Structure Of thriller Openings

Structure Of thriller Openings

When looking at film openings, it is noticeable that there are 3 basic structures which are followed:

1.  A narrative opening with the titles running throughout
2.  A discrete title sequence
3. Titles over a blank screen, followed by a narrative opening.   
4. And additionally; stylised editing 

Here are some examples of thriller film openings and their structures:

The Taking of Pelham 123:

The Taking of Pelham 123 has a stylised editing type opening sequence. We see examples of the stylisation through on screen images such as the view of the street where the speed of time is increased substantially, and then it is immediately slowed as the antagonist character ‘Ryder’ is viewed, which may create key ideas about this character; one being that he is one of the main characters of the film and he will play key roles. There is also quite a lot of panning, with many pans that have increased paced to possibly create a fast paced mood as the film has entered its opening sequences.

Arlington Road

The film 'Arlington road' uses a discrete title sequence for the opening of the film. A discrete title sequence leaves the audience in suspense as to what the film is going to be about. Various unconnected clips have been put together; it gives the audience clues as to what they are going to be watching. A discrete title sequence is also heavily edited; a lot of special effects are used such as slow motion. The titles also appear and disappear unlike a narrative opening that has the titles running thought.

Donnie Darko

Donnie Darko opens with a blank screen with white text, which gives the audience information about distribution and production companies, alongside the director and possibly the writer. Once these titles have completed, a narrative opening follows to begin the film.