Tuesday, 19 January 2010

My Favourites

Here are three of my favourite openings of all time. Two film, and one television.


The Shining


I meant to present this in class on Monday, but forgot the DVD (oops!) I really think this is truly a testament to the camerawork this film is so well known for. The tracking shot through such a amazing location works perfectly. The audience is immediately filled with a deep sense of isolation and dread. Something bad is going to happen!



There Will Be Blood


One of my favourite films ever! I do go on about it, but this opening is one of the most amazing pieces of acting I've seen in a long time. Daniel Day-Lewis enthralls you. Throughout the whole opening, he never utters a word. The audience is left just to watch. No words, no music, just an amazing location and a truly brilliant actor. Well worth a watch.



Skins: Series 3

I, like many teens, was somewhat anxious about this series. New characters? When the old ones were so awesome? Well, needless to say, this opening left a lasting impression. We meet Freddy, one of the most important characters. The camera track his as he skates down a hill, initially just following his feet, and then moving into a more complex action sequence. The tracking shots are perfect whilst he is skateboarding down, and the sequence of action is so well shot. Whatever your feelings about the new characters, you have to admit that this is a brilliant opening.

Overall, I would say it's clear, pictures speak louder than words in this case. I'm hoping to concentrate as much as possible on visuals, and try not to get tangled up with dialogue.

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