Analysing Action Genre Opening Sequences - Conclusion

In conclusion, the opening sequences of action films frequently contain specific conventions associated with the genre, which allows audiences to immediately recognise the genre and create particular expectations about the plot and the tone of the film that follows. 

The main action genre conventions I found in the opening scenes include:

• Cinematography specific to the genre - aerial shots/extreme long shots are common to introduce the setting of the film. Loose/tight framing are common in opening scenes as they suggest to the audience that the characters are in danger or vulnerable or are in conflict and about to fight. Finally, close ups are used to highlight the significance of certain props which could play an important role later on in narrative of the film.

• Editing typical of the genre - fast-paced editing is used in opening scenes to create a thrilling tone, to create intensity and to get the audience's adrenaline pumping. Slow-paced editing is sometimes used in opening scenes to create suspense or enigma, ahead of the pace quickening as scenes become more intense.

• Sound that instantly indicates the film belongs to the action genre - Non-diegetic music is used to enhance scenes (often loud, fast-paced and exciting) and pleonastic sounds make scenes more thrilling for the audience (also adding the intensity of experience that audiences expect from the genre).

• Iconography reflective of the action genre - characters are frequently shown carrying weapons or  technologically advanced gadgets, and opening scenes typically take place in either urban environments (increasing the risk of civilian casualties) or isolated locations (which highlight the vulnerability/danger the protagonist may be in).

• Narrative structure typical of the action genre - there is typically an inciting incident (one that reinforces the danger that not only the protagonist is in, but also a wider threat to society or people the protagonist cares about) which leads to the protagonist having to go on a mission. This is usually set up in the opening scene (where any sense of narrative equilibrium is immediately shattered) and the rest of the film sees the protagonist having to overcome a series of ever-more challenging obstacles in order to save the day and return to a new equilibrium.

• Character types typical of the genre are often introduced in the opening scene - There is usually a ‘hero’ who saves the day, and they are usually shown in the opening scenes of action films so the audience can feel connected to them from the beginning and so they feel they have been on the journey with them at the end. Sometimes the 'hero' is shown in a non-action situation - such as a domestic scene - where they are presented as out of shape, not up to the task, not the man they used to be - but commonly the audience witness the 'hero' engaged in an action set-piece (such as a chase or a fight) so as to foreground the character's traits and skills. Occasionally the opening scene of an action film will focus on the antagonist, highlighting the threat he or she poses.

• The title cards seen in action film opening sequences feature fonts (bold, blocky, capitalised and typically sans serif) which instantly connote the genre.