Film Opening Research #1- Les Miserables

How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?

Only one title is shown in the opening sequence, it is the year and where the shot takes place.

What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

Dark, harrowing images of a huge ship being dragged into port by many prisoners.

What connotations do the images carry?

There is a gloomy, dark, and disparaging connotation shown through the tumultuous weather and the incredible size of the ship versus the small prisoners. 

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

The incredible score of the movie immediately begins to play and the characters are singing, which is characteristic of a movie musical.

How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

The looming figure of Javert standing on top of the wall adds a sense of fear and enigma.

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

Immediately the iconic overture of the musical begins playing, so the target audience understands that this is truly a movie adaptation of the original "Les Miserables".

How has technology been used effectively? 

CGI and stunning carefully picked out camera angles work together to show the monstrosity of the ship versus the small, struggling humans amidst the storm.