Film and Opening Research #1- "The Reef Stalked"

FILM AND OPENING RESEARCH - THE REEF STALKED

1. How many titles are displayed during the opening sequence to the film? (6)

-Thrills and Spills (Production name)

-Filmology Finance Presents

-In association with SCREEN QUEENSLAND

-And AMP

-& Thrills and Spills

-& Mysterious Light Productions

2. What images are prioritized in the opening sequence? 

The outside ocean was prioritized and so was the inside (reef, fish, deep down).

3. What connotations do the images carry? 

The images shown at the beginning of the film are meaningful because they convey an emotion of peace to the audience, which may represent what many horror films liked to do to give a foreshadowing effect for the viewers. The use of calm, beautiful scenery and music appears to be saying one thing but is actually saying another. 

4. How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset? 

This genre (Horror) is reinforced through symbolic codes from the outset by starting off with a dark image with red writing in all caps saying "Shudder" with a transition that creates suspense. in technical codes, the genre is reinforced by how the camera was slowly going through the deep dark reef giving the audience a weird feeling with the sad music in the background playing as well. 

5. How does the film establish an enigma (mystery) from the outset? 

The film establishes enigma during the opening scene through the suspenseful/sad music, dark lightings, red writing, sketchy transitions, slow clips, all to build anticipation and mystery. 

6. What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience? 

Visual style, pacing, soundtrack & design, narrative hooks and genre indication.

7. How has technology been used effectively?

The use of high-quantity cameras enhances the visual appeal of the opening scene. Sound systems and high-quality audio equipment created a more engaging experience for the audience. The editing techniques led to more seamless transitions in each clip to distribute a different sense.