Why is the Opening Sequence of a Film

Important?BY Angel Bird

It has been said that the most important part of a film is the opening 5 minutes.

The opening sequence must create a believable world that the audience are drawn into.

If the audiences’ attention isn’t grabbed by the first 5 minutes, it is unlikely that they will continue to watch the film.

It often establishes a tone or mood for the rest of the film to follow.

Usually, the most successful opening sequences create a sense of intrigue that makes the audience want to continue watching to find out what happens to the characters.

FOR EXAMPLE: THE SHINING (1980)

This opening sequence grabs the audiences attention and sets the tone for the rest of the film in just 3 minutes.

The panning shot over the lake creates a disoriented feel and the music builds to suggest something bad is going to happen.

The small car shown by the bird eye view is isolated in comparison to vast landscape that appears to be swallowing it up.

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The panning shot at the beginning perfectly highlights the fact that this film is going to be a psychological horror as the reflection in the water, paired with the tilted panning movement is very disorienting.

“Ending scenes, plot twists and other elements all leave a lasting impression, but you only get one opportunity to hook an audience.”