Opening Sequence- The Dark Knight

Poster

We chose this sequence because we liked the way it cuts straight into mid action sequence. Also it breaks the common conventions of film opening sequences and it keeps the identity of the main character anonymous to the audience.

Mise-en-scene

In the sequence all of the robbers are wearing clown masks which shows that they are under the instructions of the Joker. However we do not know that the Joker is one of them and is in the scene throughout. When he is revealed at the end of the sequence, it is almost like this is the start of the film. All of the victims in the bank are smartly dressed and this shows that they are wealthy.

The opening sequence starts at the begining of the day and this becomes apparent after a school bus is driven into the wall of the bank. When the school bus leaves all of the other school buses are on the way to school. The scene is mostly set in the bank and on top of buildings so that the robbers are hidden from people on ground level.

Sound

Sound effects such as glass shattering, gunshots, bus crashing through wall. These are used throughout the entire sequence. Also the use of dialogue sets up the story and reveals more about the identity of one of the main characters the Joker.

Camera work

Lots of close ups on the clowns faces, zoom in from behind the Joker down to his clown mask however we don't yet know its the Joker. Close-ups of the guns to build tension and to threat.