The opening sequence of Sweeney Todd establishes the dark and gloomy setting of 19th century London through panning shots of chimney tops under a dark, foggy sky. It then draws the viewer's eye to a barber shop window, hinting that much of the story will take place there. Foreshadowing future events, a trail of blood is shown trickling down the barber chair and into the basement, taking the same path that bodies will later be disposed of. Through its deep, suspenseful orchestral music and low-key, shadowy lighting, the sequence sets the thriller genre and dark tone for the film.