How genre affects the opening credits of films

In groups we looked at the opening scenes and opening credits of three films of very different genres.

Pulp Fiction

This is a crime film with a dark sense of humour about the lives of several criminals. This is evident in the first scene because it involves a conversation between two robbers who use a lot of strong language and slang. When they resolve to hold up the coffee shop they are in, the opening titles begin, and an upbeat, energetic soundtrack sets the tone for the rest of the film.

Juno

In the opening credits for this coming-of-age comedy-drama about a pregnant teenager, live-action is combined with animation to give a sense of the character living in her own fantasy world, with a lively feel-good song to set the mood.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

This is a very dark film, a mystery thriller involving rape and a missing girl. The opening titles echo the tone of the film, with very metallic colours in a CGI sequence with images of violence against women. The music is a heavy metal cover of Led Zeppelin's Immigrant Song, which creates a very heavy atmosphere for the film.