ANALYSING INTRODUCTION: Indiana jones- raiders of the lost arc (1981)

Spielberg’s Indiana Jones opening scene has many sly movie references throughout (Much like Tarintinos geeky gesture at the start of kill bill). For example the film begins with an establishing shot of a peak in the jungle reminiscent of the producer, Paramount Pictures logo.  Another jokey movie-geek reference is found on the aeroplane at the beginning ‘OB-CPO’ written along (referring to star wars) Spielberg has done this to gain connection with the audience and entice them further so throughout the film they are watching for more subtle references.

The genre is made clear (action/adventure)  from the outset by the jungle setting, tension building music and costume. The titles appear whist the film is playing in the hope that the titles get noticed as everyone would be watching. No real character introductions are given, and at first we don’t see Indiana Jones’ face he is but instead he’s established in a dimly-lit shot from behind, showing the familiar fedora-wearing silhouette that reoccurs throughout the film. He is then shown properly through the use of a close up shot allowing the audience to familiarise with the character for the 1^st time.

Similarly to pride and prejudice the music builds with the images, however this time creating a build up and atmosphere along with the daunting sounds of the jungle. Overall the genre of the film is very clear and makes the viewer want to join in on finding out about the archaeologist’s exotic adventure!