The difference between a trailer and an opening sequence
There are a range of differences between a movie trailer and an opening sequence as a movie trailer's main intention is to grab our attention as viewers and movie trailers are usually no longer then three minutes long. In comparison, an opening sequence is set to establish the mood or even the tone of the film. An opening sequence is often six minutes long which familiarizes the viewer with the setting.
Movie Trailer
They are fast paced (80 clips)
Includes Narration/Voice-overs
They show the main
Shows all of the action
It grabs our attention
It shows the overview of the story/ pot
It uses montage editing (random clips)
Includes short bursts of text
Opening sequence
It hooks us in
It establishes the mood/tone
It normally has slow paced clips
Usually has soundtrack
It leads us into narrative
Sixth Sense Movie Trailer
This is the Sixth Sense movie trailer, it is about a young boy who communicates
with spirits. The trailer includes all of the hooking techniques which defines a movie trailer. There are a various amounts of clip lengths which entice us as a viewer to go and see the film. We feel even more attached towards the trailer as it creates an ominous mood by the soundtrack which is in the background. The Six Sense movie trailer shows the favourite actors who would be staring the film. For example Bruce Wills, Haley Joel Osment and Toni Collette. These names would appeal to many viewers as they may be well known to perform good in other films.
Se7en Movie Trailer
Se7en Opening Sequence
There are a range of differences between Se7en's movie trailer and opening sequence, they both grab our attention as viewers, however the movie trailers main intention is to lead us into watching the film. The trailer shows the short clips in montage which helps us as an audience to gain a sense of what the film is about. The clips sharply overtake each other which creates a jumpy effect. In comparison, the opening sequence establishes the mood and the tone of the film. It is well composed as it mainly has close up shots which only let its viewers see a little amount within the frame. The opening sequence has a missionary soundtrack in the background which reinforces a sense on uncertainness as to what the characters plan is.
Ok Jamal, you seem to have quite a good grasp of the difference between the two - so now it's all about focussing on OPENING SEQUENCES and how they work / how they are constructed. I would have liked to see your posts showing that you have carefully selected 9 frames to create a 'contact sheet' for Se7en and for 'The Sixth Sense.
ReplyDeleteYou can simply copy one for Se7en from 'The Art of The Title Sequence' - this is a really useful website for you.
( frame contact sheets look so much more interesting in your blog (more than simply embedding Youtube clips) - as they show frame by frame HOW the opening sequence has been constructed.
SJA