https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqyfMlnxmmI
In this opening there is use of mise en scene with the use of weapons. We see many characters with guns which brings about the theme of action. This is typical for a thriller film to do as it suggests violence which keeps the audience watching. There is then a mid-shot of all three characters holding a gun to one’s head. This allows for their facial expressions to be seen to one another as well as the props; weapons. This is also a convention of many films but in particular thrillers as it creates suspense and allows the audience to understand what the characters feel. There is use of non-diegetic fast paced music throughout the scene which creates suspense and tension as well as excitement for the audience. This is a convention for the thriller genre as they are meant to create this sort of atmosphere as it is a more serious genre with high levels of intensity. There is then use of a longshot when the main character pulls his gun out quickly towards the two other people. This allows the audience to establish the setting (some sort of spiritual temple) and understand where the characters are placed within that room. This fits into the thriller genre as the audience should be able to see the characters in the bigger picture as it creates tension. This shot is accompanied by a quick jolted pan following the main characters arm as he pulls out his gun. This creates a sense of speed and fast paced movement which then makes the audience alert as to what may happen next. This fast paced pan fits into the thriller genre perfectly as thrillers wouldn’t normally just have the same pace throughout as it makes it boring; therefore the use of the fact paced pan keeps it lively and exciting for the audience. There is use of cross cutting editing throughout the opening, as it cuts to when the characters are in the dream and in the present time. This is fast paced and also creates this sense of tense panic for the audience. Also, the fact that this cross cutting is happening with the same characters within each location, it raises questions for the audience and creates confusion. This level of mystery therefore makes it fit into the thriller genre. Another example of sound used is the use of dialogue from one of the characters speaking with a foreign accent. This allows the audience to understand the main character is most likely in a different country doing some sort of mystery job. Further, when hearing someone foreign in thriller films they’re most probably seen as the ‘villain’ or someone who is a threat to the main character and this therefore adheres to the thriller genre. Lastly, there is use of slow motion accompanies by a high angle shot of the main character falling into a bathtub. This creates a high level of suspense and intensity, and also makes the audience question why this moment is so important to be filmed in slow motion. Slow motion is used in thriller quite a bit to create this tension so therefore this adheres to the genre. Whilst this happens, the non-diegetic sound of music also slows and the volume lowers. This almost silence also helps to create tension and mystery.
