Film OpeningsTypical conventions of a film

opening in modern examples of films.

My examples1) Van Helsing

2) Transformers

3) Kidulthood

Camera work:- Long shots and establishing shots, to ‘establish’

the setting (e.g. long shot of scientist in lab) - Close up shots to present significant characters

(e.g. close up to student in Kidulthood to introduce him and his importance)

- High angle, establishing shots to illustrate the large congregation of people. (e.g. angry mob in Van Helsing – high shots help to show how many people there are)

Sound:Diagetic sound- Crowd yelling - Log hitting the door (Van Helsing)- Dialogue (Optimus’ Narrative, Scientists

exclamations, etc.) Non-Diagetic sound- Intense/ epic music- Special effects e.g. footsteps, breathing etc.

(Foley sound) e.g. fire alighting in Van Helsing

Editing:- Slow/fast paced clips - Varying movement and font of credits and titles (e.g.

Transformers Title = Futuristic font)- Jump cuts and overlapping cuts- ‘In Medias Res’ (e.g. angry mob in Van Helsing)Mise En Scene:Van Helsing - Black and white, ragged costumes, ancient props (torches and wooden weapons)Transformers - Dusk colours (desert), CamouflageKidulthood - School clothes, school bags, books, flyers