Art of the Opening Scene — How to Start a Movie 6 Different Ways, From Nolan to Baumbach

As any seasoned filmmaker knows, the opening scene of a movie carries immense weight. It’s the first impression, the initial hook that grabs the audience’s attention and sets the tone for the entire story to come. From pulse-pounding action sequences to poignant character introductions, the opening scene is a canvas for creative expression, laying the groundwork for the narrative journey ahead.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore six distinct techniques that writers and directors employ to craft unforgettable opening scenes, each one designed to captivate audiences from the very first frame. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or a cinephile seeking deeper insights, this article will unravel the artistry behind some of the most iconic opening moments in movie history.

1. Enter the Villain: Introducing the Antagonist

One surefire way to hook an audience is by introducing the villain right from the start. Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” exemplifies this technique, immediately thrusting viewers into a high-stakes bank heist orchestrated by the Joker and his crew. Within the first five pages of the script, we witness a dynamic action sequence that not only grabs our attention but also establishes the Joker as a truly memorable and menacing antagonist.

As the scene unfolds, we’re treated to a masterclass in character development, with the Joker’s ruthless actions and chilling one-liners painting a vivid portrait of his twisted psyche. This approach not only raises the stakes but also sets the stage for the epic conflict to come, ensuring that the audience is invested in the hero’s journey from the get-go.

2. Enter the Hero: Showcasing the Protagonist’s Prowess

On the flip side, some filmmakers choose to introduce their protagonist in a grand, larger-than-life manner. The opening sequence of “Skyfall” is a prime example, treating viewers to a heart-pounding, 10-minute chase scene that showcases James Bond’s skill and bravery as he pursues a mercenary through the crowded streets of Istanbul.

While the sequence may not directly advance the plot, it serves as a thrilling introduction to our hero, raising the stakes and setting the tone for the high-octane adventure that lies ahead. As Bond falls from a harrowing height, only to reappear later with his signature quip, “007 reporting for duty,” we’re immediately reminded of his unwavering determination and resilience.

This technique not only hooks the audience with its sheer spectacle but also sets the stage for character arcs and narrative themes that will unfold throughout the film.

3. Establishing Relationships: Humanizing the Characters

Sometimes, the most effective way to draw an audience in is by humanizing the characters and their relationships. Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story” masterfully achieves this through its opening scene, which offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Charlie and Nicole, a couple on the brink of divorce.

With a home video aesthetic and raw, confessional-style interviews, we’re given a crash course in Charlie and Nicole’s marriage, their hopes, fears, and the intricate dynamics that bind them together. By the time we reach the mediation scene on page 9, we’re already deeply invested in their story, understanding the high stakes and emotional turmoil that accompany the dissolution of their relationship.

This approach not only establishes empathy for the characters but also lays the foundation for the film’s exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of modern relationships.

4. The Plot Catalyst: Introducing the Inciting Incident

Some films choose to open with a scene that serves as the catalyst for the entire narrative, setting the story in motion and establishing the central conflict. The Safdie Brothers’ “Uncut Gems” is a prime example, beginning with an excavation scene in Ethiopia that uncovers a rare and mesmerizing opal.

This seemingly innocuous opening sequence takes on profound significance as the film progresses, with the opal becoming a symbol of obsession, greed, and the inherent danger of chasing one’s desires. By introducing this plot-driving element early on, the filmmakers lay the groundwork for the high-stakes drama that unfolds, allowing audiences to understand the allure and power this gem holds over the characters.

This technique not only sets the stage for the narrative but also imbues the film with a sense of inevitability, as if the entire story were destined to unfold from this single, pivotal moment.

5. Setting the Tone: Capturing the Essence of the Genre

In some cases, the opening scene serves as a masterful encapsulation of the film’s genre and thematic essence. Damien Chazelle’s “La La Land” is a prime example, kicking off with an exuberant, elaborately choreographed musical number that perfectly captures the whimsical spirit of the film.

As the camera sweeps through a traffic jam on a Los Angeles freeway, the song “Another Day of Sun” bursts onto the scene, with vibrant costumes, infectious lyrics, and a sea of dancers filling the frame. This sequence not only establishes the film’s tone and genre but also introduces the central theme of dreaming big and chasing one’s artistic passions.

By immersing the audience in this fantastical world from the very first moments, the filmmakers create a powerful contrast with the harsh realities of life in Los Angeles, setting the stage for the story’s exploration of the tension between fantasy and reality.

6. Genre Blending: Defying Expectations and Crossing Boundaries

Finally, some films use their opening scenes to defy genre conventions and set the stage for a unique, genre-blending experience. Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” is a masterful example, seamlessly fusing elements of horror, comedy, and social commentary right from the opening moments.

The scene begins with a familiar horror trope – a lone black man walking through a suburban neighborhood at night – but quickly subverts expectations with comedic banter and a pop soundtrack that adds an unsettling layer of irony. As the scene progresses, the tone shifts seamlessly between moments of levity and outright terror, culminating in a brutal assault that firmly establishes the film’s exploration of racial themes.

By blending genres and tones in this opening sequence, Peele not only hooks the audience with intrigue and suspense but also sets the stage for a multi-layered narrative that defies easy categorization. This approach challenges preconceptions and invites audiences to embrace the film’s broader themes and messages.

Conclusion

As these examples illustrate, the opening scene of a film is a powerful storytelling tool, capable of captivating audiences, setting the tone, and establishing the narrative foundation for the entire cinematic experience. Whether introducing a compelling protagonist, raising the stakes with high-octane action, or blending genres to defy expectations, the possibilities are endless.

For filmmakers and screenwriters, crafting a memorable opening scene requires a deft touch, combining technical mastery with a deep understanding of storytelling and audience engagement. By studying the techniques employed by industry masters, we can gain valuable insights into the art of hooking an audience and setting the stage for a truly unforgettable cinematic journey.

So, the next time you settle in to watch a film, pay close attention to those opening moments – they may just be the key to unlocking the magic and artistry that lie ahead.