The Dark Knight (Christopher Nolan, 2008, USA)

Titles

There are no titles shown during the opening sequence of the movie. At the end of the title sequence, 'Dark Knight' is shown against a black background. The 'dark' knight is shown against a dark background to emphasize the genre.

Setting/Location

The setting is revealed right at the beginning of the film. An establishing shot presents high city buildings and skyscrapers. Rather than keep this hidden from the audience to create curiosity, it is shown straight away. However, the actions of the characters involved in this sequence creates interest as the viewers are not aware straight away as to what the characters are doing. Various different shots of the environment are shown during this high budget sequence. Extreme long shots of the city as well as close up shots of the bank. The lighting is dim, making the overall scene more appropriate to the genre.

Cinematography/Editing

Various different camera angles and shots have been used through out this title sequence. Close ups are common in opening sequences as to not give much away and keep the audience's interest. Also, extreme long shots and establishing shots present the setting. This particular title sequence does not use close up shots as much as regular sequences. This has focused more on setting up the villian's character by showing the viewers that he is heartless and clever. Hyperbolic sounds are used in places such as when the gun is fired, when the grabbling gun is fired and when the bus crashes through the wall. This will have a bigger impact on the audience. Simple cut transitions are used in this title sequence.

How the characters are introduced

The characters involved in the opening sequence all have hidden identities. They wear masks as they are robbing a bank. The main villain, 'The Joker' is introduced at the end of this opening sequence by him defeating/escaping the bank with the money. He managed to do this through clever planning, betraying his accomplices. This gives us a good impression of the type of character he is, and how unpredictable this film is going to be.