Genre research 2: Opening Sequences (Flightplan)

 The opening sequence of the movie is in a tube station. The colours are very dark and the subway can be heard loudly, as well as a tension building soundtrack. A woman is sitting on a bench. Many close ups and pans are used. For example, a close up is shown on the protagonist, the woman on the bench. Her facial expressions show fear mixed with tension. Feelings which are transmitted to the audience as well, also creating suspense. The establishing shots of the tube station are also used in order to set the scene - which is effective because a tube station is usually a very busy and crowded place. The woman is greeted by a man. Editing techniques are used, for example the scene cross cuts to the woman in a morgue, identifying her husband's body. This happens throughout the 5 minutes of intro.  This editing technique is effective because it makes the audience ask questions and makes them curious.

     Compared to the previous opening sequence that I've analysed, Limitless, this is a more calmer approach. Limitless's soundtrack is more vivid and dynamic. It also has a voiceover and it's set in a different time frame opposed to Flightplan. The cinematography is similar, as well as the editing techniques. however, what is very different about the two is that, Limitless starts with the end and the climax of the plot, whereas Flightplan has a slow, confusing (but interesting) beginning which builds up towards the end. I have to admit, the first time I watched the opening sequence of Limitless, i have been drawn and hooked completely from the first 15 seconds. in Flighplan, however, the action had me asking questions and trying to figure out the cross cut of the scenes. I am not saying it is a bad thing, as both are needed in order to make a good thriller film, but I believe that Flightplan has a slower start and it needs a bit of patience from the audience, until things start to make a little more sense. Personally, I find both openings interesting and capable of keeping the audience's interest throughout.