An opening sequence involves establishing the story line and setting the tone of the programme or film. This is done through the use of specific visuals and sounds, as well as the cast names and possibly other cast credits, created by production companies. Opening sequences of films tend to differ, as some only involve the text of the opening credits. However, other films prefer to use their opening sequence to set the scene of the movie.
Bourne Supremacy is an action spy thriller, released by Universal Pictures. The opening sequence first begins with the production title’s name appearing on the screen. By doing this, it is clear to the audience as to who the film has been released by. As well as this, the title credits adds ownership to the film.
During this opening sequence, there is no cast credits. This is because Universal Pictures have decided to establish the characters and location instead. Mis-en-scene has been used to achieve this, through the use of props, costume and make up.
Firstly, the the watch worn by the male character of the opening sequence shows that he is punctual, or lives by a strict schedule. This is expected, as the genre of Bourne Supremacy is action spy, thriller. Therefore, characters would need to be punctual, as well as have good time management to use efficiently. The character above is also wearing a vest top, as well as a short hair cut. Tight fitting clothes and well groomed hair, indicates that the character is very confident, which is ideal, as action spy films consist of brave, courageous characters.
Before this scene, Universal Pictures use editing in the opening sequence to engage the audience and create suspense. Special effects are used to add pictures from an anonymous family, as well as show a bumpy ride in a random car. This is ideal for the Bourne Supremacy opening sequence, as it keeps the audience intrigued, and creates an enigma code, as to why there is a car and where the car is possibly travelling to. The point of view shot enhances a sense of realism and audience involvement in the action.
Other enigma codes also include the flashes of the family, before and after the scene of a gun, emphasising on the curiosity of the story line. Cinematography is also used during this part of the opening sequence, as a close up shot is used to focus only on the male within the photo. Having a close up of the male, then quick editing between him and the gun, creates a clear link between the two, contributing to the story line of the film. This almost acts as a story board as to what has caused the plot of the film to take place. Non- diegetic sound also takes place, creating a gloomy, horror tone, with the use a soundtrack.
Mis-en-scene is later used to enhance the genre of Bourne Supremacy. Low key lighting allows the location or character to seem shady or perhaps dangerous or unsafe. However, with the location being a bedroom, the characters body language tells us that he feels safe and comfortable within his surroundings and has no fear.
Body language and props are used further within the Borne Supremacy opening sequence to establish the personality traits of the characters. We witness a female character enter the scene, to check up on the male character by touching his forehead, to see how he is feeling. This shows that she cares for him, and that they may be significant for each other. Straight after we see the female exercise this care, by using the cloth as a prop, to cool down the back of the male’s neck. In addition, sound is used to present the relationship between the two characters. The voice and tone of the dialogue between them is very quiet and bland, creating a cautious mood, or the idea that they may be hiding something. The male character dismissing the voluntary help and concern of the female character also shows the power which he has over her.
From studying the opening sequence of Bourne Supremacy, I have learnt that it is essential to thoughtfully plan out every aspect, from mis-en-scene to editing. This is because, great detail allows the plot of the film to come across much clearer to the audience and can create useful enigma codes for the film. Moreover, I will concentrate on dialogue, and that voice and tone are thought through also, to match the decided genre.
0 comments:
Post a Comment