Art of the Opening Scene — How to Start a Movie 6 Different Ways, From Nolan to Baumbach

Summary

This video script explores the art of captivating audiences with the opening scene of a film. It highlights various techniques such as starting with action, focusing on characters, or setting the tone, using examples from films like 'The Dark Knight', 'Skyfall', 'Marriage Story', 'Uncut Gems', 'La La Land', and 'Get Out'. The script emphasizes the importance of an impactful introduction to engage viewers and set the stage for the story.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The opening scene of a film is crucial as it sets the stage for the story and hooks the audience.
• 💥 Starting with an action sequence is a common way to immediately grab the audience's attention, as seen in 'The Dark Knight'.
• 🏃‍♂️ 'Skyfall' uses a chase sequence to introduce the hero and set the tone for the character's journey.
• 👥 'Marriage Story' uses a home video aesthetic to quickly establish the characters and their relationship dynamics.
• 💔 The opening of 'Marriage Story' also subtly foreshadows the couple's impending separation.
• 💎 'Uncut Gems' begins with an excavation scene to lay the foundation for the significance of the gem and its impact on the characters.
• 🎼 'La La Land' uses music and vibrant visuals to contrast fantasy with reality, setting the tone for the film.
• 😱 'Get Out' blends horror and comedy in its opening to prepare the audience for a genre-crossing story with a complex message.
• 🎵 The soundtrack in 'Get Out' plays a significant role in setting the film's tone, combining humor with an underlying sense of dread.
• 🔍 Opening scenes can utilize various techniques like flashbacks, flash-forwards, dreams, metaphors, and MacGuffins to engage the audience.
• 📝 A great opening scene is an opportunity to make a strong impact and should be utilized to its fullest potential.

Q & A

What is considered the most valuable 'real estate' in a film according to the script?

The first scene of a film is considered the most valuable 'real estate' because it is crucial in hooking the audience from the start.

What is the purpose of starting a film with an action sequence?

Starting a film with an action sequence is meant to grab the audience's attention immediately, even if it has little to do with the actual plot.

How does the opening scene of 'The Dark Knight' serve as an introduction to the villain?

The opening scene of 'The Dark Knight' introduces the villain through a dynamic action sequence that showcases his ruthlessness and sets the tone for his character.

What is the significance of the 10-minute chase sequence in the opening of 'Skyfall'?

The chase sequence in 'Skyfall' is significant as it not only grabs the audience with its spectacle but also informs Bond's character and the stakes for the rest of the story.

How does the opening of 'Marriage Story' use a home video aesthetic to reveal character insights?

The home video aesthetic in 'Marriage Story' quickly establishes the characters' personalities and their relationship dynamics, providing a deep understanding of who they are and what they care about.

What is the role of the excavation scene in the opening of 'Uncut Gems'?

The excavation scene in 'Uncut Gems' sets the foundation for the film's central plot device—the gem—by introducing its mysterious effects and the hope and violence it represents.

How does 'La La Land' use its opening scene to establish the film's tone?

In 'La La Land', the opening scene uses a vibrant musical number to contrast the excitement of dreams with the reality of daily life, establishing the film's tone of fantasy versus reality.

What is the unique blend of genres established in the opening scene of 'Get Out'?

The opening scene of 'Get Out' blends horror, comedy, and social commentary, preparing the audience for a story that crosses genres and carries a multi-layered message.

What narrative techniques can be used in an opening scene according to the script?

Narrative techniques such as flashbacks, flash-forwards, dreams, metaphors, bookends, red herrings, and MacGuffins can be used in an opening scene to engage the audience.

What is the importance of making the opening scene count in a film?

The opening scene is important because it sets the stage for the entire story, introduces characters and themes, and can significantly impact the audience's engagement and perception of the film.

Where can viewers find more examples of iconic opening scenes?

Viewers can find more examples of iconic opening scenes on the StudioBinder blog, which ranks the best opening scenes of all time.