Analyzing Film Openings

                                               

                                                                   

(source - Google)

I analyzed the opening sequence of this movie called A QUIET PLACE (2018). As my genre was horror and mystery, I chose this particular film sequence.

Camera Shots : 

Wide Shot, close-up shot, over-the-shoulder shot, Establishing Shot and POV Shot

Camera Angles : 

High angle and Low angle

Sound:

The sequence is full of sign language; therefore, we can only hear non-diegetic sounds and in diegetic sound, we can hear the footsteps and the toy plane sound before the monster comes.

Mis - en - scene

Setting: 

We can see the sequence is set in a deserted small-town drugstore. The emptiness and abandonment of the location immediately convey the post-apocalyptic world. The overgrown vegetation, broken shelves, and lack of human presence highlight that society has collapsed, creating an unsettling backdrop for the story. 

Costume and Makeup:

The family members wear slightly worn clothes, reflecting their struggle to survive in their harsh environment. The costumes lack bright colors, ensuring the characters blend into the environment and avoid attracting attention, which ties into the survival theme.

This opening sequence shows the insights of the story and the scene itself connecting to the title of the movie by showcasing that even a small sound can harm and that the monster will kill them. 

(Source - Google)

Secondly, I analyzed the opening sequence of the movie SMILE (2022).

Camera Shots:

 Mid Shot, Long Shot, Two Shot and Close-Up Shot

Camera Angles: 

180 degree

Sound:

The sound of the sequence is diegetic as it was fully conversations between the two characters. 

Mis - en - scene 

Setting: 

We can see that the sequence is set in the clinical environment of a Psychiatric hospital, which creates a cold atmosphere. This mirrors the themes of mental health and emotional trauma that are central to the film. The use of dim lighting and muted tones enhances a sense of dread and unease, making the space feel eerie. 

Costume and Makeup:

The protagonist, Dr. Rose Cotter, wears professional attire, which reflects her role as a psychiatrist and contracts with the appearance of her patient. Her clinical outfit grounds her as a rational figure in a chaotic situation. The patient's wide eyes, pale complexion and body language signify their terror and the supernatural element tied to the sequence.

I analyzed the first two minutes of this sequence.

This opening sequence shows the insights of the story that the patient Laura claims to be haunted by an entity that takes the form of smiling people and taking her own life with a chilling smile builds suspense and terror to the rest of the film.

(Source - Google)

Finally, I analyzed the movie ABIGAIL (2024) opening sequence.

Camera Shots: 

Close - Up Shot, Wide Shot, POV Shot, Mid Shot, Two Shot and Over the shoulder Shot 

Camera Angles:

 High angle, Low angle and 180 degree

Sound:

The sound of the sequence starts with the diegetic sound of the footsteps of the protagonist and the conversations between the two characters. On the non-diegetic sound, like ballet dance, a song can be heard till the end.

Mis - en - scene

Setting:

We can see that the sequence opens in a mysterious lighting on the stage, implementing that it is going to be a dance concert. The environment reflects a world where magic evokes a sense of decay and secrecy. 

This setting immediately establishes the film’s tone, a mix of fantasy and horror, while suggesting the larger conflict within the narrative.

Costume and Makeup: 

The protagonist is introduced in a modest outfit, wearing Victorian-inspired costumes mixed with an aesthetic that highlights her humble beginnings but hints at her journey of empowerment. The costumes set the time period and contribute to world-building while reflecting Abigail’s innocence and potential.

I also analyzed the first two minutes of this sequence.

This opening sequence shows the insight of the story that we first see Abigail rehearsing Swan Lake on a dimly lit stage, and not only showcases her dedication to her craft but also pays homage to the classic 1931 opening of Dracula.

Learning Outcome

Analyzing film openings has helped me to get some ideas like how to do an opening sequence and got some opening scene ideas for my genre, Horror-Mystery.