Analysis of Se7en Opening Film Sequence

Mise-En-Scene:
The location of the opening seems to be in a dark mysterious location which instantly gives the audience the impression that what is happening in this film is evil, also there are lots of shots of opening books and writing down unclear symbols and words- this shows the mysterious man who is in this scene is planning something bad maybe even murder by the way he is playing with razors, pictures of people are on the pages in his books and flashes of red flood the screen. Also the hands of the mysterious man are very dis formed and gruesome to look at, this can give the audience an insight to the characteristics of this man and it furthers the impression that he may be a murderer.

Sound:
The non diegetic sound in the sequence is very un-nerving and on edge, it makes the audience feel uncomfortable, the sound almost runs through your body and makes you shiver which symbolises this is not a film for the faint hearted and it is preparing them for what is about to unfold in the remainder of the film. Also in some points you can hear a sound similar to a woman screeching, so it adds to the fear factor and the anticipation of the audience to know what this man is doing.

Camera:
There are lots of close ups used of writings and books, this makes the audience feel as if they cant escape and are right in with the mysteries that are about to unfold. Also lots of quick shots are used so the audience can't quite work out what is on the screen or what the writing says, this adds to the mystery of the scene and not knowing whats there makes the audience feel alot more fear.

Credits:
The opening credits are included to show the audience the big names that the film features to make the film look professional and high budget. The font of the credits almost look like a ransom letter and are distorted and blurry- this makes the audience feel as if they are disorientated and is the film is crazy and delusional.

Conventional Elements:
The film includes conventions such as:
-Non diegetic music.
-A brief intro to one of the main characters which leaves the audience wanting to see more.
-A hint to the genre
-Narrative enigma (Leaving the audience asking what is this delusional man doing or planning?)
-Film company logo (not shown in the youtube clip)