Analysis of 'Memento' 1

I will be analysing the opening sequence of the movie 'Memento' which was released in 2002, filmed in the USA and directed by Christopher Nolan. There are many conventions in the opening sequence which is successful in making it enjoyable to watch.

The title 'Memento' appears at the beginning of the movie, the font is in bold, with block letters in light blue. The letters are spread out from the word; there is space between each letter. This title stays on the screen for a while, continues to stay on the foreground of the establishing shot, where there is the close up of the hand and the photograph. Straight away this title has an affect on the audience because it makes them feel ready to watch the movie. The title has a slow transition which fades away, this affects the audience because it automatically puts them into a soft calm atmosphere, ready to watch the film.

The opening sequence of the movie is abandoned buildings which look very old, when the viewer see's this they automatically feel and know that it is a thriller due to the doll building being shown. The scene , location is dark and gloomy, this has been chosen to make the audience feel creepy.

Mains Props Used
The main props used, is the palaroid picture which is being shaken, when being shaken the appearance changes. This still photograph straight away gives the audience information about the film and reveals why maybe the film is called 'Memento'.

The camera shots are very steady and still, there are'nt many quick shots at the begining of the movie becasue its drawing in the audience with small information, allowing them to take it in slowly. The transitions between the black out and the establishing shot is a slow paced movement. It is slow, so it can make the audience feel down and more to start thinking what this film is going to be about? and so on.

How does the opening sequence relate to the rest of the film?
The opening sequence relates to the rest of the film as it shows what happens between the two main characters. in the film there is the flash backs and repeated shots from the opening sequence which is repeated to reveal why it has happened. Also the opening sequence is the end of the film but its shown differently.