The Silence of the Lambs Opening Sequence Analysis

Narrative:
Silence of the Lambs' narrative of it's opening sequence is linear, as all the events run in cronalogical order, this helps the audiences understanding and ease of viewing.

Codes & Conventions:
The opening also consists of several codes and conventions of the thriller genre, such as the question and answer model as the audience are suddenly faced with several questions (why is she running? where is she running to?). Alike this, Mazes and Labyrinths are included in this, as we do not know why she looks left and right. Concealment is also used at the end of the sequence when her facial expression shows her to be shocked, we do not know why or what she is looking at. There is also a shot that shows words on a tree, hurt, agony, pain, these are all symbolic of thrillers and this may portray what we should expect for the remainder of the film.

Camerawork:
Camerawork is used in this opening to give understanding of her surroundings and to apply further conventions of the thriller genre. During the begining there is an establishing shot which also pans to show her surroundings. A tracking shot is also used to portray the speed she is running at. A shot during this sequence is quite symbolic of the genre, which is a point of view. When she is running through the woods a high angled shot follows her from behind, this may suggest that there is someone or something in the woods yet to be revealed, this gains the audiences interest and focus.

Mise-En-Scene
The lighting in this is bright, and the several establishing shots emphasise how alone she is, this may also portray her vulnerability, however this is lessened as she approaches the FBI building and begins to communicate with others.

Sound:
The non diegetic sound that is used is slow calming music which is relaxing, yet the music picks up speed and tension as she begins to run faster. There are also diegetic sounds that are heard, such as footsteps on the leaves and dialogue, breathing is also heard which carries codes and conventions of the thriller genre

Editing:
The editing is slow and contains lots of long takes, this is also relaxing, which suggests that there is nothing to be afraid of, however her body language and emotions seem quite anxious and nervous.

Graphics:
The graphics are big, bold and are in capitals, this makes them stand out, along with how they are highlighted.