Analysis of Film Opening. (THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT)

'The Butterfly Effect' begins in an unknown environment which has extremely dark lighting, we are unaware of the environment which the character is in however we can see him behind blinds which makes him half-visible and almost distorted. Non-diegetic sound, artificial sound is used to build intensity, the sound used is unnatural which suggests a supernatural or inhuman nature within the storyline. Tracking us used to show the main character (Evan) running to find an entrance to the room however in terms of editing, slow motion effects are used to exaggerate and highlight the dramatic nature of the scene and again distort the image on the screen.

Non-diegetic and diegetic sound meet as percussion music intensifies and a drum beat thuds as the door slams open. Throughout this opening sequence, the non-diegetic sound intensifies and lowers alongside the picture. Once Evan enters the room, we notice he is in a hospital uniform which suggests he is either an authority figure or a patient, we soon assume he is either trying to escape from a bad situation or save himself as he rushes and shot reverse shots are rapid pace along with the panning and tracking used as he manoeuvres in the room.

Digetic sound becomes a main feature in the opening as Evan begins to read aloud what he is writing on the paper, yet we are still aware of his situation or a storyline which we should expect. Intensity builds as the audience can also hear outside voices whom seem to be searching for Evan and they wonder whether he is in trouble, or danger. Suspense is also built as Evan is extremely out of breath and is writing at high speed, the camera switches to him writing and zooms in as he writes that he needs to 'save her'. Audiences are then aware that his intentions are to protect or save a female and we are given a brief outline of what to expect later in the production.

The titles used are natural however distorted which is a frequent theme within this opening. The colours are almost like an x-ray and although butterflies are natural creatures, the colours and lighting make them appear artificial.