Conventions of opening seqeunces

Conventions of opening sequences

 

 

One of the main conventions of an opening title is the movie title and opening music. The movie title will appear either at the start or the end of the opening credits. The music also is key as it sets the mood of the film while catching the audiences attention. As well as setting the mood, the opening music will suit the film genre which will build up atmosphere and possibly tension for the first scene.

 

As well as the movie title, the names of the main cast and crew including the director and producer will appear on screen. The production companies will also appear during the opening title credits.

 

 

During or after the opening credits, a main setting will be introduced as well as one or more characters, sometimes being the main roles as well as others. during this sequence, mise en scene including costumes, settings and props will be used. Editing will be apparent during the opening sequence. this could contain a montage of flashback shots from different times and settings.

 

 

Cinematography and camera work will be greatly used in the opening sequence. The sequence will include a variety of shot types including close ups to show detail and master shots to show just about everything within the scene. There should be a range of different angles and camera angles that will all contribute to build up atmosphere and give an insight to the film.

 

The genre of the film should become apparent during this sequence through camera work, music and settings. The sequence should also give an insight to the film without revealing the story of the film too much, making the audience ask questions about what will happen next.