Conventions of Opening Sequences

The purpose of the opening sequence of a film is to introduce the main premise of the film, its characters, genre(s), and encourage the audience to continue watching. They also include institutional logos and opening credits to inform the audience of the institutions behind the film, its production staff, and top billing actors. I will be describing the conventions of opening sequences, giving examples of them, and explaining why they are used.

Institution Logos/Names

In the beginning of all films, the institutions such as the distribution company and production company are shown either before the film, during the title sequence, or both. This is done because companies want to be credited for their work. Also, the audience may recognise the institutions and be more interested about or excited for the film. For instance, a fan of DreamWorks may be more engaged if they see the institution in the opening sequence.

For example, this is Universal Pictures' name in the opening credits of Edgar Wright's Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010):

Titles and Credits

Most, if not all, films use opening credits in their film to credit the top billing actors, director, executive producer and production staff. Some films also show their title in the opening sequence. This is also done because actors and important people in the production process need to be credited. However, people such as top billing actors are shown foremost in order to engage the audience. Some people will watch films because of the actors they have in it and some may be more interested in a film with a more famous cast.

An example of a film with a top billing cast in the opening sequence is Sam Mendes' Skyfall (2012). Names such as Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, and Naomie Harris are all included in the credits.

Introduction to Characters

Many opening sequences will feature an introduction to the main characters of the film. This is to set out the premise (or part of it) and give the audience characters that are relevant to the story to focus on. They also open up opportunities for long-lasting narrative enigmas. Introducing characters keeps the audience engaged and generates interest in the film.

A good example of an opening sequence introducing characters is in Louis Leterrier's Now You See Me (2013). They introduce the four protagonists of the film in the opening sequence.

Narrative Enigmas

All opening sequences will include narrative enigma. Narrative enigmas are codes that limit the information being given to the audience and makes them try to figure out what is going on or why something is. They are used to keep the audience engaged and make them want to keep watching. They will be curious about what happens or what something means so they will continue watching to find out.

For instance, lots of narrative enigmas are used in the opening sequence to Steven Spielberg's Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989). These include questions such as "Who are the scouts?", "What is the relevance of the golden cross?", and "Who are the miners?"

When we make our opening sequence, we need to include these conventions in it. Institutions and credits will make it look more professional. We can also use credits to make our film's genre more clear through fonts and colours. Introducing characters will be good for generating interest and creating more narrative enigmas. We will definitely use plenty of narrative enigmas to keep the audience watching.