RESEARCH: Analyzing another film opening

As part of my research, I looked particularly at the openings of thriller films. One opening that has inspired me in particular is the opening of the 2011 American thriller film 'Drive'. I found this opening interesting through it's effective use of the conventions I have previously researched, which has inspired me to put my inspiration from this film, across to the rest of my group. 

The overall film follows a Hollywood stunt performer (Ryan Gosling) who moonlights as a getaway driver. This immediately indicates the themes of theft and robbery, but also seclusion and mystery. 

The opening of 'Drive' is a good example of a film that follows the conventions of a film opening. For example:

The opening begins with the establishing shot of the city, establishing the metropolis location of the film and further indicating the urban and contemporary district circulating the film. 

The opening then goes on to show a low-angle shot of the protagonist, not only following the film opening conventions by establishing the main character, but through the use of the low-angle camera shot, also introducing his character as  powerful and reigning, engaging and intriguing the audience into his complex character.  

The opening also uses the non-diagetic sound of intermediate technological music, creating a slow pace, corresponding the metropolis location, but also coming across as ironic to the title of the film, further suggesting wit and mental ability, implying the tone of the film as accelerated.  

The opening also follows the conventional order of a title sequence, by crediting the production and distribution companies, whilst also using the structure of a discrete title sequence. For example:

The opening uses a discrete opening to credit the leading actor of the film after crediting the the production and distribution companies. This makes it clear of which character, the audience  will see the perspective of. 

It also then goes on to show the title of the film, whilst also showing the shot of the main character in the car, not only establishing the title of the film but also establishing the main setting of a car. 

The opening also uses Mise en scene very effectively when foreshadowing certain aspects of the film and further creating an overall tone. 

For example, one aspect I personally thought was very effective was the over the shoulder shot of the main characters jacket appearing to have the print of a scorpion. This I thought was very effective due to the fact that scorpions symbolize calmness, but when interfered with they symbolize fierceness and aggression, foreshadowing and indicating as to have a hostile side to him.