Emily's Elf Opening Sequence Analysis

Elf – Opening Sequence Analysis
By Emily Blatchford

This film uses actors and several CGI animations alongside them. The film ‘Elf’ has a genre of adventure but also contains a little mystery, which will automatically appeal more to the target market of children as they are able to follow a story and make guesses as to what will occur within the storyline. From the viewers position the opening sequence introduces a large amount of the narrative which provides us with plenty of information about the story line. The automatic engagement of the audience from the introduction of the film is very effective, especially on children because it is filmed in a storytelling fashion. The characters are made to seem a happy and friendly because this will help to make the children feel comfortable right from the beginning of the film. I would describe the atmosphere as happy, fun, and cheerful because from the very first shot you can tell that the film is going to be a pleasing one. The music helps to create an atmosphere by using its christmasy use of bells along with an additional jolly tune. The first scene is of an animated book which dissolves from the title screen ready to be opened revealing the storyline to the film. Continuity editing is certainly used in the first sequence of shots and it is very smooth with sharp, clean cuts. The transitions from shot to shot are almost un-recognisable because they are so quick and well edited. Most of the sequence uses linear editing up until the point where the clip changes and goes back in time, this shows a possible distortion effect, however the order of events is still very clear to the viewer because of the storytelling aspect, which makes it more understandable. The atmosphere is most definitely set thanks to the non-diagetic sound  that is played throughout, which gives a light hearted feel as it gives clues towards the narrative, and helps to set the scene. There are many special effects used at the beginning of the opening sequence that include CGI, this contributes so much to the quality of the whole film and makes it more enjoyable and appealing to the viewers. All of the shots used are extremely complex yet effortless making the sequence flow easily.  The opening sequence to the film ‘Elf’ is an excellent one as it clearly introduces the narrative and sets the scene for the film. The way in which so many shots have been included in such a short space of time has been exceptionally cleverly edited which creates a fast pace and makes the clip flow extraordinarily well. The music which was used conotates Christmas and this sets the atmosphere for the film excellently. I believe that from the clip I have analysed, this film would appeal to all children and seems to be a typical children’s film.