Research into Similar Media Texts

As part of my research I looked at three opening sequences. In them, I examined various aspects of them.

The first opening sequence was Juno.

• We immediately have an indication of genre is a “coming of age” film, as we are immediately introduced to the main character, a teenage girl. This is also indicated through her costume, as she wears jeans, a jumper and trainers, she looks very casually dressed.
• During the title sequences Juno is seen walking down a street, with the rural location becoming a cartoon. This hints at the fact the main characters are young adolescents. This also indicates her state of mind whilst walking down the street as if she is daydreaming, before the setting soon becomes normal again, and she returns to reality. This also focuses the audience’s attention on Juno, that she is the main character.
• The credits and text are bold as they are coloured in red, however it indicates and reflects youth, with a hint of immaturity, like the characters.
• The music used in the title sequence is folk-style and is quite upbeat. It does not seem parallel with the mood that Juno has previously created, but fits well with the scene of her walking down the street.
• There are many different camera angles used in this opening sequence, and starts with an establishing shot, to show the audience the main setting and location. There is also the use of close ups as Juno whispers in Paulie’s ear, which is used to build tension, as there is a prolonged pause between their speech. 
• During this opening sequence, the titles comes after the establishing shot and the main introduction to the characters. It is not until Juno is walking down the street the main titles and credits occur. 
• Mise en scene in this opening sequence: all characters are very casually dressed, indicatingthis is a normal day. The scene: the location, Juno's home, gives the impression that they live a very normal lifestyle, she does is not majorly wealthy.
• The target audience for this film is indicated through the age of the main characters.
• Women: are represented through Juno. She seems slightly immature, however the stereotypical female is not indicated through her clothing. Men are seen as being quite passive, however there is a male business owner.