My Favorite film Opening

this clip is from my favorite film, the illusionist by Neil Burge. this in a non linear film so the opening is actually a scene from later on in the film. the opening is very creative with shots and uses sound in a very interesting. this opening inspires me as its different from many other film openings i have seen. 

What is a film opening?

what is a film opening? 

the 4 main conventions of a film opening

1. location 

often film openings will include establishing shots or shots that allow the audience to establish the location of the film. this allows the audience to start putting together what the film is about. 

2. character  

film openings introduce at least one main character (usually more) . this allows the audience to gain some kind of emotional connection with the character/characters from early on. keeping them engaged and emotionally involved throughout the film.  

3. mood 

the mood is integral when setting the scene it allows the audience to understand what the film is about as well as knowing how to feel about certain characters and situations. 

4. question 

probably the most important part of a film opening is to keep the audience watching engage them! the best way to do this is to pose some kind of question or enigma that needs answering. this entices them to stay watching.