Analysis of a title sequence; SE7EN.

The title sequence for the film 'Se7en' doesn't begin at the start of the film; instead the first shot introduces the characters (Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman). It then introduces the plot, in doing this it gives the audience an insight into the story behind the film: Pitt and Morgan are presented as two detectives trying to solve a murder/crime of some sort. A variety of shots are used which show characters reactions and dialogue between them, ranging from longshots to close-ups. Also, tilts and pans are used to highlight the mise-en-scene of the scene.

After the scene has been established the camera then zooms into a shot of a metronome ticking loudly and flashed back then to the where the title sequence begins with a non-diegetic stormy soundtrack playing (mood music) which creates a sorrowful yet mysterious atmosphere, the soundtrack also incorporates the beat of the metronome. The next shot shows a diary, which as the title sequence furthers yo see plays a key role throughout, overlapped by flicking titles that effectively move to the continuous playing of the soundtrack. A shadow is also presents in this shot, in the background of the extreme close up of the book.

The titles are shot on a black background with a contrast of white flickering writing; the font of the writing is shown in a handwriting style, linking to the diary (Diary, pen, writing). The use of the flickering of the writing helps create the effect of the jumpiness that a thriller incorporates. This effect is also carried out into some parts of the action, mainly when we are shown the characters fingers carrying out different activities such as, writing, cutting, etc. The sequence for se7en creates suspense throughout using the generic conventions of a dark atmosphere, tense music, close-ups and extreme close-ups. Also each shot lasts no longer then 2/3seconds, keeping the audience on edge.

During the next shot cleverly adds 3/4 quick shots, again close-ups, of the only hint of colour(red)in the whole title sequence. This hint of red creates the impression of danger/blood or a dark room (where photographs are produced). The impact of this injection of colour is effective as there is very little use of any other colour/filter throughout, it also could allude to the genre of the play and hint that blood and murder are a significant part.

Throughout the title sequence there is a repetitive use of close-ups/extreme close-ups of hands and fingers, this may possibly be to put emphasis on how they are not giving away any identity as to who the diary links to whether its the murderer featuring in the film or the two detectives trying to solve the murder. When the title finishes they link into the way the film starts, through using the same font featured in them within the film and the music fades into the sound of the scene.