Argo opening sequence analysis

1. ARGO
After evaluating the opening sequence of ARGO, we can see
excellent use of editing, cinematography, mise en scene
and sound to create a thrilling and tense beginning to the
film.

2. INTRODUCTION
The opening sequence of ARGO is unlike modern thriller, because
it entirely introduces the films background and context. It is
similar to the thriller films of the 1990’s like Scarface and
Goodfellas, in how it draws the audience in by introducing them
to the entire plot. Through the use of all media techniques, the
director creates tension and suspense surrounding the opening
sequence.

3. CINEMATOGRAPHY
In the extract, the directors use of cinematography is very effective in creating
a tense atmosphere for the audience. The use of an extreme close-up of the
man’s eyes heightens the intensity and emotional drama for the audience. It
puts emphasis on the concern the character has for the situation, and so
makes the audience worried for his safety.

4. SOUND
The use of narration in this opening sequence is very effective in introducing
the films background, and drawing the audience into the films plot. The
female voice is gentle, but also creates sympathy when talking about the
pain the Iranian people were suffering. Furthermore, her pronunciation of
Iranian names and terms is very accurate, making the audience intrigued in
what she is saying. The slow fading increase in sound of the mob shouting,
creates tension and a build in suspense.

5. EDITING
In the opening sequence, there is a combination between real footage from
1979,and footage that is filmed for the film. This use of montage editing
intrigues the audience because it shows them that this film follows a true
story, and that the drama and danger was real. The use of editing when
the colour fades over the storyboard relates to the films plot, and how
storyboards are used in the film later on.

6. MISE EN SCENE
The mise en scene in the opening sequence is very appropriate to the film, and
the time era it is situated in. The film is set between 1979 and 1980 during
the Iranian hostage crisis, and so the use of the mob and burning American
flag is related to the films context. Their anger is portrayed in their actions,
signs and the burning of the American flag. Burning the American national
flag is considered highly disrespectful to Americans, and so it is clear to the
audience that Iranians are extremely angry.