Opening Sequences and Characters - Conclusion

Having looked at two opening sequences from films that are from different genres, I’ve noticed that directors use various techniques to introduce characters to the audience. These include making it clear what their character traits/personality is like, delivering exposition about the characters through a voiceover, or through the iconography/mise-en-scene of the scene such as their costume, props or body language. Using these techniques, allows the audience to understand how the character may act/react throughout the rest of the film, creating specific expectations about them that will either be fulfilled or cheated as the narrative progresses. This setting up of characters in opening sequences helps the audience become more invested in the characters and their actions.