What Is An Opening Sequence?

Up

'Up' is Pixar's tenth feature film. It is notable for being the first Pixar film to be originally produced in 3D technology. In the opening sequence of the film, we are taken beautifully through the ups-and-downs of Carl and Ellie's life; starting with how they met as kids, to the day they marry, and even Ellie's passing. There is no typography used in the opening sequence. Though only minutes in length and almost completely silent, the sequence details the highs and lows of two lives with poignancy, death and an emotional montage.

The scenes of Carl and Ellie ageing together are, in themselves, masterpieces of their own kinds. They're warm, light-hearted, yet guaranteed tear-jerkers. Though dialogue is not used in these particular scenes, we are taken through Carl and Ellie's lives through the classically-inspired music (composed by Michael Giacchino); we recognise the pits and peaks of their lives as the tempo varies in speed and pitch. This is particularly powerful as it's able to catch the true essence of the film.

As far as opening sequences go, to not have titles nor dialogue can be seen as a little odd, yet are somewhat considered the norm for Pixar films and Pixar shorts. But this shows the power that the film possesses without saying too much and revealing too little. 

Se7en

The opening sequence of the film 'Se7en' consists of titles only; the typography is very jittery and scatty - which is a reflection and portrayal of the film. It delivers us into a darker world which is obsessive, methodic, and sinister. It's a short story told in fragments and vignettes, following the hands of an unknown man - as he makes entries in his diary alongside clippings from books, self-developed photographs, and found images and objects, giving the audience an intimate look into the mind of a serial killer obsessed with religion.

Out of all the opening sequences, this one, in particular, was my favourite. The eerie music, with the use of synths, sets the atmosphere for the rest of the film. This sequence will immensely influence our final piece/opening sequence project.