Student Thriller Opening Analysis - 36

This thriller opening has some quite distinctive pros and cons. One strong point is the very enigmatic feel it keeps throughout, making you want to see the rest of the film to see if it will explain it, however, it is quite average in it's delivery, using unnecessary sound effects, such as the zip opening and the weak and inaccurate gunshots which distract from the story line. A good thing about it is the way it doesn't appear as a thriller at first, until the red filter appears and the mood drastically changes, this is good because it delivers a sense of confusion to the viewer. One thing that didn't do them any favors was the overuse of the special effect for the title, which took up over a quarter of the time meaning the sequence was longer and more arduous than it should have been. Overall, we'd give this film a medium or high Level 3. We will make we follow it as a guide, such as selecting mise-en-scene that creates appropriate meaning (I.E costume, setting etc.)

We have decided that this thriller opening should be graded at a level 4 as it shows an excellent level of ability. A variety of shot types has been used well including a POV shot from inside the van as it drives, a convention of thriller films which helps the viewer to become more involved in the story.
The non linear narrative works well, creating tension by juxtaposing the shots of preparation with the action shots.
They have made a good use of mise-en-scene especially with their props. The shots of the whiskey glass, gun prep and inside of the van work well within the sequence, building tension.
They have set up the shots well, making good use of a tripod for steady, well framed shots including detailed backgrounds.
When filming our own sequence we will try to make use of some of the techniques used in this sequence for a better effect, remembering the variety of shots and well used props.