I really enjoyed this opening sequence as all of the elements seemed very thought through and deliberate. The establishing shot, suggests that the protagonist is not particularly wealthy and from a slightly rough area. This means that the film is more likely be relatable for people in the demographic E-C (possible C2) which will engage this demographic. It is also made very clear who the protagonist is, which engages a younger audience. You also get a feel as to the protagonists personality, as he seems slightly troubled, which makes the audience engage with the narrative as they already have a question to answer. (Why is he troubled?)
Narrative wise, the sequence goes straight into the narrative, and straight into an action scene. This instantly engages the audience and tells them the genre.
I found the use of music very engaging as it used to increase the tension and suspense, which engages the audience, making them want to stay to see more. It was fast beat and the constant beeping connotes a heart monitor which suggests that the film is action.
I liked the subtle use of text and how it blended into the background at times, but at others it popped out. Like at the start, how the institutional information was placed on the top of the building. The typography worked in synergy with the music in creating a action feel to the film.
The use of editing made the scene flow and fit together very well. Very few straight jump cuts were used (they always faded in and out,) This made sure to keep the energy constantly high.
If I could change anything about this sequence I would possibly have had a bit less action and more dialogue, to disclose more about the narrative and create more of sense of an equilibrium. I may have also of had the typography bolder and less ambient, to make sure everyone gets the credit they deserve, as sometimes it did get lost in the action.
I feel like out of these two opening sequences this one would have got the higher mark, as the conventions used were very clear and you could tell who the target audience was.
I found it interesting how at the start of the sequence, a rating for the film was shown. This is a very clear way of showing the target audience, but also warning the audience about the content of the film.
The first shot of the sequence shows bloody hands being tied up with some dirty rope. This already gives away a lot about the narrative, as it shows that someone has been hurt and is being held somewhere against their will (working in synergy with the title.) You then see a close up of the captured character which suggests that he is the protagonist, the mise-en-scenes use of make-up shows that the character is hurt, creating pathos in the audience.
The use of sound is very affective and subtle. The non-diegetic music creates an eerie atmosphere and moments sound diegetic, which adds to the tension. The use of diegetic sound is also effective as it makes you feel sorry for the character and makes you watch on as you want to know if he gets out or not.
In general, the mise-en-scene is appropriate for the genre, but I believe to increase the tension and suspense even more, they should have used more low-low-lighting to make it feel more mysterious
This video is very good quality in audio and visual.
Learning Comment
I found this task very useful as it enhanced my knowledge of codes and conventions of opening sequences, but also made me aware of what I would be capable of as I do not have access to professional equipment. I have also been made aware on how to create atmospheres for different genres.
One element that made both of these opening sequences engaging was the quality of the videos. When making my opening sequence I should try and make it good quality to get my ideas across clearly.
I have picked two high graded pieces of work, so this research has made me aware of what I have to do to get the highest grade I can achieve.
