Analysing 2 title sequences (7)

We have looked at the title sequences for Black Swan and Stepfather. These are my analysis on both:

Black Swan


The sequence begins with the name of the film distribution company closely followed by the name of Natalie Portman. Her name is first from all other actors as she is the most prominent face in this film and therefore the one who brings the most audience to it.

The title sequence of 'Black Swan' has a great sense of mystery with mostly  fast-paced shots of a dancing ballerina and splotches of blood on white cloth. This edit helps give the audience glimpses of what is to be expected without actually providing any solid information. We never see the face of the dancer nor do we know who the blood belongs to (or if it actually is blood since the clip is in black and white).

The sound used for the sequence is tense classical music which gives the audience a sense of danger and potentially a sinister threat. The violin begins playing softly and becomes more tense further on. This creates tension and a feeling of suspense.
Also, the graceful dancing of the ballerina is a complete contrast to the messy blood being splotched on cloths. This along with the music gives a sense of something being wrong and therefore sets an expectation for the audience.

The Stepfather

The Stepfather also begins with the company presenting the film, however, after this the title of the film appears. This is because there is no major actor or actress playing in this film and bringing audience, making it of no use to put the name of the actors first.

Similarly to 'Black Swan' ' The Stepfather' starts off mysteriously- no script or sounds to give the audience any clues. The shots mainly consist of close ups and medium close-up of a character shaving. Therefore, we aren't sure of his setting in the begging.
Significantly, we get a close-up shot of neatly arranged shaving instruments. This is important as it gives us a glimpse of the character's mental state. He is portrayed as a slight control freak and potentially obsessive.
Another significant shot from the begging is when he cuts himself as the presence of blood suggests danger.
There is a theme of the colour red in the title sequence- the shaving equipment pouch, the blood and Christmas decorations. This further connotes danger and brings tension to the audience.

Lastly, the sequence begins with quiet but tense music but later on switches to a relaxing Christmas carol. This is contrapuntal music as it contradicts the disturbing shots of dead family members.