Opening Sequence Analysis
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This document analyzes the opening sequence of the film Memento through 9 frames. It shows that the sequence establishes the film noir genre through the use of point-of-view shots, a fading polaroid representing memory loss, and images that are dark, mysterious, and depict violence like blood and a character holding a gun. These techniques immerse the audience in the mystery of the film and inform them it will have traits common to noir films like crime and action scenes.
Opening Sequence Analysis
- 1. Analysis of Memento Opening Sequence Film Noir 9 Frame Analysis
- 2. An example of camera angles used is a point of view shot. This shot is used for a large part of the sequence, and it shows a mans hand holding a Polaroid picture. This shot is most likely used to represent the main characters memory loss throughout the film. The shot also shows the polaroid slowly becoming exposed, as if the shot is reversed. Frame 1
- 3. This is a screenshot of the same camera shot that was previously used. However the polaroid is faded here, even though this screenshot was taken after the the last one. This picture relates to the theme of the movie, as the movie is based around memory and memory loss. Frame 2
- 4. This close up of the mans hand shows him putting the Polaroid into camera. The shot also follows the mans hand. This Shot shows allows shows the whole scene is in reverse, and shows that the man has clearly taken of a picture of something As he puts the picture back into the camera. Frame 3
- 5. This screenshot shows the first thing that is seen in the opening sequence. The black background connotes that the mood of the film could be dark or bleak. The font colour that is being used, electric blue, also gives the feeling that that it is somewhat futuristic. Frame 4
- 6. Frame 5 This screenshot is a close up of the main characters face. His face is bloodied and sweaty, as if he has been in some kind of struggle. This adds to the whole mystery that is being created by the opening sequence.
- 7. • This frame shows a mans face covered in shadows. This image is typical of a noir film, as noir is most times dark and mysterious. This frame shows that the film will be rather dark or mysterious. Frame 6
- 8. • This frame shows alot of blood. From this, the audience will immediately know the film will contain scenes of violence. In Noir, violence is often a key factor of the film. Noir films focus on areas such as crime, law, gangsters and journalists in some cases. Frame 7
- 9. This frame shows the main character played by Guy Pierce, holding a gun at something/someone. This frame shows that the film is going to have scenes of action in it, which is common in Noir films. Frame 8
- 10. This screenshot shows a man being shot. This adds to the mystery, making the audience curious as to why being he is being shot. This further shows that the film is violent. The shadows in the background are also related to Noir Film. This shot is a POV-high angle shot. Frame 9