3.2 Analysis of opening sequences- 1. Shaun of the Dead

Shaun of the Dead (15)

Edgar Wright, Working Title Films

The first opening sequence I have decided to analyse in my chosen genre is a 2004 British comedy film called 'Shaun of the Dead'.

Title name 'Shaun of the Dead' written on the ground whilst 'zombie-figures' walk around and the tracking camera moves along to another scene. Relationship with Sound: 'Comic' music to the beat of walking zombies feet.

Symbolism: No specific symbolisims regarding title opening.

Technical Construction: The heading of the film has been applied unto the scene in order to make it a part of the scene without it actually playing a role in the shot.

DECONSTRUCTION OF SHOT SEQUENCE

Shot Types & Framing

• Medium close ups in conversations
• Pan on walking scene

Editing

• Eye-line match between two characters whilst conversing in opening scene.

Mise-En-Scene

There appears not be anything which is demonstrated as an important aspect of the film.

Lighting

• natural lighting during opening sequence. Setting is quite dark and this may be used to present the tone of conventional horror film lighting.

Sound

'Ghost Town' The Specials- non diegetic voiceover of characters in opening.

PRODUCTION

Budget: $4,000,000

This film is of a low budget and may therefore not appeal to those interested in special effects such as CGI. It is however a typical British film and is therefore not expected to contain any special effects in order to appeal to it's audience.

Working Title Films: A popular British production company based in London, England.

Director: Edgar Wright - An English Film and Television director.

Distributors: Working Title Films.

HOW THESE DETAILS IMPACT ON THE TARGET AUDIENCE?

Rating 15- 'Shaun of the Dead' is suitable for those aged 15 years and above, therefore those under the age may enjoy the film but are not part of the target audience.

Starring: Simon Pegg, an award winning actor, comedian and film producer who has starred in other films such as 'Hot Fuzz' and 'Run, Fatboy, Run' will appeal those who may have seen these later films and therefore may then go on to watch this earlier film. He also co-wrote this film and so those aware of his kind of humour will enjoy this film.

How does the opening sequence address the target audience?

The opening sequence of 'Shaun of the Dead' begins with a conversation begin two significant characters within the plot although we do not actually see anything which fits particularly with the genre 'horror-comedy'. It does however demonstrate various events and statements which can be considered humorous. There is use of particular strong language only suitable for the target audience age of 15 and above.