Analyzing Film Openings

Film Opening 1: Knives Out

The film opening starts with an establishing shot of a dark and gloomy mansion. This shot immediately sets the tone for the opening and provides sufficient context to the viewer. Thrombey's mansion is surrounded by a dark forest as well as a dramatic lighting. The mansion itself is filled with tiny little figures make the viewer slightly uncomfortable, almost as if they are potential hints. Moving on, having the woman search for Thrombey with breakfast establishes almost a boss and employee relationship. This character development reveals the dynamics of the family to the viewer. As the viewer approches the climax, they are introduced to what seems to be a dead Thrombey. The movie ends with the cliffhanger, encouraging the viewer to go and watch the full film. 

Film Opening 2: Sherlock Holmes (2009)

This opening has a very creative way to style and list the credits. The film starts and ends with flashes of characters interacting, while also, every few seconds, capturing a "snapshot" of the character and listing the credits next to them (as exemplified in the picture). Each time the frame freezes, it illustrates a gritty and old-timeish texture. This art style is extremely clever due to, not only it being very unique, but also because it is now easier to recognize and it also how it reinforces the creative style of this movie opening. The brief interactions between characters are shown to highlight some of the charaters' personality traits and habits. The sudden pauses can also be taken as implied foreshadowing, in other words, the viewer should expect the characters to be more thoroughly developed later on in the film. The explosive music also creates a fiery tone that can be interpreted as a sign of action and mystery.

Film Opening 3: National Treasure

The film opens with upbeat music and a conversation between some guys. They are getting closer to the apparent treasure and their conversation is very light-hearted and comedic. As they get closer to the treasure, they stop and peep out to view the massive mountain terrain in front of them. This creates a mystery tone by putting out the unknown right in the open. This can also lead to hesitation and the viewers are likely lost. Having the crew scout the land by foot with metal detectors shows the viewer the passion they have for trying to find the ship. They eventually find the ship and celebrate, acknowledging their effort has paid off.