Opening Sequence Analysis- 9 Shot Analysis

The two minute opening sequence of "The Talented Mr Ripley" begins with the 'Paramount' and 'Miramax' logos being shown. A fraction of the main character is shown with the credits beside him, this imcludes the actor's name 'Matt Damon'. The character not being fully shown creates an enigma as the audience wonder what he has to hide. The scene then cuts to the man in the previous scene in a prestige setting playing the piano for a group of wealthy people with an opera singer by his side. This gives the audience some more insight into the character's interests, job and hobbies. The title of the film gives the viewer the knowledge of one of the character's names "Mr Ripley". The fact that he is described as talented creates a curiousity within the viewer, they want to watch the film in order to understand why he is talented. When a part of the man is shown in the first minute, we assume that he is "The Talented Mr Ripley".The lack of knowledge within the audience creates suspension and keeps them interested.

The song 'Lullaby For Cain' by Sinead O' Connor is played continuously throughout the opening sequence. When the scene switches from the mans face to the opera singer we realise she is the one singing the song. A sound bridge is used which turns the music from non-diagetic to diagetic. In the second scene set on the roof, a voiceover is heard speaking over the consistent music. The voiceover is the male character's thoughts which expresses his desire to go back in time and 'start by changing' his self. This is effective as it causes the viewer to become curious as to what events this character would want to change. We recognize that the genre of music is opera, this linked with the upper class roof top setting causes the viewer to assume this film surrounds characters of the wealthy, elite kind.

The four micro areas work together to create a tense and gripping opening sequence. The close up of the main characters face in the first scene gives a clear indication that he is an important cast member which also links to the title of the film. This is followed by a box slide transition, which is different to an ordinary cut. This works well in an opening sequence because it separates the credits from the actual film. A box slide transition causes the viewer to recognize that this is the opening sequence, this is because a box slide transition would traditionally not be used in the middle of a film as it would break the continuity. The close up on the man's face helps the audience to become familiar with this character. The long shot duration on his face makes the viewer intrigued as to who this man is and if he is Mr Ripley. There is a match on action from the man's face looking down while sitting, to his hands playing the piano. This creates an enigma as to whether piano playing is Mr Ripley's talent, or if it is something more sinister.