Student film analysis

A few lessons ago, we were showed previous students thriller openings. At first we had to guess what grade they got using the mark scheme and then after sharing our ideas we were told the real grade they received. This exercise gave me an insight into how our film will be judged so hopefully by carrying out this task, I will know what to include in my opening.
Here is the first video we watched, in my opinion I think this is the best out of all the videos we watched that lesson.

Strengths:
Camera shots- there were a variety of shots used in this and the camera was stable in most takes. There were many long shots and close ups which I think were effective as there wasn't any talking it was all voice over.
Typography- the white font was effective over a plane background, it wasn't over the top which fitted with the opening.
Editing- they used superimposed images which we're inspiring to do in our opening aswell, however they haven't over complicated it which is effective.
Mise en-scene- the location is rural and sort of out of touch with society which is effective as it suggests something sinister will happen.
Sound- you can hear the voice over clearly and the score is subtle but creates tension.

Weakness:
Editing could be improved.


I thought this opening was interesting, when I predicted the grade I thought it should of got, I was no where near the actual grade it got.

Strengths:
Editing- the quick cuts to the Barbie doll heads in black and white are effective as it shows what the character is thinking of. There is good use of match on action when he opens the door.
Mise en-scene- it is very detailed when the character goes into the garage, everything is laid out in a certain way suggesting he's a criminal maybe.
Camera- variety of shots used again.

Weaknesses:
Sound- I don't think that the use of contrapuntal music quite fits with this type of opening. The score is very jumpy and doesn't sync with what's going.
Typography- the font and titles could be worked on.


This one I thought was really good to start off with, however it looks more like a trailer instead of an opening sequence.

Strengths:
Editing- the montage of the clips at the start are effective aswell as the faces being scribbled out, this is a typical horror feature. The company logo looks professional, like a real film company has produced it. The fade in at the start is also good.
Camera- variety of shots used

Weaknesses:
Mise en-scene- the viewer can tell that there has been a change in the time of day, therefore this doesn't follow continuity.
Camera- the camera isn't held steady in some shots.
Sound- dialogue goes on for too long, could be cut down and it gets boring as it is only from one angle.