OPENING SCENE ANALYSIS MATTHEW MORPHY

THE USUAL SUSPECTS

The usual suspects is a crime thriller. The first scene opens on a boat late at night. The plot of the film is about what exactly happened on the ship. This short opening sequence is set up to pull the audience into the story and grabs their attention. It does not only tell us more about the story but is also full of clues that give the audience a hint on what did actually occur on that night.

This shot intelligently fades in from the black background to moonlight waters, which immediately suggests to the viewer what the setting of this opening scene may be, gradual revelations like this are key to atmosphere building and is therefore a technique i could look to replicate.Gentle orchestral music begins to play to further infer the gradual development in importance of the sequence, showing the importance of the soundtrack in inference as well as to build tension- a feature which i would love to replicate in the music in my film opening.

In this next shot, a larger font, and block capital letters are used to connote that this phrase is the title of the film. Very simplistic however, demonstrating that it does want to attract too much of the viewers attention.

The opening sequence occurs chronologically and relate clearly to each other as the scene does not change location. The establishing shows some mise-en scene of a shot of an extreme close up of a match being lit. The fire is pre-empting danger and contrasts with the water surrounding the boat. The audience is then introduced to a character named Keaton with a medium shot of the burning ship and several dead men around it. This tells the audience that there has potentially been a gun fight which suit the films genre.

In this next shot, the mysterious 'Keyser Söze' is shown for the first time. The low angle shot of the dark figure, connotes his power and importance in this opening scene (in contrast to Keaton, who is sitting down on a lower deck). The effect of the position of characters in scene is something which i would consider as it alludes to the audience the power and prominence of each character, although in my film i may consider making a little less obvious as it creates more mystery, and the plot is unlikely to as intelligent as The Usual Suspects' plot. Soze is shown to be stopping the trail of fire from spreading using water- thus confusing the viewer of his intentions in this scene.

This next shot shows Soze using a cigarette lighter. The theme of fire is therefore added to, connoting the imminent explosive danger within this scene. The conversation between Keaton and Soze is the only sound at this point, signifying its importance (once again showing the convenience and positives to dropping the music when there is dialogue.

Another character known as Keyser pulls out a gun from his pocket. He then fires two shots, after that ambiguity is created by cutting to various long shots and very long shots of the boat and its immediate surroundings so althoughthe audience does not see the violence orKeaton’s death, the audience can heavily imply it.This is a common technique used in thrillers.

Throughout the whole sequence, there isemphasis of edgy, anxious and dramaticatmosphere because the camera focuses brieflyon a leaking water pipe, which builds up moretension, suspense, but also futility as the the camera then cuts sharply to a close up of Keyser’s gloved hand dropping a cigarette almost carelessly, this starts a fire and ignites a trail of Flammable substance. Keyser’s body is seen Climbing down the ladder and escaping before Boat explodes.

The camera slowly zooms into a large spool of Rope, cutting away to snaking flames, past deadBodies and flumes of smoke. The camera Continues to zoom in on the ropes, this might beTricking the audience into a sense of entrapment.The music used throughout the scene also helpsBuild the tension and creates an atmosphere.

At the sight of the roaring flames, the tempo of the music increases, and the melody becomes louder and more urgent- this is effective because the scene and the music reach a crescendo simultaneously. This has a spectacular effect on the viewer, enabling them to know that the damage has been done in this scene- and furthermore this confuses and intrigues them to the outcome of this film. The combination of the striking visuals and powerful music is something very effective and inspiring, as i would like to use a similar combination in my film- as it is very striking.

THE DEPARTED

The Departed is a crime thriller. It starts off with the credits, we have a short sequence of the film company Warner Bros, a distribution company that part of ‘The Big 5’. It says ‘presents’ but then doesn’t state the film title it states the location and how many years ago. This gives a sense of mystery that we are expecting to see the film title but we go straight into the film, following this narration occurs.

The first scene is of a fight which then leadsTo school buses with children on. The way itIs filmed is filmed like it is an old film, this Links in with the credits at the beginning Because it said ‘some years ago’ so it Justifies that we have gone back in time. It Shows an African American girl on a bus Which could signify a period of time when Racism was a norm in society. Some Mise-en scene is this sequence would be The smashed up glass and the presence of Police men. This tells the audience that it was A violent time or a time that was rich with Crime.

After this there is a sequence of a man smoking a cigarette walking through what looks like aMechanics garage, he is a black silhouette so we Can’t see what he looks like or who he is.The narration then cuts out and the following sceneWe have a long shot of a shop, which then tracks Like it is the man walking, we go into the shop whereThe music dies down, the screech of a car tire is Loud which tells us that the main character might be in some sort of rush. The audience then sees a Man behind a till and he hands over money to the Main character, this tells the audience that he is Dominant over the man behind the till. The audience Still cannot see the main characters face, this Makes the audience wonder who he is. This also Tells the audience that he is a man of power Because he doesn't’t want to be seen.

The music disappears as Frank Costellos identity becomes visible, demonstrating the importance of this. His repeated words of wisdom to young Colin Sullivan appear to mold him.

This ideal is clarified by the two physical progression shots (shown to the right). Showing a focus and cold drive in the eyes remaining- despite the empathic age increase. Though it being hard to achieve in this case, a specific emotional trait running through each character may be a technique to consider for my final project, as it is powerful- and presents high level attention-to –detail.

A James bond style focus circle is used to highlight Sullivan on his day at the police office. This specialized effect creates the impression (like bond) of mistrust and infiltration, if this kind of effect could be considered effective for my style of opening sequence- I may consider using it.

This shot reverse shot introduces Staff Sgt. Sean Dignam (Mark Wahlberg), and Capt. Oliver Charles Queenan (Martin Sheen). In this interviewing scene Sullivan stands and Costigan sits- possibly suggesting the scale of authority which Dignam and Queenan feel they have over the two new recruits.

This shot introduces Alec Baldwin character cynically showing the mafia leader Costello behind him, as he briefs the new recruits. The dirtiness of Costello in contrast to the room of designer suits demonstrates the traditional differences between the law and criminals. This representation is clear, and the cinematography which enables this is powerful; specific details like this help create beautifully crafted films, and therefore this attention to detail must occur within my work.

The last two images of the opening whilst 'shipping out to Boston' belts out show the contrast of lives between Costigan (an honest man) and Sullivan (crooked from his early years). This injustice plays on the viewers minds throughout the film, adjusting viewpoints on situations. This direct life comparison would difficult to achieve in a 3 minute opening, however it has a unique effect on the viewer through the clever but powerful injustice.

The title 'The Departed' finishes the opening off, the plain font once again creates a documentary style impression.

NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

A simple white font contrast with the black background, simply does not grab the viewers attention as the film makers would rather they remained patiently tense.

Dawn in Texas is a very beautiful but yet meaningful shot(s) as it signals the start of another day for the Sheriff of a state of outlaws. This double meaning meaning in stunning cinematography is something i could only hope to replicate- as it demonstrates high level work to the examiners, and also adds a fresh dimension to my work.

This incredible landscape shot confirms the films western thriller genre, due to the undeniable combination of beauty and the large chilling shadows. The use of light in this is very important and building tension, therefore the murderer lurking around in my film opening could become a dark figure in a shadowy background in order to chill the viewer.

The use of light for perception is used to full effect here as the figure all in black is in handcuffs, and could well be one of the savage criminals which the Sheriff was discussing- thus the antagonist

The prop of the gas canister is used well to create confusion for the viewer who naturally becomes undecided to whether it is a weapon, or simply miscellaneous.

The final beautiful shots shows the singular road out of the rural area, inferring the danger of isolation when murderous criminals are about.

PANIC ROOM

Police sirens echo in the darkness. Assuming this is diegetic sound, it certainly juxtaposes from the rest of the opening sequence (which is grand and secretive), although having personally watched the whole film more than once- it must be said that this could show to be revealing what is to happen at the film (obviously only a small amount). The police sirens confuse the viewer early on (a common trait in thrillers), but definitely connote the danger which is run throughout the entire film.

Shores dark orchestral music starts, a slow surrounding shot from in the air (in line with skyscrapers). The floating typography is shown for the first time. This demonstrates the mystery and negative power of this unknown city. This gives me a good example of something which would be effective to replicate in my film opening; the combination of the chilling music building atmosphere, with the bold but mysterious titles, and finally but most importantly the striking sight of the skyscrapers. These combinations are evidently effective in building tension, and luring in the viewer; and are certainly something which the larger cinema screens will increase the effects of.

A new rotation shot (90 degrees possibly)- camera straight on, close on building- showing main character Jodie Fosters name in the floaty typograthy.This shows deliberate emphasis on her name being incredibly grand, and in being shown first in order to show the importance of the characters. Exact same shot used for Forrest Whittakers name to be shown- another main character. The importance of having big names in film like this is great, due to the fact that it lures the viewer into total attention, as the average viewer likes knowing an acclaimed actor is in it, this is something which i will contemplate doing in my film- depending on whether I want to aim it at the wide thriller/murder mystery audience, or if I want to give a more British, alternative feel to the genre, in which case big names would be less necessary.

High angled shot showing a still town scene (a bill board of a women- probably a model, very prominent mise-en-scene as it emphasis the portrayal of realism of the events which further increase the tension, as it becomes more relatable to a wider audience).Lesser character Dwight Yoakams position in the film could be connoted by this vast aerial high angle shot- looking down on his name.

A rotating close up of a building- showing Jared Letos name blending in with the building-suggesting he could be a sinister character within the film. What this blending effect suggests/infers will be picked up very easily by the viewer, by setting this situation out, the cinematographer is allowing the viewer to become more involved with the film; which for a focused, mildly intelligent audience (noticing the inference) is very effective in establishing engagement.

A long slow rotation- showing a long shot of the massive typography- this time bigger than before, reading the words 'PANIC ROOM'. The capitals obviously infer that it is the title of the film, and also they are used important in ultimately demonstrating the danger portrayed in this film. The use of the powerful capitals and font, alongside the most striking visual of the skyscrapers so far, is an effect which in an alternative manner of course i would like to replicate, as it undoubtedly is enjoyed and remembered by the viewer, as well as increasingly engaging them in the undeveloped plot. This film opening has taught me the importance of striking visuals, combined with atmosphere building music- as it has the profound effect of engaging the viewer in the film- despite them knowing virtually nothing about the story-line.

In this time period the music changes- becoming more urgent. Kristen Stewart's name shown in smaller writing in a still high angle shot- arguably suggests her young age, and consequently her vulnerability.

For the next 40-45 seconds, the same pattern of shots continue. Rather than continuing to show you the screen shots repetitively, it would be more worthwhile summarizing the intentions of the repeating pattern of title shots. The high angle stills of the surrounding city are to show the vastness and the mystery possible within this entire film. The rotating high angle shots, could be considered to create the impression that the large bold typography are floating like dark clouds. The floating typography has connotations of danger, through its dark colouring, and the fact that through the illusion of them floating- they seem to be uncontrollably lurking- like criminals in the city.

The music fades- allowing the viewer to hear Jodie Foster (the main character)- speaking for the first time in the film. Whilst a large low angle still of the sky scrapers seen from a park (the first obvious human inclusive view in the entire film coincides with the first line) - showing David Fincher's name in-front of them, in order to show his imposing influence on this film. The effect of the imposing director credit, is certainly something i hope to emulate in my film as it emphatically would show my influence on the film and would leave the viewer in no doubt to who was important in the film making process.

THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS

At the beginning of the opening scene there is a high angle of Jodie Foster doing some exercises, this shows the audience that she looks weak in this shot and that she is small in stature, so right from the beginning of the opening scene she is made to look small and weak like she is through the rest of the clip. There is also a close up shot of her face when she is running, this shows the audience that she is very determined by her facial expression, this also tells us more about her personality and we know after this shot that she isn’t someone who is willing to give up easily. There is also a two shot of Jodie Foster and a man in an FBI hat, this shot shows the audience that she works for the FBI and it also makes the the point that she is small again, which makes her look we but we know that she isn’t by her determination in other shots like the running shots. There is a low angle shot

of Jodie on top of the cargo net, this shows the audience that she is strong because she is climbing the net but it also makes her look weak because she is struggling which is strange because low angle shot’s usually show how powerful someone is. After the two shot there is a close up of the man in an FBI hat, this shot makes the audience wonder what he’s thinking because of his facial expression, which is quite serious, and it makes us think that he is worried about Jodie’s character.

At the end of the clip there is a focus pull from Jodie to Crawford, this shows us that while she is important, Crawford is equally as important or the director wouldn’t have made us focus on him instead of Jodie.When she is in Crawford’s office and looking around there is a tracking shot, when the camera moves in on her face, this shows the audience that she has seen something that she is very interested in and something that seems to link to the story or it wouldn’t have been included in this scene. At the beginning of the clip there is a crane shot, this sets the scene for the audience but also from the height of the camera it also makes Jodie Foster look very small when she enters the shot. There is a shallow focus shot when she is walking down the corridor in the middle of the clip, this shows us that she is the most important and the rest of the people aren’t important.

Towards the end of the opening scene there is a medium shot of Jodie in a lift with men, the framing of this shot shows the audience that she is a lot smaller then the men and this makes her look weak and out of place and the mens facial expressions show that they don’t want her there because they can tell she is out of place as well.

During the clip there is an eye-line match at the end, this shows the audience what Jodie is looking at but it also shows the audience that what she is looking at is important to story. After Jodie gets out the lift there is a sequence shot of her walking down the corridor to Crawford’s office, this shows us that she is important as the camera follows her and doesn’t follow anyone else. There is also a fade at the beginning which gives off a peaceful feeling but the music contradicts the peacefulness of the scene. There is also a match-on-action

The first music we hear in the clip is a non diegetic orchestral score that has a very minor key which gives of a very mysterious and tense atmosphere during the scene, this makes the audience believe that something bad is going to happen but it doesn’t and this builds up more tension for the audience who are waiting for something bad to happen to her. While Jodie is running the music increases in speed and and there are some added string instruments, this adds more tension to the scene and makes it look like she is running away from something which she isn’t. Towards the end of the clip the non diegetic music starts again when she see’s the board of photos about the murders, this add’s more drama to the shot and it tells the audience that what she is looking at is important.

this gives the audience a deeper connection with her character so we care about what happens to her. During the scene where she is running, she run’s into some mist and this symbolizes her going to something that she doesn’t know and having to find her way out. Before she enters Crawford’s office there is a scene where she talks to some FBI agents and the man to the right is looking at her like the men in the lift were looking at her, this shows us that a lot of people can tell that she doesn’t belong in that area of the academy. When she enters Crawford’s office, we can tell a lot about Crawford’s character by looking at his office and his decorations, because he has very old fashioned and ornate decorations, this shows us that he has a taste for finer things in life and that he is smart because we can see his plagues and certificates on his wall.

During the shot when she is in lift the men are wearing red shirts where as Jodie is wearing a grey sweat shirt, this shows the audience that she is out of place in this shot and doesn’t fit in with the rest of the people in that particular area. At the beginning of the clip and during the rest of it as well, Jodie is very sweaty, this shows the audience that she is very hardworking and her sweat shirt shows us that she is in the FBI,