The Taking Of Pelham 123: Opening Sequence Analysis

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

The sequence's use of sound throughout gives the audience the first clues about the tone of the movie. It starts off very low, chordal and intense, then breaks into a heavy rock rendition of a rap song, with heavy chords and an urban feel. By listening to the soundtrack, I can tell the movie is going to be intense and modern, the opening chord creates the most suspense as it is mysterious and chilling.
 

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

In the first establishing shot, it shows a busy city skyline full of skyscrapers and buildings, which we know from various landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller Centre. The shots of yellow cabs, which New York is famous for, anchors this, as well as the shots of busy streets full of people.
 

How does the sequence introduce characters?

The sequence introduces characters by focusing in on the character and following their movements for a few seconds. Most of the sequence is slightly unfocused, especially on the shots of people walking through the city, until a man in a black beanie hat and sunglasses is shown in slow motion walking into a subway station with a focused lens, which connotes his involvement in the film's main plot. We are then introduced to a man and shown a brown duffel bag and a badge saying 'MTA' with a broken nose, glasses and a hat standing on a subway platform. These shots are all juxtaposed, suggesting that these are important features that are useful clues to the audience.

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?)