Question 1

In what ways does your opening sequence use, develop or challenge forms and conventions of real media products?

WHAT IS A CHICK FLICK? Our chosen genre for our opening

sequence is ‘Chick Flick’.

‘Chick-flick’ is a slang term for a film genre mainly dealing with love and romance and designed to appeal to a largely female target audience. Although many types of films may be directed toward the female gender, "chick-flick" is typically used only in reference to films that are heavy with emotion or contain themes that are relationship-based (although not necessarily romantic as many other themes may be present). ‘Chick Flicks’ are usually released near Valentines Day.

WHAT IS AN OPENING SEQUENCE?An opening sequence is the method by which

film company's and cast members names are shown.

In our opening sequence we have all of our names (disguised as Directors and other production titles) and our studio name ‘Lightbridge Studios’, plus it’s logo.

The opening credits of motion pictures list the most important members of the production and everyone involved are seen in the end credits. They are either shown on a blank screen where they are obvious or subtly placed in action.

We have placed our credits in shots of objects such as sale tags, clothes racks and a magazine cover. We tried to be creative yet ensure that the titles are visible and obvious to the audience.

There may be accompanying music to set the scene or so that the audience can immediately recognise the movies signature tune.

The music that is normally used in chick flicks would be categorized as Pop. It usually upbeat and catchy. However, slow and sad in emotional scenes. We used the song ‘While I’m Alive’ by STRFKR’. We chose this song because it has a solid beat, is catchy and modem.

The aim of the opening sequence is to introduce characters, the setting, the genre and the atmosphere.

We used props such as handbags, fashion magazines and make up to introduce our girly, fashion loving characters. It was mentioned in our audience feedback that our characters personality was clear through our use of mise en scene.

It is also what people use to see if they want to continue watching the film, therefore, it is important to make it engaging and interesting to watch.

We made our film engaging through its quick paced shots and continuous movement. If our shots were long and slow people may lose interest. I also believe that through our comical elements; such as Daniella and myself fighting over the bag, people would find our movie amusing. Therefore, want to continue watching.

HOW DOES OUR MOVIE OPENING SEQUENCE CHALLENGE FORMS AND

CONVENTIONS OF REAL MEDIA PRODUCTS?

I believe that our opening sequence is different from existing movies because of it’s wild west sequence. The ‘Wild West’ sequence consists of mine and Daniella’s eyes cut across from both sides, this shows a revelry and competition.

We also used the famous music theme from the movie ‘The good, the bad and the ugly’ by Ennio Morricone. As it is a well-known song, people would instantly link the action and theme.

This creates elements of comedy and suspense, making our film stand out from competing movie sequences.

The top eyes are Daniella's and the bottom are mine.