The opening scene of Valentine's Day establishes the romantic comedy genre. It shows a man proposing to his girlfriend in bed on Valentine's Day morning. The mise-en-scene depicts the characters in a bedroom with natural lighting, wearing white clothes to represent purity and unity. Camera work includes an establishing shot of the city and close-ups of the characters' faces. Diegetic ambient sounds are used to create realism. Non-diegetic music and a radio narration set the romantic theme. When the woman accepts the proposal, loud happy music and her excited response convey the characters' joy. Editing uses continuity and dissolves for a seamless narrative.

1. Valentine’s Day Genre: ROMANTIC COMEDY http://www.megavideo.com/?v=M50PKD43

2. Opening Scene First scene: The opening scene of “ valentine’s day” identifies main setting with a extreme long shot. Sun set scenery/location Early morning sun set in the city. The first shot is the opening title which uses sans serif font in the middle of the screen against the background. The lettering is in white which stands out against the blue sky setting. The first few title reads “New Line Cinema Presents” and next “a Wayne/karz Entertainment production” and “a Garry Marshal Film” these titles publicize the viewers of the production company. The next title reads “Valentine’s Day” uses a script typeface which is different from the other two titles. This stands out as it highlights the most important title of film. This is the initial indication that the genre of “Valentine’s Day” is of romance. The font is informal , elegant and dainty and is associated with love, romance. There is Aerial shot – This is a shot from high or directly above the action – suggests observation, and it also establishes the setting & location of scene.

3. MISE-EN-SCENE The first scene: Setting in the bedroom Man and woman lying in bed together. Medium shot then close up of the man& prop his holding, and looking at engagement ring. This is an effective shot as it concentrates on expression of character's face and allows the viewers to identify with character. It also foreshadows what is about to happen-proposal to female character. The next shot is a close up of woman character lying in bed sleeping. The first scene is very significant as it shows that the two characters are linked. Character proposes to woman Happy Valentines day. Characters' wearing simple clothing, both wearing all white clothing this suggest a sense of unity and relationship between characters. The white symbolises usually a positive connotation. White can represent a successful beginning, (fresh start),purity innocence, virginity and cleanliness. Lighting- available lighting/ambient lighting-general lighting from the sun coming directly into the room. Sets the scene indicates the time of day (morning). Natural lighting - light is used by the film to create a certain mood or atmosphere- conveys a sense of realism. Male character kneeling down to propose to female character conveys a sense of affection and respect between characters. It also makes the female character look dominant as she is above him. A mark of respect and loyalty he has for her. He cares a lot about her. Showing affection. in addition links back to one of the most important themes of the film.

4. CAMERA WORK Opening scene: Extreme long shot -general used as a scene setting, establishing shot. Shows exterior e.g. outside , landscape shot. This gives a general impression of scenery/location. Camera angle/movement/position-Pan to follow action, to refocus and anticipate on what's going to happen after that. Reverse shot – This shows a conversation/ link or reaction between characters. a connection, relationship. Close-up shot of character's faces– This shot focuses and increases the attention of the audience – intensity, intimacy and identification of characters. Close up of prop- the ring this represents the main focus of their action. He puts the ring on her finger symbolises unity and love. Mid-shot – This shot shows the general action of the movie– closeness without intimacy. Point of view – when the characters are having conversation- This is a shot were we see what the actor sees through their own eyes –identification/ sympathy with the viewers.

5. SOUND Diegetic sound-Ambient sound- This is background sound that comes from the action, such as wind blowing, cars horn, birds chirping , dog barking – reinforces the mood/ the reality of the film. Natural sounds to create a sense of realism or emotional involvement in the audience. Voice over of unseen narrator (Radio commentator)- this is used in the beginning of the film, the effect is that it helps describe the film. It helps establish theme of the film. Insightful for the viewers at the start. E.g. Talks about Valentine’s Day – voiceovers often guides or informs the audience. Narrative directions The fast upbeat music played uses has words of love . This re-emphasiesone of the main themes of the film. Love The music starts to decrease and fades as the male character gradually gets up from his bed. This is used as a smooth transition. The slow solemn melody played to accompany action male character proposing to female. Music is used effectively to change the transition into the next scene . It also demonstrates character reaction “scream” yell of gladness/loud laughter suggest happiness “YES” the positive language used also suggest character’s feelings/emotions . -loudness, and upbeat music conveys characters emotions he feels a sense of happiness, joy and contentment that she has accepted his request.

6. EDITING Continuity editing- Editing that creates action that flows smoothly across shots and scenes without harshly visual interruption. Establishes a sense of story for the viewer. The sequence is cut together- to make it appear natural and seamless. Dissolve- A gradual scene transition, one frame disappears gradually to be replaced by another - suggests the passage or time or a transformation.