Inception (Christopher Nolan, USA, 2010) Opening Sequence Analysis - Example of Thriller

Titles

In this particular opening sequence, the titles of important roles are not displayed at the beginning. Instead, the title Inception is shown at the end of the title sequence. All the other necessary conventions of a thriller opening sequence are presented. As shown in the screens I obtained above, many close ups are used. This is to limit the viewers visual experience, making them unaware of the surroundings and situation (sparking curiousity). Sub titles are used in this opening sequence to allow the audience to understand the chinese.

Setting/Location

The setting/location is revealed with the use of an establishing shot. It is approximately the 5th/6th shot into the sequence. The screens shown before hand are close ups of the main character and children. This visual limitation makes the viewers want to watch on to find out where they are and what they're doing there etc. The setting also contrasts with the condition of the main character and the emotion shown in his face. This itself suggests that the film is of the thriller genre. The setting is changed suddenly from the character laying on a sunny beach to being in a dark, unknown environment. This will have an impact on the audience also.

Cinematography/Editing

As previously mentioned, many of the shots within this title sequence are close ups. This is to limit the amount that viewers can see therefore sparking their initial interest and making them want to watch on. I believe that hyperbolic sounds have been imported throughout as to create more of an impact/effect. Diagetic sounds such as waves crashing against the rocks is emphasized aswell as non diagetic sounds such as the rushing (build up of tension) sound. An opening sequence is all about 'leading the audience into the film.

How characters are introduced

The characters are introduced in a very hostile and uncomfortable way. The main character is dragged into a building and thrown infront of a chinese man. Neither of them speak for several seconds, making the atmosphere seem tense and suspense builds. Due to the lack of interaction between the characters the audience begin to ask questions such as "Do they know each other?" and "Are they enemies?" etc. The purpose of a title sequence is to make the audience ask questions and keep them interested whilst giving them a vague insight into the plot of the film.