for 'research into similar texts'

1. Opening Sequence Analysis
L/O: to know what goes into an opening sequence and be able to
analyse the codes and conventions in a variety of opening sequences

2. This is further evidence for
• ‘research into similar texts’
• (research into opening sequences’)

3. Conventions of opening sequences
To reveal the title of the film

4. Conventions of opening sequences
To reveal the title of the film Introduce main characters
Show credits to credit the cast and crew Production and distribution logo at start before showing
opening sequence
Provide narrative enigmas to hook audience Establish the setting
Usually 2-3 mins in length
(blockbusters sometimes up to 5 mins)
Establish the plot OR theme
Usually non-diegetic music to set mood
(which usually establish genre)
Establish the genre
(done in a variety of ways)

5. Example (model) for analysis
• ‘The Fugitive’ (1993) http://www.artofthetitle.com/title/the-fugitive/

6. Your 1st task Due WED
• Do analysis for 3 opening sequences for 3 crime thriller films
• Choose from the list in book (but be aware you may not be able to
find them all)
• Have a range in subgenre

7. Your 2nd task: 6-9 frame analysis (DUE WED)
• Get 9 frames from your favourite (most effective) opening sequence

8. Your 2nd task: 6-9 frame analysis
• Get 9 frames from your favourite (most effective) opening sequence
The production
company clear,
size variation to
make name
stand out
Blacks and blues
signify ‘mystery’
and crime
thriller subgenre
Credits look
bold and serious
suitable for
subgenre,
animation is
also dramatic
(connotations of
disappearance)
Night city aerial shot establishes setting and
common in crime thriller films
Flashbacks in black and
white for serious tone,
in slow motion with
ghost trail effect for
dramatic/serious effect.
Shows crime as been
committed, no reveal
of killer for narrative
enigmaActor names are in corner of frame for subtle effect and in same font, style and colour for consistency