i) What forms can opening sequences take? Can you list the conventional features of opening sequences?
Opening sequences always take on a different form. They are each unique and relevant to the film they are trying to introduce. Some work better than others but they all stick to the same conventions in order to achieve the desired effect. The main conventions of opening sequences are as follows:
Characters - The main characters are usually always introduced in an opening sequences. The hero/heroine is usually focused on more than any other character in order for the audience to connect with them. Details about the main character are established that will hint on events that may happen later in the film.
Setting - A wide establishing shot is usually the first thing seen in an opening sequence in order to establish the setting of the film. This is extremely important so the audience can can be drawn into the film. It also can give a massive hint to the genre of the film.
Plot - A key feature of an opening sequence is to introduce what may happen in the narrative of a film. Hints have to be made throughout to start get the audience guessing to as what may happen later in the film. This makes the audience hooked and makes them stay to watch the entirety of the film which is probably the main function of an opening sequence.
ii) What narrative functions of opening sequences can you identify?
Functions of an opening sequence:
- Establish main characters
- Establish genre
- To hook the audience
- Give hints to what may happen later in the film
- Establish the equilibrium at the beginning of the film
Audiences gain many things from watching an opening sequence. The first is a general idea of what the film is about. This includes the genre of the film and an audience member will easily be able tell if they are going to enjoy the film or not. A second gain from watching an opening sequence is for the audience to start relating to the characters. Emotional links should be made between the two so the audience can relate to the hero/heroines actions. Audiences also gain the ability to guess what may happen later in the film. This is key because they need to have something to look forward to/be scared of later in the film.
iv) What do film-makers gain from including an opening sequence?
From including an opening sequence the film maker gains the ability to hook the audience to their film in a short space of time. This makes the audience consume the entirety of the text and therefore film makers have achieved what they aim to do. Without an interesting opening the audience may quickly get bored and not watch a film leading to low ratings for the film and poor reviews from critics.
