Opening sequences to films have a dominant purpose and impact on the success of a film based upon the initial interaction the audience come across. An opening sequence essentially sets the scene as well as the mood of the film from the beginning which helps the audience establish the genre and allow them to collate a brief prediction of the plot and what is to be expected.
An opening sequence engages the audience from the beginning and allows them to make a quick judgement on what sort of film this is going to be - the mood, setting, plot and character(s). The initial contact made with a character, usually the main character, allows the audience to engage and question who they are, what role do they play and how they will be important to the plot and outcome of the film. There may be an intriguing aspect to it such as it beginning part way through a situation or there could potentially be a car chase or an unexpected initial opening that creates mystery, confusion and potentially a sense of questionning that immediatley engages the audience.
For example, I have chosen to focus on the horror genre as I believe these can be one of the most effective opening sequences because it usually starts quite peaceful and then the audience begins to sense something not quite right until the plot unravels. Horror opening sequences create questionning due to the mystery that surrounds it as well as suspense and an increasing build up of tension. They also use effective non-digetic soundtracks in order to support the mood of the film and further create suspense. The horror genre is for adreniline lovers and trill-seekers therefore there needs to be an element of twist and surprise in order to fulfill these needs and expectations.
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