Codes And Conventions Of Film Openings

There are many common characteristics that make an opening of a film. Firstly there is usually an establishing/opening shot of the setting. If the film is a sequel they refer to the prequels as much as possible. They also use inter-textual references to other films of the same genre, to establish with the audience what the genre is e.g. the Bride of Chuckie with ref. to Jason,Halloween etc. as well as verbal references either by using lines from the film or using the name directly.

There are 2 contrasting points that are used in the opening. They either open by explaining the main protagonist(s) in detail, showing the setting and basically explaining everything at the beginning, or open on a narrative enigma, showing the characters and/or setting but not giving anything away e.g Sin City. Within the first point the use of freeze frames to show someone clearly while narration explains who they are, are sometimes used.

Certain genres use specific characteristics. for instance horror usually beings with some type of scene where the main characters are engaging in something wrong or illegal. They also incoorporate the blonde dies first stereotype.