Film Opening Research #1 - John Wick Chapter 3

1. How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences of the film? 

The main title of the movie is displayed once at the very beginning. This is shortly after all of the production company's titles were displayed.

2. What images are prioritized in the opening sequence? 

Just before the title is displayed they show a sequence filled with coins and jewelry, as well bullets flying through the air. Shortly after this, a big city is shown from above displaying bustling streets with towering skyscrapers.

3. What connotations do the images carry? 

The many images of jewelry and coins connotate wealth and power. The jewelry looks to be very old and outdated, which shows the audience the history involved in the film. The bullet flying through the screen is very important as it previews the use of guns and fighting in the film.

4. How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset? 

The action and adventure genre is reinforced through the gloomy and vast setting of the city. The movie is set at night which establishes an adventurous feeling to the film. Also, much of the previous movies have taken place in a large city setting. The pouring rain over the streets gives a sense of chaos which further reinforces the action genre in this film.

5. How does the film establish an enigma from the outset? 

The film begins with John wick running with a sense of urgency on the sidewalk, through the pouring rain. This immediately grabs the audience's attention, making them question why he is in such a hurry, as well as the importance of this scene.

6. What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience? 

The previous john wick films have all had a sort of retro style to them, which is also apparent in the opening scene of the movie. This quickly attracts the fans of the previous John Wick films and is a good way to grab their attention. Also, a close-up of John Wicks's dog following him in the rain is shown, which could appeal to any dog lovers watching the film.

7. How has technology been used effectively? You might want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques. 

Technology has allowed the filmmakers to get wide shots of the bustling city from above, and close-ups of the towering buildings. This allows them to show the vastness of the city and the true scale of the film.