close-up shots of characters.