TASK 1
Professional made teen film openings
Submarine:
Submarine (2010) Opening sequence
The opening of this film doesn’t fit with the regular conventions of a teen film, which often contain things such as a school, lots of people, clear social groups (e.g. nerd, popular people, misfit, diva) and upbeat music. However this is the opposite of that and the opening is atypical of a regular teen film. This could be because it is a British film, rather than American. It could also be because it is a hybrid of multiple genres, including romance and drama.
Broken up by credits, the audience are first introduced to the setting, which we quickly learn is the character’s bedroom. Through the mise-en-scene, setting and props, we can see that it is very busy, with lots of pictures on the wall and other props everywhere. The audience could see this as a reflection of the characters mental state, confused and overwhelmed. This could also be said about the dark lighting in the room. Despite this, the bedroom looks quite ordinary and normal, suggesting he is just a normal teenager. The use of the pan shot to show us this makes us feel as though we are there, immersed in the film. This mimics the turning of the head, especially as the camera moves down too, making it feel more natural. This is also done to make the opening sequence not too choppy, with lots of different shots to show the same things. During this time, there is only the sound of the sea and birds, which could have been done to ensure that the audience focuses on the mise-en-scene, rather than the sound. It could also have been done to build up some tension for a short moment or to gradually open the film, rather than being too overwhelming within the first few seconds. Additionally, it makes the audience recognise that the film is set somewhere coastal. The character’s costume is very neutral and basic, potentially implying that his personality isn’t very eccentric, and he could be a serious and formal person. This is further suggested by his serious facial expression that doesn’t change. In this scene, the lighting is quite dark, with artificial, warm toned lamps. Outside we can see that it is cooler toned and blue. This could show to the audience that the character feels more comfortable and happier when inside and finds the outside world colder and more uninviting. The character’s hair and makeup are natural, presenting him as a regular teenager, like those watching the film. The use of composition and character movement could infer that he is lonely or antisocial, as he is the only person we see in the opening scene. We also see him sitting quite small under the window, and almost appears to be hiding from the outside world and civilisation. The composition of the shots also make him seem quite small and isolated as he only ever takes up a small amount of the frame, even in the close up.
The narration not only provides the audience with the information of the character’s name, Oliver, but also gives us some of his thoughts and opinions. The seemingly pessimistic narration could suggest he is a very emotionless, negative and has a critical approach to life and others. As this small amount of speech transitions into music, we hear the sound of a clock ticking, which is synchronised to the cuts, zooming in each time. Oliver then looks directly into the camera, breaking the fourth wall, as he seems to be interacting with the audience, making them feel as though they are there with him. Then we see a series of establishing shots, which provide some information to the audience about the setting of the film. The pretty photo-like shots create a calm atmosphere. As we see this we can hear music which also adds to this atmosphere and feel. The music is stuck on the puzzle by Alex Turner, the lead singer of Arctic Monkeys. This is an example of horizontal integration as the film was made by Warp Films and the Arctic Monkeys signed to Warps record label. Richard Ayoade, the director, and the Arctic Monkeys had also previously collaborated before on music videos. Alex Turner could have been chosen to create the soundtrack to push the film out to the younger British audience, who could have been the main target audience as the Arctic Monkeys are a British band.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off:
The film starts at the beginning of the story, making it a linear narrative. We first see an establishing shot of a house, while hearing the sounds of two concerned parents talking. We are then inside the house and see a close up of a character, who we assume to be the main character as they are the first person we see. The camera is then positioned at the point of view of this character, as we see a low angle shot of the parents talking. As the dad speaks, the audience learns that the main character is called Ferris. After more shots similar to this, we see close ups of a new character, before we see her face. We are then told that her name is Jeanie. After more dialogue between the characters, the mood shifts as the background music stops and we get told that Ferris was lying. At this point he starts to speak to the camera as loud, contrasting music begins to play. As he continues talking, text is shown on the screen which matches what he is saying. The rest of the opening scene consists of him talking to the camera as he starts his day.
This is a somewhat typical teen film opening scene as it fits with some of the conventions of the genre such as school, a contrast between teenagers and adults, humour and upbeat music. This makes it instantly recognisable as a teen film. This is an American film which could be why it includes more of the stereotypical features of a teen film as they are what started the genre and therefore the conventions for it.
The establishing shot of the house introduces the film and the audience instantly learns information like where it is taking place as well as information about the characters such as their wealth. Close up shots of the characters show detail and facial expression, so we know how the characters feel. This is used when we see the close ups of Jeanie’s feet, hands and then face. Within these few seconds, the audience are able to tell from the close ups that she is annoyed as the camera is close enough, focusing all of the audience attention on them. The point of view shots seen in this opening scene allows the audience to see what the character, making it more immersive as they are changing perspective throughout, rather than just passively watching the characters from across the room for the whole scene. A point of view shot can also make the audience relate more to a character as they are now seeing the world as the character does. The sound of the door closing signifies a shift in tone and atmosphere within the scene. This is then followed by the loud sounds of the TV, contrasting the relaxing piano music which was previously playing. This shows the audience how the character acts differently while his parents are not home. On the TV, the audience are also able to see the MTV logo, which further shows the film as a teen film, due to the pop culture references. This clip also acts as a transition, so the audience don’t lose interest as they see Ferris get out of bed, but also makes it flow better and make more sense than having the sudden change from him being sat down to standing up. At this point, Ferris starts to talk to the audience, as if they were there, breaking the fourth wall. This makes the film more immersive as we feel as though we are in on the plan with him. Through this monologue the audience learns more about the character, and about his past. We learn that it is his ninth sick day, which could indicate to the audience that he could be a manipulative person. At this point most of the shots are eye level shots, at Ferris’s height, usually looking at him. This could also make it feel as though we are there with him. As he walks around the house, we see more of the setting, giving us an idea of his life, as well as showing the props. His bedroom seems typical of a regular American teenager, with lots of props, such as posters on the walls. The props such as a tv, computer, books and a music system are conventional for a teen film in the 80s. The main character has no makeup on and has a regular haircut, telling us that he is a normal teenager. As well as that, Jeanie’s and Ferris’s mum’s hair are typical 80s haircuts, also showing they are a normal family, making it realistic and relatable for the audience. The lighting in the opening scene is soft and natural looking, and along with the warm colours, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Ferris’s basic costume, which changes from a white T-shirt to a robe, could show that he is a normal teenager. Throughout the scene, Ferris’ facial expression and movement present him as happy, relaxed and casual laidback as he is smiling and walking around slowly, as though he has nothing to do and isn’t rushing.
The Breakfast Club:
The film starts at the start of the story when, after the credits, we see an establishing shot of Shermer High School. As we see this, the audience can hear music, as well as a monologue. We then montage of shots from around the school, while the monologue continues. We are then introduced to each of the characters as they arrive at the school, each in a different way. At this point the is dialogue between characters. After this the characters enter the school and sit down without speaking. Before the scene ends an older character enters and begins to talk.
From the opening scene it is clear that it is a teen film as it has predominantly teenage characters and includes many of the conventions associated with a teen film, including a school and different stereotypes. However, the audience could be able to also sense that the film might be a comedy-drama also as the contrasting characters that they see may cause them to clash and cause drama, as well as also causing comedic moments.
The establishing shot supplies the information of where the film is set within the first shot. Within the narration heard as we see this, we are provided with more information such as where the school is and exactly when the film is set. The following shots are significant as they not only show the audience more of the setting, but also the props are important in telling us about the separate characters as they include things that are usually associated with these stereotypes. For example, the tidy computer room and the nerd, the messy locker room and the athlete, the counsellor's desk and the basket case, the prom queen poster and the princess, the locker with the noose and the criminal. This not only introduces us to the characters before we see them but also establishes the types of people using stereotypes and the possible hierarchy between the characters. At this point the audience could relate to this as they could see themselves in these stereotypes or relate with what the character is saying about being misjudged and categorised.
After this, the audience now see the characters arriving at the school. A tilt shot upwards introduces the first character. Instantly we can tell that she is of a higher social class due to the composition of the shot. Throughout the shot, the thing we see most clearly is the BMW logo on the car, showing wealth. We can also see their wealth through mise-en-scene as their costume and hair and makeup reflects wealth. During the dialogue we learn more information about the character like that they got the detention for skipping school to go shopping and that they aren't happy to be in detention. We are then introduced to the next character and learn that his family are very work orientated and are pushing him to do study lots. The composition of the following shot shows the number plate of the car, EMC 2, in the foreground of the shot, making it easy for the audience to see. This reinforces that this character’s family is very education orientated. The audience then meet the next character, who we can instantly tell is tell is sad due to the character expression and movement. This characters costume is very stereotypical for a high school athlete in America, further pushing that it is a teen film. The next shot showing this character getting out of the car also shows another character walking behind. The shot may have been composed this way to show that they could be equals and both try to act as the alpha, which could possibly cause a clash between them. As the next car pulls up outside the school, it speeds in, almost hitting the character which is walking. However, they do not seem effected by this and do not flinch. This example of character expression and movement could show the audience that his character is careless and laidback. This character’s costume creates a sense of mystery and they are wearing a long coat and sunglasses, concealing much of their identity. This mysterious feeling is reinforced as they do not speak throughout the scene, so the audience don't learn much about this character. Similarly, the next character cannot be seen very clearly either due to their costume and long hair. However, this character seems less confident due to their character expression and movement, so the audience get the impression that they are trying to hide who they are. This character is sat in the back of the car and after going to speak to those in the front of the car, possibly to say goodbye, the car speeds off, leaving her lonely and isolated within the shot. This could show that this character possibly doesn't have a good relationship with their family. This is a theme that is seen across all of the characters as they all disagree/differ from their parents, but for different reasons. This already shows something in common about the characters. We don't learn the characters names in the opening scene, which could create some mystery and make the audience want to know more about who the characters are. Because the weather looks grey and dull, the natural lighting also is. This could be an example of pathetic fallacy as the weather and lighting could reflect the characters dull and sad mood.
When inside the school, the characters sit down. When the “criminal” walks in, the “nerd” instantly moves and sits somewhere else. This shows the audience this characters power over others. When the final character enters, the others turn to look at her as she walks to sit at the back of the room, making her seem even more isolated and alienated. Finally, at the end of the scene we see another character walk in, which we presume is a teacher. When we see him, a low angle shot is used to show to the audience that he is a figure of authority and power. This is the end of the opening scene, as it stops after setting up the film and before any of the story begins.
Student made teen film openings
This opening scene for this student made teen film consists of a montage of different clips from around a school. While this is happening, the audience can hear music (Like A G6 – Dev). At parts of the scene, we are able to hear some diegetic sound and dialogue between the characters, however you can’t hear what is being said. There is a range of different shot types, camera angles and camera movements such as close up, pan, dolly and medium. At this point we are unable to tell what type of narrative it is and therefore if the film starts from the beginning of the story. We are also unaware what the storyline of the film would be as there are lots of characters and no obvious storyline. Instead, the audience learn more about the setting and are introduced to the characters.
As stated, it is clear that this is the opening to a teen film as it includes many of the conventions associated with a teen film. This includes a school, mobile phones, upbeat music and characters breaking rules. However the video title suggests that it is a hybrid of genres and it is a teen drama. In the opening scene there are no obvious hints that this is a drama.
The establishing shot is a pan of the school, showing the setting of the scene. We then see more of the school as the scene continues. All of the teenage characters are wearing school uniforms, making it clear to the audience that they are school students. However, some are wearing hoodies and baseball jackets, which are often associated with teenagers, further showing that it is a teen film. The teachers are wearing different, formal clothing, possibly showing that they have more power as well as freedom compared to the students. The teacher's authority could also be shown by the composition of the shot as they are stood above the student, making them seem more important. The hair and makeup is normal for modern day teenagers, which the audience assumes when the film is set. This shows the characters as normal and relatable for the teenage audience. The prop of the car also shows that they are young teenagers as the character is not driving it, inferring that they are not old enough to yet. The props of the phone also show that it is set in the modern day. The lighting within the building is quite bright and white. This could make it feel cold and unwelcoming and could be a place that the characters don’t want to be. This is reinforced by the character expression and movement, as when the characters are sat at the desks, they look bored and unhappy due to their facial expressions and slumped postures. However, this contrasts when the characters are smiling and laughing. This could show that they are social people and prefer the social aspect of school rather than the academic side. We can also see their facial expressions when they wink, which could show that they are confident characters. The overall aesthetic of the opening scene is quite bright and fun due to the vibrant colours seen in the scene.
At points, the characters break the fourth wall and look into the camera, which could make the audience feel as though they are there, interacting with the characters. At a few points within the scene, the audience can hear diegetic sound as well as the non-diegetic sound. However, this could be confusing for the audience as you can’t clearly hear what they are saying and lots of it is laughing.
During the opening scene of this student made film, we see one character walking down a road before entering a house. After taking the food, two more characters leave the house, in order to find the initial character. The is a fight scene on the driveway before the initial character walks away, victorious. The audience can hear non-diegetic sound, which the characters cannot. There is music which changes towards the end of the scene. We can also hear diegetic sounds such as the sounds of the person in the house and the other characters talking. There is a range of camera angles, shot types and camera movements such as close ups, wide, low angle and tracking. We are unable to tell where in the story the film starts as later on there could have been flashbacks to show why this is happening or it may just explain it.
Other than having a cast of teenagers, this film opening doesn’t fit with many of the conventions of a teen film, which doesn’t make it very clear to the audience that it is one. Instead, it seems like it could be a crime or horror film as it shows many of the conventions of those genres, including weapons, masks, fighting and suspenseful music. This could mean that it is a hybrid of a teen film and another genre.
A wide shot is initially used, showing the audience the setting and the character, who we assume is the main character as we see him first. It also shows that he is alone and that there is no one else there. The characters costume is all black, a colour often associated with mystery and danger. His character expression and movement shows him sitting behind a wall, almost hiding, before he gets up and looks around. This may lead the audience to question why he is wearing this and what he is hiding from. A close up is then used to show his facial expression as well as the fact that he is wearing a mask. This also adds to the mystery as he appears to be trying to hide his identity. The mask and hoodie covers his hair and any possible makeup used, which also hides what they look like. He then enters the house, and he seems to have a key, which could lead the audience to ask whose house it is and who is in there. Because the character has a key for the house, the audience may think that this is a place of safety for this character. The dramatic and suspenseful music also stops at this point, which could also cause them to think this. However, the character still seems to be distressed and frantic, making the audience believe that he is still in danger. The lack of music helps to make the sounds of the footsteps, the talking and him kicking the prop more clear, building tension without the need for music. The sound of the footsteps and talking is used to provide the information that there are other people in the house without showing them. We then see more close ups showing the characters facial expressions, from which we can tell he is scared. We also see a close up of some someone walking down the stairs with a weapon. The shoes are red, another colour associated with danger and anger. After seeing a tracking shot of the two characters, there is a point of view shot from the original character. This allows the audience to see the world from his perspective. This makes it more immersive for the audience as they feel as though they are part of the action and drama. There is more dramatic music as a fight begins, adding tension and suspense. The prop of the weapon is used to show who has the power in the scene. The lighting in this scene is bright and natural as it is sunny outside. This almost contradicts what the audience are seeing as usually sunshine is associated with happiness and warmth.
After the opening credits we see a teenage girl in a school and we hear some non-diegetic music and a voiceover monologue. The sound then changes to diegetic music which is the music that the character hears as she puts in headphones while leaving the school. We then see the character walking to a train station as the music (What If? - Emily Hazell) plays, until the character removes the headphones. At this point the audience can hear the sound of the announcements over the speakers. As the character is reading, a second character begins to talk to her, creating dialogue. The camera then tilts downwards as a train passes and more music plays. Medium shots, wide shots, high angle shots and close up shots are used in this film opening. It is likely that this is the beginning of the story as this is the first time that the characters seemed to of met, however it could be a non-linear narrative and show some of the character’s past.
Like stated, this film opening appears to be a teen and romance hybrid. It includes conventions of the teen genre such as a school, a teenage cast and pop music. This makes it easily recognisable as a teen film. At the end of the opening scene, the girl meets the male character, hinting that it will also be a romance film.
The audience initially hear the first piece of music being played, which makes them already feel as though it will be a sad opening as the music isn’t very upbeat. This idea is then proved correct when we hear the monologue, who we assume is from the character that we see. This more negative and sad atmosphere differs from the regular teen film, however still fits with the genre as it includes ideas such as mental health and trying to fit in. This sad monologue helps the audience feel sympathy and empathy for the character and some may relate to her. In this scene her hair and makeup is natural and her hair is somewhat messy. This could relate back to her monologue when she says that no one sees her. For this reason she may not do her hair and makeup to stand out. This is similar to her costume, which is quite casual and doesn’t express her personality much. Again, this could be because she doesn’t want to stand out. Through this, the audience could learn that she is an insecure and shy character. During her journey to the train station, wide shots are used to show her as well as the setting. It is also to show that she is the only character in the shot, making her look isolated and alone. A high angle shot is also used, which makes her appear smaller and more insignificant. The composition of the shot when she is going down the ramp includes leading lines, which draw the audience’s eyes through the shot to where the character is. The lighting is bright but quite cold and grey and it isn’t a sunny day. This could be an example of pathetic fallacy as the lighting and weather reflect the character’s negative and unhappy mood. We can see early on from her facial expression and movement that she is unhappy and awkward as she is playing with her hair and her face looks upset or fed up. However there is a shift in atmosphere when she meets the boy as she starts to smile, showing that she is more happy. Happier music also starts playing at this point which confirms this.
As we see the girl and the boy talking, the camera tilts down as the train goes past, giving the scene a sense of closure. The title of the film then appears on the screen, in white, which isn’t too garish and works with the aesthetic. It is the same font that has been used before in order to make it look consistent and more professional. It is a suitable font that works with the teen genre.
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