Conventions of opening sequences

Conventions of opening sequence

Opening sequences are seen in all pieces of film and television in every genre and style of media, however all opening sequences follow a similar common formula and contain the same conventions and elements. The thriller genre in particular has a very formulaic structure in it's opening sequences.
The common conventions seen in thrillers' opening sequences include builing suspence, this utilizes various techniques relating to narrative, mise en scene, cinematography as well as sound and editing.
Commonly, the opening sequence helps establish the diagesis in which the film takes place, the norm is established and the disequilibriem, is hinted that. Usually, particularly in crime thrillers, a smaller disequilibriem is established and solved in the beggining of the film, giving an impression of the competience or background of the character before they persue the main storyline. In more action orientated media, the piece may begin with a fight scene or chase, this excites the audience, letting them know the kind of action to expect later on in the film.