One Hour photo. Opening sequence analysis.

Here is the analysis of an opening sequence of a thriller 'One hour photo'. Next three blogs includes bullet points and my answers on questions for an accurate analysis.

How does the sequence establish the tone of the film (generate suspense)?

The title sequence opening creates suspense from the musical score. Tense, suspenseful, orchestral music plays in the background, with a drum beat and deep bass creating a tense tone to the film, steadily building up suspense. The music steadily increases pitch to a climax, which coincides with a camera flash going off, possibly showing that a this film revolves around danger, specifically involving cameras. The scene of the mans photo developing into the police shows that there is an element of danger in this movie.

 

 How does the film introduce where and when the film is set?

The use of old technology, for example a large bulky computer introduce the time period; possibly between the mid 80's and the early 90's due to the large equipment that is uncommon today. The fact that the main character has his photo developed into the Evans County Police Department records gives the audience the area that it is set in, Evans County in Georgia.



 

 

How does the sequence introduce characters?

The sequence introduces the protagonist by revealing him using a computer screen, loading an image of his face. This shows he is in legal trouble for some reason. We learn that he has a connection to photography from his knowledge of the subject, for example asking the detective "do you guys have your own lab or do you have to send them out?" referring to the roll of film found in his bag. The detective is introduced as being professional but kind; firstly from the dialogue ("You do not have to talk to me if you don't want to") and also from the composition of the shots. He sits down, allowing a 2 person over the shoulder shot to reveal that they are at the same level, possibly suggesting their equality. The over the shoulder shot also presents the fact that the protagonist is being watched through the mirror screen.

 

 How does the film use text titles to tell you about the themes of the film? (how do they move, what colour and font has been chosen?)

The titles of the film immediately tell us that this film has a big theme of photography; each title is presented as a "slide"and disappears after it has exposed. The fact that the text turns red and then fades could represent danger or violence in the movie, creating tension for the audience, the audience pays more attention to the movie.