Foundation Portfolio - Hollywood Openings
HOLLYWOOD OPENINGS
Key Elements:
· Color/style/font of title & credit sequences
· Musical score
· Imagery
· Plot
· Information presented
· Tone
· Setting
· Wardrobe
· Character development
· Camera angles
· Color scheme
SCREAM
Key Element Notes:
White then red title (changed then a woman was creaming), Eerie music in certain scenes or moments. A house with lots of windows and glass doors in the middle of nowhere (the woods) at nighttime Beige woolen sweater with jeans and a blonde bob with bangs. She goes from a calm and flirty girl who’s very nice and understanding to a very scared and worried girl trying to protect herself. Tracking, close up, POV,
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this movie based on the film opening is that the genre is horror. I was able to make this inference because of how quickly the tone of the film opening switched when the antagonist told the protagonist that he could see her while they were talking on the phone. Right after this moment, the young lady became visibly frightened and took all the precautions she could to secure herself and her home from the antagonist. This is also solidified with the popcorn scene – as the popcorn began to burn and whistle, the young lady was frantically moving through the house trying to take control of the situation. Overall the tone of the film opening was ominous.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film opening’s tone because the colors and font of the title of the film created the eerie atmosphere needed. At first, the title color was whits/cream color, but as the film opening progressed, the title color became red symbolizing the blood that is to be shed throughout the film. When the color of the title became red, the font style switched, creating an expansion of each individual letter. The letters reminded me of a knife being sharpened. All of these elements made sense with the horror genre that was presented throughout the film opening
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene because they helped establish the dynamic that will be relevant to the genre. The protagonist, the young woman, is alone in her home, preparing to watch a scary movie. The antagonist, whom we did not see on screen during the film opening, is presented through the odd phone call. The protagonist and antagonist are playing cat and mouse, meaning that the creepy man on the phone is toying with his next victim without her realizing. Their dynamic tells us that the man on the phone has control over the situation.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used in the film opening contributes to the overall scene by adding the necessary layer of fear that the viewers should feel throughout the opening. For example, when the title is released at the beginning, there is a woman screaming as the word ‘scream’ appears on screen. Furthermore, the music is heard in the film opening when the antagonist reveals to the young woman on the phone that he could see her. This fuels the young woman’s fear as she is put into survival mode, trying to lock all the doors in the house quickly. The music helps the sequence move forward because it is the audio representation of the fear being projected from the screen.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
There is a tracking shot used to monitor the young woman’s movements throughout her home as she panics and secures her home. This camera technique contributes to the film’s overall plot or tone because this is an easy way to capture rapid movement throughout these scenes in the film opening. Another camera angle that is used in the film opening the Dutch angles. This is seen when the camera zooms in on the protagonist and quickly becomes canted, emphasizing the unease the young woman feels when she is informed that the man on the phone can see her inside her home. Overall, the camera angles are converging the loss of control she has I; the situation, as the man treats her as part of his twisted, killer game.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be out the man on the phone hunting the woman in the house. I think it is safe to assume that Steve, the young woman’s boyfriend, is dead and has been murdered by the man on the phone. I also think that she will try to fight back in this awful game that the killer has put her in. Overall, the plot of the film opening matches the genre presented. I also think that towards the end of the movie, the killer will be revealed.
SPACE ODYSSEY P1
Key Element Notes:
Black screen for majority of the opening with, suspenseful sounds, repetitive sound, goes quiet for a moment, sound goes from low to loud and get louder then quieter. Sound is very up and down. After a while, it then reveals earth or sun in outer space with the space fanfare music that we usually apply to space movies. Title at the end of opening title sequence all white, all caps, then goes black again.
Questions:
1.What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
I can tell that this film opening will be about space exploration. Because of this inference, I can assume that the genre of the film opening is science fiction. This is because of the sun, moon, and the earth that is presented on screen after three minutes of me watching this film opening. The tone of the film, opening is bleak and dreary’ yet mysterious for the majority of the first half because I was not sure what was going to happen. However, when the logo and title of the film was presented o the screen, the tone then switched to wonder and awe.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by creating the mysterious atmosphere needed for the science fiction genre. For example, the font selected for the title contrasts with what is presented afterwards, which is space. The title itself is bleak and sterile- the colors selected contrasts with the vastness, wonder, and unknown that space has to offer. Looking back, the way the title is presented does align with the film genre. The selection of font style, size, and color all are representative of a science fiction film.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The lack of characters contribute to the opening scene by creating this sense of awe and wonder for the science fiction film opening. Because of the lack of characters, I was able to focus on the presentation of the planets aligning after the credit scene. In addition, the lack of characters is also important to the genre because it hints to the viewers that there will be a lot of exploration of space and other elements surrounding exploration. The lack of characters also create a space between the viewer and what is happening on screen because it brings the viewers attention to focus on just space now. This confirms that the plot will be about space exploration.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the film opening by creating two tones throughout the clip. For the first half of the film opening, there was a humming/buzzing sound (white noise) that created a mysterious tone. Halfway through, the music shifts, introducing a high pitched score while the title appears on screen. The tone at this point then highlights the epic-ness and the vastness, of space. The music helps the sequence convey awe and mystery to the audience.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
There are not as many camera angles presented within this film opening. However, there was a high angle after all the planets/stars were presented on screen. This high angles contributes to the film’s overall plot or tone by emphasizing the scale of the space exploration to be done throughout the film. On the other hand, there was an establishing shot when the planets/stars align. The purpose of this is to establish the boundary the film will be exploring.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be about space exploration. I can infer this based on the tile. Odyssey, meaning exploration, indicates that there will be some exploration of space within the duration of the 2001: The Space Odyssey. I also think that they will explore the moon, the earth, and maybe even the sun. Overall, I think the plot of this movie is appropriate for the film’s genre.
SPACE ODYSSEY P2
Key element notes:
Crickets in the background, desert, triumphant space music starts playing again as gorilla/ape is examining the bones, alignment of planets/stars for a brief moment, cuts, low angles, slow-mo, close up, wide shot, gorilla making noise (distorted), shows side of planet, satellite
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
Based on the film opening I was able to determine that the genre was science fiction. This inference can be supported with the space satellite towards the end of the film opening. The tone of the film opening is chaotic and violent. This is because the ape was repeatedly hitting the skeleton of the beast with a bone. Overall, I can conclude that the conventions of a science fiction film were met within the frame marks of this film opening.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
There were no opening credits that could contribute to the film’s tone within the film opening. However, the lack of opening credits allowed the viewer to pay close attention to the frames that were playing on screen. The lack of credits is also relevant because it ties to the beginning of time where there was little to no development as the film opening progressed, there is evident development from one species to another. Yes, the lack of written convention ( i.e. the opening credits) aligns with the genre of the film we’re about to see.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by creating a contrast with the science fiction genre – that this is the beginning of time and that the ape is the origin of man. The characters are important to the film because the cut from the ape to space hints towards the progression of human evolution. This may be critical to the overall plot of the film. The characters also contribute to the opening scene by setting the stage for the power dynamic. The ape’s level of intelligence is marked at the beginning of the human evolution which
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the opening of the film sequence using the whit noise at the beginning of the clip. There are the sound of crickets and the other sound of nature that stop when the ape picks up the bone. This is significant because this signifies the end of an era and the cuts to the new evolution of a species – the human species. It it’s important to note that the background sounds sets up the score. The score is important because it creates an emphasis on the sophistication to come in the film opening.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles contribute to the film’s overall plot or tone by adding a sense of violence that is zoomed in on the apes. For example, there are several close up and goes of the ape bashing the skeleton of the beast with a bone. While these actions remain violent, it is critical to acknowledge that the ape is honing in on their motor skills and using their opposable thumb. There is also a low angle, adding to the power that the ape carries as he bashes the skeleton beast. There was also a wide angle at the beginning of the film opening. This angle established t(e environment that the ape was situated in.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will focus in human evolution. This is because of the cut that is seen when the ape throws the bone into the air; the scene then transitions into space. I also think that the ape representative of humanity. The low angle with the ape looking up at the sky is also foreshadowing how humans will eventually explore space, supporting my inference of this exploration. Based on what is presented, I think the conventions will match the science fiction genre.
LION KING
Key Element Notes:
Uplifting music, cuts, animals gathering together, waterfall and water sounds, whistling, birds; sounds of nature in general, wide shots, close up, low angles, bright, pastel colors, high angles, pov, birds-eye, film score, in a grassy terrain in the morning, protagonist at the top of the cliff, baby lion, heart-warming. Migration.
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this film opening based on what is presented is that the film will focus on the unity of the different animals based on the migration. Based on the film opening, I can infer that the genre is a musical and science-fiction. I can also infer that the tone of the film is uplifting and heartfelt. This is because there is a baby cub being introduced to the world, and all the animals are coming together to greet this baby. The main focus of the film opening is on the lion’s family because everyone is there to greet him.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
There were no opening credits that could contribute to the film’s tone. However, the lack of film credits allows the viewer to focus on the migration of the animals. This migration allows the viewer to immerse themselves into this familial moment because they were all going to meet this new baby cub. Based on what is presented on screen, it is safe for me to assume that the genre is appropriate. The song and the coming together if the animals match the hybrid genre that this clip is pushing for.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by highlighting the genre, science fiction. In real life, the animals would not come together to greet a new baby cub. However, the animals on screen present a sense of unity and highlight the importance of family relationships. For example, the mom giraffe and baby giraffe walk together, side by side, and the lioness is shown cradling her baby cub in her paws. As the monkey comes to gather her baby, the father of the baby cub comes to embrace her and eyes with his family unit. Based on these observations, I can assume that the plot will focus on the family ties presented in the film opening.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sounds used contributes to the opening by emphasizing the literal circle of life. While the song helps create the meaning that there is going to be a new beginning, which is represented when the baby cub is brought to screen. The pitch of the song increases every time a new family or unit is presented on screen, highlighting the literal circle of life with new family members being added. The music helps move the sequence toward by following the scenes as it moves forward. The music becomes epic when the camera zooms in on the baby cub.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles contribute to the films overall plot or tone by helping establish the different power dynamics between the different species of animals. For example, the low angles in the film opening with the monkey looking down at the animals, establishing that the monkey has more power then them. The establishing shot at the very beginning of the film opening establishes the environment for this film which is the Savannah. There is also a birds eye view camera angle helps capture the detail and vastness of the Savannah and the amount of animals migrating towards the cliff. Lastly, there is a high angle with the animals looking back at one another, again establishing this power dynamic.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be about the life of the baby cub and how it grows. Because if the zoom in on the baby cub, I can assume that the film will track his physical and emotional growth. I also think the film will explore the theme of power – the baby cub may take on a big role as he grows older, having to interact with the other animals. It can also be inferred that the film opening will explore relationships, especially familial relationships. Overall, I think that the conventions presented match those of the genre.
TOY STORY
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this movie based on its film opening is that this is going to be a movie for children. I can infer this because of the upbeat music that is playing in the background. I can also infer this because of cowboy doll that is carried around. I can tell that the genre of the film opening is science fiction because of the toys that come alive after Andy leaves the room. The tone of the film opening is cheerful, upbeat, and epic.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by highlighting that this is a child’s film. The lack of proper conventions- i.e. the lack of capitalization for proper pronouns- indicates that this is child’s work. The opening credits lack color, allowing for the audience members to pay attention to the detail of the film opening. However, the title presented at the beginning of the clip was in the primary colors (red, yellow, blue) that kids are exposed to when they are growing up. All the information presented during the film opening makes sense with the type of movie I am about to see.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by highlighting the comedic parts of the film opening when the toys are all cracking jokes at one another. However, the human characters highlight the dynamic between the family and toys. For example, it’s from Andy and his mom that we learn that it’s his birthday. We also learn that Andy wants to leave his birthday decorations up until it is time for the family to move. When Andy gets his baby sister, Molly, from the room, we them learn that the toys also have a hierarchy- Woody is the leader and he forgot about Andy’s birthday party.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the film opening by establishing the family dynamic and the dynamic amongst the toys. The lyrics ‘you’ve got a friend in me’ establishes the friendship between Andy and Woody. Even with the move approaching, we can infer that Andy’s mom may ask him to donate some toys, leaving some of these dolls behind. Despite the pending move, Andy will always have a friend in Woody. It is also important to note that when the toys were displayed on screen, the music softened, then eventually crescendoed as the chaos with all the toys became prominent.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles and shots contributed to the film’s overall plot or tone by highlighting the fact that this film will be from Woody’s perspective. The point of view shot puts us in Woody’s shoes as we see the conversation between Andy and his mom. There was also an arc shot from when Woody was thrown up in the air. When he landed in the living room, the camera was fixed and then zoomed in on him, making it obvious that Woody would be the one to tell the toy’s story. There was also a high angles when the toys were walking around in the room, conveying the power dynamic between Woody and the toys, and also shows in scale how small they are.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie I’ll be about a toy’s story. Based on the focus and perspective on Woody, I can infer that the perspective of this story will be from Woody’s experiences. I am also assuming that Woody will be responsible for comforting the other toys who are left behind in the move that was revealed earlier in the film opening. I also think that because it is Andy’s birthday, Woody will also be the one to help the other toys accept the new toys that will be gifted to Andy. I also think that Andy will become obsessed with the new toy(s) and may forget about the ones that already exist.
APOCALYPSE NOW
Key Element Notes:
Still at first, dust, unidentifiable helicopter bottoms, country-like music, transitions, camera moving left to right/right to left (back and forth) most of the opening, fires, explosions, red, green, dusty/smoky, one man, fan moving and sounds like helicopter blades, hints to the end of everything, fire colors, pictures, letters, lonely end type of music, a gun on the bed, liquor, destruction, chaos, war, pan shots
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell out this movie based on its opening is that this will be about war. I ca make this inference because of the destruction that is shown at the beginning of the film opening. The bombing of the fore station emphasizes the destruction caused by humans. Based on the six genres that I have studied in class, I believe that the genre will focus on the psychological horror that war causes. The tone of the film opening is disturbing.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
There were no opening credits that contributed to the film’s tone. However the lack of credits reflects the emptiness of the protagonist’s mind as he makes his entrance in the film opening. The lack of credits allows the viewer to focus on the amount of physical destruction there is from war. The lack of credits also allows the viewer to focus on the psychological trauma that the protagonist is dealing with as he lays in bed with an expressionless mask on his face. All the conventions on screen t match with the kind of movie I am about to see.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters on screen contribute to the opening scene by conveying to the audience how demanding and taxing, war can be. I can tell this is a taxing situation for the man on screen because of the gun that it placed by his side, the liquor on his table stand, and the cigarette in-between his fingers. The chance of reliance on these substances can help me infer that the man is suffering from PTSD and substance abuse. Because of the gun and it’s close proximity , I can also assume that he is struggling with his mental health and may be thinking about suicide. Based on all these details, I can infer that the plot of the film will be about his journey before, during, and after war.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound contributes to the film opening by reflecting the man’s mental health. For example, the lyrics in the soundtrack state “the end” and “the children are insane” repeatedly reflecting that the man’s end may be approaching. The lyrics also leave room for interpretation in regards to the end of a generation that was killed by the war. As the pitch and frequency of the sound, from the soundtrack, went in and out, it created an uneasy tone for the viewer. The helicopter blade sounds faded in and out with the fan, driving home the concept of his PTSD from the war.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, transitions, and shots used contribute to the film’s overall plot or tone by conveying the vastness of the destruction and trauma implemented by war. For example, the beginning of the opening sequence begins with a pan, conveying the destruction caused by humans during this war. The bird’s eye view paints the man in a sympathetic light because he is struggling with the aftermath of the war. There was also a close up/pan on the gun by his side, again highlighting his poor mental state and perhaps his thoughts on the value of his life. Lastly, there were fade-ins and fade-outs from the helicopter blades to the fan, indicating that the man is having flashbacks from his time during the war.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think the plot of the movie will be about war time. I think the movie will focus on the man’s personal experiences with war, as well as his experiences post-war time. There was a pan shot that revealed the photograph of a young lady- I can assume that she was either in his life or died during the war time. Regardless of her status, I can infer that she must have had a pivotal role in his life. At the end of the day, I think the movie will reveal what he does with his life post-war.
CASINO ROYALE
Key Element Notes:
Whole theme of opening scene is casino or a deck of cards and the symbols on them. Pan movements, solid color people, guns, fighting, lots of transitions, mysterious, lots of shapes/colors, suits, about fighting in a casino, action music, computer credits, plain white credits, money, James Bond, close up protagonist in black, zoom in, Birds Eye view,
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this movie based on the opening is that this will be a gangster film, according to the six major genres I have studied in class. I can also tell that the protagonist probably has several targets on his back because if the role he has as a spy. I can make the spy inference because the deck of cards towards the end of the film opening reveal his name- Bond 007. The tone of the film opening is dramatic and also mysterious because most of the characters were shaded in. Overall, the conventions on screen helped me determine what the film will be about.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by highlighting how large the production team was. For the majority of the film opening, the credits were being presented. The font was classy and the color of the credits were white, which contrasted with the violence on screen. This matches the mise-en-scene (the attire) and the actions of the characters on screen. Overall, these conventions add to the tone of drama.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by conveying the violence that the spy is a part of. The protagonist, portrayed as a black card, was combating the enemies, portrayed as red cards. I want to emphasize the lack of sympathy that James Bond had as he was attacking the enemy, which shows he has done it before. At the end of the day, he was completing his mission and did what was necessary for the success of this mission. I also want to emphasize that at the beginning of the film opening, Bond is dealing with a minion, who is seen on the floor on the bathroom, highlighting the power that Bond maintains.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the opening matches the actions of the characters. The lyrics comment “no one will save me,” indicating that Bond and the others are on their own and must do what they can to survive the mission. At the beginning of the film opening, the music frequency and pitch are not evident. It isn’t until the trigger is pulled, do we hear the score enter the opening. To further continue, any time the scene became more violent or switched frames, the music shifted in frequency and/or pitch to reflect those changes on screen.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, shots, and transitions contribute to the films overall plot or tone by conveying the action/drama on screen. For example, there was a mash cut when the deck of cards was shot up, creating the 007 that was later shown on screen. After the name and agent number was revealed, there was a zoom in on James Bond himself, revealing who the protagonist would be. Any time that the camera fixed itself onto James Bond as he was fighting the enemy, the camera would use either a ground shot or a low angle to capture the moves he used to defeat the enemy or to establish that he had the power in the situation. The last camera angle was a birds eye view of the enemy on the ground when he fell and died, establishing Bond as the one who defeated him and completed his mission.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be about a spy, that goes by James Bond, eliminating his targets. I also think that this film will, for the most part, take place in a casino because of the symbolism used in the film opening (the deck of cards) and the parallel from the title. I can infer that this film opening will follow James Bond and his mission. This may also explore the power dynamic between Bond and his enemies. Lastly, I believe that the woman who was revealed with the pan shot may be the leader of the entire operation or may have a part in Bond’s downfall.
THE SHINING
Key Element Notes:
Tracking shot, following the little yellow punch buggy, eerie music, birds eye view, transitions, fades, lots of trees, mountains, water, nature, mysterious music, Dutch, light blue credits going up towards the top of the screen, basic font, no one is out there, frequency changes of music, random shakes, pan, one gray, mysterious, isolated building.
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this movie based on its opening is that the genre will match the conventions of a horror movie. I know that this is going to be a horror-based movie because of the unsettling score. I can also support this assumption by pointing out that the final destination is isolated. The tone of the film opening is eerie and creepy. The tone is also mysterious because I am wondering what will happen to the bright, yellow car and those in it.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by adding the unnatural component to the film opening. I would also like to note that the icy blue color used in the opening credits are associated with spirits. This foreshadows that there may be unnatural entities within the film. I can also assume that the ski lodge/resort is the home to the unnatural spirits. Lastly, the opening credits contrast with the natural world as the yellow car drives alongside the mountain.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The lack of characters contribute to the opening scene by emphasizing the importance of the environment and what is to come. For example, the people in the car, even though they are not visible, can be viewed as victims of the unnatural spirits waiting at the ski resort. Because the characters are not visible, it has the viewer question who they are.It is important to note that some characters in the cars were leaving the resort or stayed inside the property. Lastly, it’s important to point out that there were several abandoned vehicles on the side of the mountain.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound is used to contribute to the opening to emphasize the eerie tone of the film opening. I also think that the score used within the clip creates an unsettling feeling for the audience. At the beginning, the bass instruments were low in pitch, allowing the audience to feel the unease that was being created within the clip. The music also creates a sense of unease because it feels like the character, and audience, are being followed. Anytime the bright, yellow car went into the tunnel, the pitch of the music sounded like a water phone.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, shots, and transitions contribute to the film’s overall plot or tone by conveying the sense of unease. There were long, establishing shots to illustrate how isolated the final destination really was, especially considering that it is at the top of a mountain. These shots also foreshadow that something will happen and that the police are not a phone call away. At one point, there was a Dutch angle tracking the car to create a sense of tension, establishing that something bad is waiting to happen. Lastly, the camera shake felt natural, again creating a sense that someone is following the bright, yellow car.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be about the isolation of the setting, leading to something unnatural happening to the people on the bright, yellow, car. There may also be some cases where victims, already at the lodge, may or may not be able to escape. The cars abandoned on the side of the road indicates that some escapes may have not been successful, but the tracking of the yellow car indicates that there may be something special about this case. I would like to note that spirits may be involved in the plot of the movie because the symbolic choice made for the credits. Overall, the conventions presented make sense with the type of movie I will see.
WHAT ABOUT BOB
Key Element Notes:
Goldfish, big blue font for title, black background, white font for credits, new day, light cheerful music, quiets down after the title is shown, goldfish swims up and then over the title is it pops up word for word, lint roller, button-up shirt, sleek pants, messy room
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about this movie based on its opening is that this will primarily be a comedic film. The tone of the film is light and comical. I can make these inferences because the fish, Gil, is important. The goldfish holds the role of an actual human character, which makes the situation funny. I can also tell that the friendship between the man and fish is strong, which also makes the situation funny.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s by adding to the comical and lighthearted tone. The color selection of the credits help build the tone. The fact that Gil travels across the opening credits also emphasizes that he will play a pivotal role in the film opening. The color choice of the film opening is symbolic of the water that Gil is swimming through. The contrast between the color of the credits, the color of Gil, and the background shows us that Gil will be important.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by highlighting the dynamic between man and fish. I can infer that Bill Murray and Gil are friends. Perhaps Bill relies on Gil for emotional support. Bill also relies on Gil for social support because he is lonely, talking to a fish. The lack of human characters emphasizes that he may be lonely. Another point I would like to make is that Bill’s apartment/condo is cluttered, meaning hay eh may be embarrassed to have people over, isolating himself even more.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the opening by establishing the comedic tone. The high pitch of the score plays into the silliness that is seen on screen. When Bill repeats himself for the second time, wishing Gil a good morning, he shares his greeting in a sing-song tone. It is also important to know that when Bill enters the room, the music sound dies down and lowers so that the audience can hear the one sided conversation. This can also show how lonely he is and relies on the little goldfish.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, shots, and transitions contribute to the film’s overall plot or tone by conveying the friendship between the two. The close up shot between Bill and Gil shows the reliance Bill has on Gil the fish. This close up also highlights the fact that Gil cannot respond to Bill, even though his tone shifts when Gil does not respond to his morning greeting. There was a trucking shot when Bill was walking out of the room. This shows the layout of the room and helps the viewer understand the environment of where the scene will take place.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
The plot of the movie will be about the relationship between Bill and Gil. I also think that the film will follow Bill’s social activities since the clip highlighted that Bill was removing the lint from his work attire. Perhaps the movie will take a turn where Bill is able to become more social and does not solely rely on the friendship if Gil. I can also assume that because of the clutter in his living arrangements, he may not have control over other factors in his life. Lastly, they are possibly both lonely because Gil was also the only one in the bowl, while Bill Murray was possibly the only one in the apartment.
PULP FICTION P1
Key Element Notes:
Diner/coffee shop, robbers, casual clothing, breakfast, smoking, close up, medium shot, couple, over the shoulder, calm/relaxed, plot twist, hip shot, guns, low angles,
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
I can tell that this movie will be about a a robbery. Not only is the couple calmly discussing their past robberies, they also plan their most current robbery. It’s important to note that the behavior the couple exhibited was calming/serious about their plans, which contrasts to the chaos that they cause at the end of the film opening. Based on the conventions presented, the film would probably be a comedy/gangster. The tone of the film opening is sporadic. At the beginning, the couple converses with another in a calm manner – as time progresses, the two become more excited and aggressive as they verbalize their plans. Despite this, the two remained respectful and loving to one another.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
There were no opening credits to contribute to the films tone. However, the lack of credits allowed the viewer to pay attention to the conversation of the couple. This is important because their conversation, from the outside, looks normal. As the viewer is pulled in throughout the film opening, it is revealed that there is nothing normal about this conversation. Overall, the lack of opening credits contributed to the viewer gaining a stronger understanding of the couplers dynamic.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by setting the tone and expectations of their behaviors. Based on the conversation, it can be inferred that the couple loves and respects one another. The couple pays attention to one another, they are focused on what the other is saying, and their tone towards one another is respectful. Another observation regarding the two is that the man is seen as more logical than the woman. He has a plan and discusses the successful component of their prior robberies, which his partner agrees provides minimal feedback, making it obvious as to who holds more power in this relationship.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the opening by adding to the sporadic tone. The music in the background (ambient sound) was playing in the diner while they were requesting more coffee and having their conversations. The purpose of the ambient sound is to establish a natural environment so the viewer is not questioning whether the characters are on the diner. Instead, we can focus on the information being revealed from their private conversation. Another example of the ambient sound was the clinks of the silverware from other tables and the kitchen, which added, again, to the environment.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, transitions, and shots contribute to the films overall plot and tone by adding the necessary layer of intimacy and conspiracy through the film opening. The close up of the couple coming together before they announced their robbery highlights the romantic relationship the two manage, despite being partners in crime, literally. There was also a two shot/over the shoulder/close up as the camera picked up the planning of the robbers were discussing. Additionally, there was a low angles trucking the man’s movement from sitting in the seat to standing on the seat as he was screaming that there would be a robbery. Lastly, there was a reaction shot within the close up when he was explaining the idea of robbing the diner instead of their normal, successful liquor stores.
6.What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think that the plot of the movie will be about the power couple robbing different establishments together. I believe we will follow their successful footsteps throughout the film. The film may also focus on the relationship of the robbers. I think that law enforcement will be their downfall. Perhaps they will escape law enforcement and get back into the game.
PULP FICTION P2
Key Element Notes:
Casual clothing, upbeat music, black background, big yellow/warm colored title, zooms out of title until we barely see it, freeze frame, music shifts almost like a radio/glitch or static, credits go over the big orang title as it zooms out, credits become the main focus on screen once the title zooms out. Title appears back on screen in big orangle letters
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
What I can tell about the movie based on the opening is that the film genre will be gangster. This is because of the couple happily jumping into the robbery at the diner. I think the film will be fast-based and action packed, making the tone fun and comedic as they move through their robberies
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by establishing the fast pace of the tone. The credits quickly appeared on screen; the opening credits were presented quickly on screen after the freeze shot. The credits that highlighted the different production groups within the film were in a bolder font and used white text against the dark screen. However, it’s important to note that the title, Pulp Fiction, was bolder and in yellow, with a red outline. This was zoomed in and placed in the background as the rest of the credits rolled throughout the opening.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by introducing the plot of the film. The viewer knows, based on their actions, that this film opening will be about a diner robbery. In addition the couple is very sporadic and chaotic, therefore I can infer that the film’s plot will reflect their characterization.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The music or sound used contributes to the opening by highlighting how reckless and chaotic the film will be. As the credits were rolling, the soundtrack switched from one song to another as the sound production was presented on screen, recapturing the attention of the audience. There was also a screeching sound as the music switched, symbolizing a change in point of view/time passing.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, shots, and transitions contribute to the film’s overall plot or tone by highlighting the changes in pace throughout the movie. For example, the freeze shot emphasizing the robbers taking control of the situation, telling the viewer that the plot of the film will highlight their successful robberies. There was also a low angle right before the scene cut it the music and the rolling credits. This angle was used to capture their power within the diner.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think the plot of the movie will follow the robbers and their success story. I think the film will also follow the dynamic duo as they rob the town together. I think that they may perfect their craft and may begin to rob different establishments.
DARK KNIGHT
Questions:
1. What can you tell about this movie based on its opening?
I can tell that this movie will follow the conventions of the gangster film. I can infer this because of the robbery, the violence, the weapons, and the colors used throughout the film opening. The tone of the film opening is dark and violent.
2. How do the opening credits contribute to the film's tone?
The opening credits contribute to the film’s tone by adding a layer of darkness to the film. The film opening begins with the production credits on screen. The colors used were harsher tones of blue, grey, black, and white.
3. How do the characters contribute to the opening scene?
The characters contribute to the opening scene by revealing that there will be betrayal amongst the characters as they are conversing with one another during the initial stages of the robbery. Additionally, with the betrayals, we can foreshadow that there will be more characters betrayed throughout. I can also infer that the joker will be the mastermind behind such awful ideas.
4. How does the music or sound used contribute to the opening?
The sound or music used contributes to the opening by adding to the mysterious tone that is also portrayed throughout the film opening. The clock ticking as the camera tracked towards the building indicates that something big is about to happen. The music overall added the suspense that was needed to stage the heist.
5. How do the camera angles contribute to the film's overall plot or tone?
The camera angles, shots, and transitions contributed to the film’s overall plot or tone by adding to the anticipation of the major event. There was an over the shoulder shot as the two robbers on top of the building were cutting the land lines and communicating back and forth with one another. There was also a Hod’s eye view shot as the men were sliding down the rope to the top of another building. This shot allowed the viewer to establish the dangerous environment they are working with.
6. What do you think the plot of the movie will be?
I think the plot of the movie will be about a string of robberies. Based on the fact that the bank tellers could not make a phone call to 911, I am assuming that a dark knight will rise to the occasion and save the day. Perhaps the relationship between this hero and the Joker will be revealed as the film progresses. Overall, the plot will explore the betrayal that characters will experience throughout the film opening.
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