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

[@StudioBinder]

Chapters: 00:00 Intro - The Opening Scene 01:20 Technique 1: Enter the Villain 02:07 Technique 2: Enter the Hero 03:39 Technique 3: Establish Relationships 05:17 Technique 4: Plot Catalyst 07:03 Technique 5: Follow Genre 08:24 Technique 6: Flip Genre 10:40 Flashbacks 10:52 Flash-forwards 11:27 Dreams 11:53 Metaphors 12:15 Bookends 12:30 Red Herrings 13:17 MacGuffins 13:48 Final Takeaways

[@fedenavarro3466]

The list of movies please!!! Thank you!!

[@StudioBinder]

@@fedenavarro3466 Movies are listed on the bottom right of the screen as they appear!

[@DDumbrille]

The announcer/voice over dude is SO wrong for this. Should've had a real screenwriter or producer narrate it. Really bad job...

[@KootFloris]

I think you forgot opening scenes that betray the whole movie, in ways you'll only realize when analyzing the movie afterward. You refer to it in Bond and Get Out, but then only related to one aspect. I mean encompassing the whole movies essence. Now you want an example, and I remember seeing a video on it, but not the movie. Sorry.

[@Digitalhunny]

The narrator of this video is God tier level! Just _WoW!_

[@diptendupaul4686]

I think for The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises, Nolan begins those films by introducing us to the Antagonists and what they are capable of. This is because we are already aware of how the Protagonist, Bruce Wayne has become The Batman and achieved the heights of a Hero in the first film of the Trilogy.

[@StudioBinder]

That's an interesting take!

[@marckolsters2279]

Yes, I agree. I am working on a script now that does that. Show what the Antagonist can to set it up for later.

[@Yvaelle]

Just to hammer that point home, the opening scene of Batman Begins is Bruce falling down the well and being paralyzed in fear of bats, unable to act (the start of his heroes journey). So Batman Begins breaks the pattern of Enter The Villain, by starting with Enter The Hero, rather than focusing on Ras Al'Ghul: the antagonist of the first movie. It's not just that Nolan prefers starting with Enter The Villain's, he's making a deliberate choice to start with the protagonist of the story. Alternately, he may also always be starting with the protagonist, in a sense. Batman is the protagonist and hero of the first movie, but in TDK the Joker is the character that the movie is really about, Batman is a known quantity - so Joker is the star of the movie, even though he's the Villain. The movie becomes about how Batman is changed by the Joker - in a sense Joker successfully kills the idea of Batman, as he retires between movie 2 and 3: the idea of Batman The Hero no longer being helpful to Gotham - he even accepts the crimes of Harvey Dent and becomes Batman The Villain, because that's what Gotham needs (remaining to the audience a selfless hero of course, but not the general public). In Rise he again begins with Bane as the opening scene on the plane heist, because Bane is the protagonist of the plot even though he's the villain. I think the intention with Rise was to show that Bane changes Batman to realize he cannot win every fight alone, he needs a team - it was supposed to introduce Catwoman (Anne Hathaway) and Robin (Joseph Gordon-Levitt): but Rise didn't stick the landing the way that TDK did. Still the idea was the same, start with the protagonist in all three movies, even when in two of those movies it's the villain.

[@diptendupaul4686]

@@Yvaelle That's also an interesting point out!

[@AnkitSharma-fu9io]

Great point

[@Evan_Makeba]

The golden lesson I took from drama school was: Always start a story running. NEVER let you audience catch up to you. Always be 3 steps ahead of their expectations.

[@gandharvatalkies]

Ya this is wonderful information,. I helped me to think of my stories in a different way.. thanks for sharing this @Fox makeba

[@shramantayade3136]

Bro are you passionate about filmmaking

[@theocoles6827]

@@shramantayade3136it’s called a job

[@ConcealedWeaponry]

Can you elaborate on this technique?

[@gaugea]

@@ConcealedWeaponry you don’t want your audience bored-you dont want your audience even just satisfied- you want to give them what they want before they know they want it. Think of it like a rollercoaster, some rollercoasters start right away while others use a chain pull to the top of a hill. There’s times for both, but either way, an engaging introduction has the audience invested right away.

[@filmreviewer117]

Baby Driver, gives us so much about the main character, the tone of the film, and the level of action was about to witness without a line of dialogue.

[@StudioBinder]

It's one of the best opening sequences!

[@XtraCryspy]

My favorite opening

[@BriannaRoseCinematography]

I just watched that film recently! I have tinnitus and I wish they would have emphasized more on how detrimental it is instead of just a slight volume of ringing. Im sure they didn’t want to terrorize their audience by going too loud but I feel it would have conveyed to people much more on how bad it really is and would have brought more intensity to the character, and yes now every time I zip my roommate around somewhere real fast I say “They don’t call me Baby for nothing 😎” haha she is the one that insisted I watched it since I am a film student

[@ryansizemore5064]

Well considering it almost 100% ripped off the transporter I would hope they would have got 1 part of that movie right. Baby Driver fucking sucks.

[@robgamble1083]

Baby driver is one my favorites 🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@dwi.widodo]

The opening scene from Godfather is one of the best. It's so simple yet powerful.

[@StudioBinder]

The entire opening sequence is a feat

[@thereccher8746]

I believe that one would factor under Enter the Hero, because we're introduced into Don Corleone's world.

[@atomsmovie]

What makes it the best opening scene?

[@frostgamez9368]

I love how the man begins talking about how much he loves America and he “believes in America” and the good things it’s done for him but then does a 180 and instantly describes how that love is destroyed by that same America. Sums up the illusion and reality of America in a few seconds

[@stevenbenedict4424]

@@atomsmovie Because it takes its time in revealing so many things, and by taking its time gets YOU asking questions. Where are? Who is this guy on screen? Who is he talking to? And then in the opening speech delivered by Bonasera, four major themes are introduced: religion, capitalism, patriarchy and power. Oh, and they are all intersected by criminality. It sets the tone, pace and plot, plus the visual style.

[@kojisan1]

14:18 -> You guys killed with the "Hi, babe" from The Room playing with the music of 2001: A Space Oddisey. Bravo.

[@StudioBinder]

Combining the best scenes together 😂

[@shailu210]

A new film school has arrived. 🙌

[@StudioBinder]

Online, remote, and free :)

[@nextgenguy687]

Well its not new..if you'r seeing this now☺

[@linusmaximilian6568]

@@StudioBinder that's why we love you

[@charliebrown9489]

U geeked!?

[@swagcat428]

In we outta the hoods of America

[@laurencewhite3615]

I adore the opening of Marriage Story, it’s so beautiful

[@StudioBinder]

a very intimate opener for sure

[@Rajatsharma-mk5df]

Yes i agree with all my heart😊

[@shaktishivanand624]

Me too

[@Flare_kil]

Dark knights opening scene gives us the mind of Joker,how intelligent he is that's why it was the perfect opening

[@VonJay]

Loved the dark Knight, thought that that opening was really unrealistic

[@soorajunnithan8424]

Exactly 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥the dark Knight pure old in history of cinema

[@CrudeHen]

It also sets up the power he holds over the Mob’s money and how he got it. Instantly setting up the relationship with the Mob, Batman and the Joker

[@StudioBinder]

One of the best openers

[@brnsimao]

but it kind stinks, i mean, i love nolan, but if the joker already have the makeup on his face when reveals to the director of the bank, it means when they pickup him, (when he is waiting on the street with mask on his hands) the robbers who pick up him already saw he is the real boss

[@wiktoriajablonska638]

I love opening scene of 'Whiplash'. I watched this interview with the director, Danielle Chazelle and he said that he wanted to introduce not only main characters, but the subject of the movie which was the relationship between two in opening scene and I think he did it perfectly

[@empresssk]

Omg! Yes. The first scene did not let up!! Fantastic example

[@aamirrazak3467]

Agreed the opening scene set the stage for a truly incredible film

[@MichaelPokeMLP12C]

The opening of 'A Quiet Place' sets the tone and premise, establishes characters and raises the stakes extremely high through a harrowing circumstance that effects the character's motivations and the conflicts between them for the rest of the film. All within the first ten minutes, and all without a single spoken line of dialogue in almost complete silence. And this from a first-time director playing one of the lead characters, and on a shoe-string budget. PERFECTION.

[@byucatch22]

I agree - it's a pretty perfect opening scene that leaves you strung out from the tension and gutted from the event.

[@Cr3reeper]

i understand nothing of what you just said

[@BenSullinsOfficial]

Favorite opening is Inglorious Bastards

[@chefmagneto]

100%

[@chefmagneto]

@ANDY LUMEH © I bring you Gold. Hahahahahahahaha Hahahahahahahaha Hahahahahahahaha Hahahahahahahaha

[@ababycow]

Didn't expect to see you here

[@toveliu1677]

is it 'follow genre' type? or a flip genre one?

[@Plz8662]

I agree

[@ricimercury9490]

I still remember when I went deaf in an IMAX screening of TENET

[@VonJay]

Damn you saw it in iMax. Damn

[@leonmayne797]

RIP.

[@StudioBinder]

That is an amazing experience

[@nelisezpasce]

what did he mean by this

[@daniellatteo_thefilmmaker]

@@nelisezpasce Maybe he literally died of boredom.

[@atharvsingh6907]

Christopher Nolan's movies opening scenes are just out of this world!❤

[@StudioBinder]

The man has the best opening action scenes

[@willmorrell488]

I would say Zack Snyder has the better opening scenes and of course far better action. TDK is pretty damn good though.

[@atharvsingh6907]

@@willmorrell488 Zack Snyder's opening scenes are much artistic and filled with VFX. But when it comes to visually stunning and realistic, no one can match Nolan! Although, both are genius filmmakers...❤

[@jayfolk]

the first 10min of a film are important because no leaves the theatre in the first 10min, its the time to impress AND tell the audience what the film will be about through implication, theme, or foreshadowing. adding the opening scene to the plot can be extremely beneficial, and make for a more cohesive narrative experience. Don't start with action unless you can keep it up for the rest of the film - like Mad Max Fury Road, otherwise you rev up the audience but then you make them wait and wait for the next burst of energy. So plan ahead. Try to focus: character, conflict, world, then spectacle (action, screams, laughs, cries).

[@StudioBinder]

Mad Max is the best example on how to open with action and sustaining it

[@behelit1997]

Reservoir Dogs opening it's the best I've ever seen, the conversation is so realistic and the slo-mo sequence looks like Tarantino slowed down time just to film the sequence, everything is perfect down to the last minute details, the music, text and swearing just flows through itselves perfectly.

[@dudedude6892]

I think Tenet’s opening deserves a mention here. It’s a great sequence that establishes the main character, and a small mechanic of the world, while also being a key event in the story. All packed into one thrilling, enthralling action sequence.

[@adamcaruso4361]

it did

[@ExrtGreen]

great scene fr

[@omkargouraje6243]

Yes we all agree that 👍

[@anveshnidumolu3679]

sadly....its from Astro boy, n japanese cameos. even Inception ... well never mind. I still hope Nolan make good signature movie rather than taking it from others and renovating , scultpting...

[@ziachung4547]

It's quite remarkable how Across the spiderverse adheres to almost all of these techniques. 1. Enter Miguel with his antagonistic ideals of everything needing to abide to the norm which is the canon event no matter the cost. That serves as the primary obstacle directing affecting the course of the film's theme 2. We're introduced to our heroes two times for Gwen and Miles each, get an idea of who they are and 3. What their relationship is to each other. And a clear understanding of other dynamics such as Gwen/George, Gwen/Miguel and Jess, Miguel/Jess 4. The multiversal watches act as a pivotal device that completely flips the status quo limits of storytelling range 5. For setting the superhero tone=riveting action sequence is immediately supported by the general idea of what we can expect for the rest of the movie with a pinch of setting up a bookend which ofc later at the end pays off 6. Seemingly irreversible incident catapults the plot forward. We start with one of our main characters at rock bottom, utterly alienated from any sense of familiarity that was left. Deviation from preestablished ground rules as we know it Truly one of the most iconic, memorable, well executed movie openings of all time! All the more reason for me to geek out over it. Thanks for the vid!😊

[@UddinBat]

This is one of the best and most enlightening KZbin channels out here! Keep doing what you're doing! :D

[@StudioBinder]

Will keep doing what we do :)

[@Rapscallion2871]

The opening scene of Up was nice.

[@StudioBinder]

Definitely was 😢

[@yadmoreno3677]

Nice is an understatement. It's absolutely beautiful and easily my favorite Pixar scene ever.

[@SuperHeedictator]

You right everything in that opening scene was perfect..the whole life of two people who shared their life together in a couple of minutes. The story, their love and tragedy also the music! The music was so perfect to portrait those emotions from first love, tragedy of their marriage and then hope and then farewell...definetly one of the best opening scenes

[@rohannampalliwar4526]

The matrix has one of the best opening sequences. It builds up the tone of the movie, introduces us to the villains, instills a sense of wonder and fills the audience with excitement about what to expect from the movie.

[@ic9778]

Inception's opening scene tells us what Cobb wants to achieve, that's why it is one of my favorite opening scenes.

[@StudioBinder]

Nolan is the best!

[@msclrhd]

@@StudioBinder Inception is a great movie. I like how it sets up both possible endings (either he returned to his family, or is still trapped in limbo) and makes them equally credible. It would be interesting to have a breakdown of how it is all set up and paid off. Throughout the film we are told how a person can get trapped in limbo by clinging onto something. Throughout the different levels, we know Cobb sees both his wife *and* his children -- both are shown as different elements. Cobb resolves one (his wife) but not the other (his children). There's a line part way through the film between Cobb and Ariadne along the lines of given an idea the mind makes it real. There are whole conversations about reality, dreams, and implanting ideas (the titular "Inception"). The surface story is about implanting an idea in Fischer's mind, but there may be a subtext story about performing an Inception on Cobb. -- The reward Saito gives for the mission is to clear Cobb's debt so he can see his family. Saito even mentions it before Cobb enters limbo, so it is clear in Cobb's mind. The ambiguity of the fnal scene, where Cobb ignores everything he trained for (to always check your totem) to go out to see his children, and the lack of us -- the audience -- seeing the spinning top fall, make it a well crafted story that tells two different stories depending on how you view the elements of the film.

[@myOToole]

My favorite opening scenes are from Raiders of the Lost Ark and Rear Window. They tell us everything we need to know about the characters and the tone while also working as mini-movies themselves.

[@StudioBinder]

Two of the best!

[@Cristobels-Green-Boots]

‘Rear Window’ was great in that respect - one of Hitchcock’s best!

[@nidafawwazah5112]

One of the best opening scene so far is The Trial of The Chichago 7, I love the how the way every character from different backgrounds jumping into one dialogue to another shaping a whole new paragraph.

[@wosso3342]

Incendies gives you a mysterious character, the setting for most of the film, the perspective you'll watch from using western music that contrasts the Middle Eastern setting and just a beautifully shot and edited scene. Brilliant in every way, just like the rest of the film.

[@StudioBinder]

Great way to describe the scene!

[@chirantanmahanti2627]

And that radiohead music absolutely works

[@samf7642]

Raising Arizona (1987, Coen brothers) includes a 10 minute intro before opening titles that uses a narration to give us the back story and culminates in a great song. Absolutely loved it!

[@Grim_Grim.]

the fight club opening will always be my favourite. it immediately establishes who the narrator is as a character and when watching the film again you really start to understand what drove him as a character and why he was like how he was. it sets up fundamental aspects that will play into the movie as it unravels. the film also manages to entrap that same feeling you get from laying your eyes on the movie for the fist time and it recreates it all through the movie. and even watching it again you see more hidden details that make it feel as if your watching it for the first time again.

[@katireviews]

Yep really well said I'm a huge fight club fan yo The movie is just a masterpiece

[@df4196]

The best opening of all time is Boogie Night. It has the title card, sets the tone, introduces all the main characters, lands on the main character - all in one beautifully choreographed shot.

[@dooglio]

I love the opening of Falling Down. Traffic jam, focus on Micheal Douglas’ character, as he snaps and walks away from his car. Visually it informs us of his character without any dialogue.

[@solezeta1314]

Another great example could've been the opening chase scene in the 2011 film Drive by Nicholas Winding Refn. That scene has it all: the ticking clocks (with the game and police being heard in the radio), the genius cinematography, the stuble soundtrack, Gosling's silent gaze, the choppers lights being from upwards, etc. It's one of my favorite opening scenes ever.

[@augure2589]

I wanted to say Drive too! I’m 1 day late. The great opening credit is important too.

[@beheadedbat4925]

The lighthouse was one of my favorite openings the first 5 to 7 minutes is just a heavy score and the sound of the lighthouse siren as the two characters travel towards the island without a word being said the whole time it makes sure the viewer is already feeling uneasy and filled with questions about whats going on and who the characters are before the characters even begin their dialogue

[@adriennethomasvoicechannel1353]

Catch 22.....take off scene....mesmeric and threatening at the same time....and it introduces Yossarian brilliantly!

[@doctorstrange1485]

One of my favourite opening scenes were the introductions in RRR before the actual title card. I liked how they showed everything you needed to know about the characters and some of the stuff they do foreshadows what’s gonna happen in the future.

[@samuelbarber6177]

The opening sequences of Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon A Time In The West” and “Once Upon A Time In America” are so eery. Given that Leone’s previous films, the Dollars Trilogy, all opened with big, energetic, James Bond-esque title sequences, the fact that both of this films were so stripped down (the latter’s opening credits were literally just white on black with no music until about a minute in), they immediately set a different town for what Leone was about to do. I also love how Martin Scorsese opens his films, particularly GoodFellas, Casino, The Departed and The Irishman. The great music, the narration, the title sequence everything. The best film openings are always the ones which tell you exactly what kind of film you’re in for and Directors like Leone, Scorsese but also, Christopher Nolan, Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino and Tim Burton know how to do that so well. Some of my other favourites include The Dark Knight L.A. Confidential The Shining John Carpenter’s Halloween Halloween II Alfred Hitchcock’s North By Northwest Mean Streets Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Jaws Inglorious Basterds Mario Puzo’s The Godfather Mario Puzo’s The Godfather Part II Pulp Fiction Reservoir Dogs Batman Dunkirk No Time To Die Raiders of the Lost Ark Casino Royale The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

[@Dave-dk4hk]

The Good, The Bad and the Ugly, when Tuco jumps through the window with a giant f-ing turkey leg in his hand lol. Absolutely the best! haha!

[@samuelbarber6177]

@@Dave-dk4hk I love that scene as well, but isn’t the opening the scene with Angel Eyes? There might be different versions

[@amirtaufiq797]

My fav opening scene ever is pulp fiction. Quentin just hooked audience with dialogue.

[@VonJay]

I was just thinking that. And the non linear structure, someone gets saved at the end of each scene(besides the prologue), in every sense of the word.

[@CookingwithYarda]

I love that !! One of my favourite movie !!

[@amirtaufiq797]

@@CookingwithYarda yes sir!!!

[@StudioBinder]

That's why we love him!

[@Joker-sy4xr]

I completely agree. Pulp Fiction has never been my favourite film but there’s no denying the quality of the dialogue or the genius of the non linear structure.

[@tedfilmsafrica]

Am a Kenyan 22, cinematographer. Without this channel, my passion in filmaking would have just been a wasted career. Thank you Studio Binder. Planning for a short film next year April. I will share it with you😍

[@Dave-dk4hk]

Awesome! Do you have a movie with fav opening scene? you posted 1 year ago - is your short film done?!? Would love to see it!

[@basthebadarse]

The guys at StudioBinder are by miles the greatest. Basically all the openings I love analyzed from the right eyes

[@mollywoodshots6503]

Nolan, Fincher & Kubrick have some of the best openings IMO.

[@StudioBinder]

Agreed!

[@NubbyNubbster]

Fincher's The Social Network and Welles' Touch of Evil are a couple of my favorite opening scenes of all time. At times I'll re-watch them to help me with projects I do. Not with just screenplays but short stories and even poetry too.

[@tenzinlekden5617]

This is way better than my film class, and I learned so much of it. Thanks

[@joshua43214]

The Secrete Life of Walter Mitty is by far one of the best opening scenes ever filmed. Perfectly combining the credits with everything you need to know about the main character, and beautifully shot. If you have not seen this gem it is a must see. If you have been avoiding it because it looks like a mid-life crisis film, it is not.

[@hrichards9562]

I absolutely love this movie too. I think it doesn't get the credit it deserves.

[@juliusperfido990]

We studied the opening in one of my classes, and were surprised as to how amazing it was

[@ziomalZparafii]

Amazing movie but I really like how they embedded credits as a real life signs on the buildings, streets etc.

[@pauljakeman]

Ive never seen it, i just thought it would be some cash in remake.

[@fallzero7304]

​@@pauljakeman Such an amazing and beautifully shot movie with one of the most gorgeous soundtracks.

[@bena5025]

i absolutely love the opening dream sequence in "the babadook". it's so fascinating to look at because only after a few seconds you realize what traumatic situation is shown, it sets the tone of the film perfectly and is just a visual pleasure!!

[@StudioBinder]

Love that movie ❤

[@aadityapawar2271]

Really surprised that none of tarantino movies were mentioned Since the opening scenes of Inglourious basterds as well as kill bill vol 1 are amazing And obviously, the opening scene of pulp fiction🙌🏻 That’s the most awesome opening scene of all time, imo!

[@alexispapageorgiou72]

They showed Inglorious basterds as an example. JUst didn't comment on it.

[@aadityapawar2271]

@@alexispapageorgiou72 yeah but i still believe at least one of tarantino’s opening scenes should be on the list, not as a thumbnail/example but as a part of the list

[@some1namedno1]

​@@aadityapawar2271 Tarantino's building of tension has been talked about a lot though. There isn't always a whole lot more to say about them. Also, it IS in the blog.

[@StudioBinder]

We rank the best openers in our companion article, and trust us he makes the list ❤ www.studiobinder.com/blog/best-opening-scenes-in-movies/

[@joeymorrissey5916]

they also have their own video on the opening scene of inglorious basterds i believe

[@connie1wilson]

‘Contact’ had to be the best ever opening scene. Hearing the music go from ”today”, back to static! Sent chills up my spine, because beyond that, there is just the sounds of energy jostling around!

[@JustPrnvvv]

Deadpool's opening scene was literally so cool & awesome.

[@StudioBinder]

Its a great opener!

[@lumisferica]

I agree!

[@LeiDavidChen]

Deadpool's opening scene was the concept trailer leaked onto KZbin that got fans so excited it convinced Fox to make the movie.

[@floorsweepings666]

this guy's smart, he wore the brown pants

[@Plz8662]

Slop millennial humor opening lmao

[@Lowbow0]

i like movies who start with the end scene and end with the start. this twists my brain into the right angle

[@JasonStorey]

Favourite Opening Scene? "Choose Life. Choose a job. Choose a career...."

[@StudioBinder]

😂💯

[@AnimeBadBoi]

Tenet for sure !!!! the build up, the setting, the action - everything was spectacular

[@dragofelid]

I think Scream has possibly my favourite horror movie opening. it starts of casually, sets the tone as a wrong number call with a few jokes and talk of horror movies, horror movie references and tropes before plunging into the horror of home invasion and slasher quite well! especially for a horror slasher with comedic elements whilst talking about those specific types of movies as a whole

[@Cristobels-Green-Boots]

The ‘prologues’ to ‘Volver’ & ‘The Talented Mr Ripley’ encapsulate the entire stories in the first few minutes, & nobody walks out during the first 10 minutes....🙏🏻

[@Pataganja]

You guys make some of my favorite stuff on this website my girlfriend isn’t even into filmmaking and she loves watching these with me.

[@StudioBinder]

haha all are welcome!

[@Jimmy1982Playlists]

The line reading of Spacey's in those last seconds of "the lineup scene" in _The Usual Suspects..._ Amazing. Gives me chills every time!

[@joeynathan6073]

Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse - great way to establish the tone of the film while also showing off its aesthetics!

[@wandefter]

The opening scene from Inglorious Basterds is one of my favs of all time

[@Sameer93.]

Inglorious basterds opening scene is 🔥🔥🔥

[@StudioBinder]

One of the best openers of all time

[@eequalsemceeprayer]

Midnight Special has a phenomenal intro with intrigue and action that sets the stage beautifully, I think. The culmination of them hearing the call on the police scanner that they're being targeted, then killing the lights on their old car and putting on night vision goggles to drive in the dark; smashcut to the title. Everything about it works perfectly to me.

[@AlicePearlJam]

I love when a movie just starts and brings us into the story with no credits or title card. Although Drive had credits before and after the opening scene, I still think it’s a great work of art especially when the credits are playing accompanied by Kavinsky as Gosling is cruising L.A. at night in his ‘73 Malibu. The kicker is when he walks past Carey Mulligan and neither one acknowledges the other.

[@TomjDavies13]

No mention of the opening to Raiders of the Lost Ark? It is iconic, it is such a good beginning the rest of the film can't compete

[@StudioBinder]

No disagreements there! Raiders is fantastic

[@chrisjfox8715]

The opening scene to Unbreakable, as well as Perfume: The Story of a Murderer are quite powerful. Very well done

[@BornToBeUai]

Nobody is gonna talk about Casino Royale? Being a 90s kid, I grew up with Brosnan's Bond and I could never understand why adults actually liked a poshy smirky fancy Bond. And I went to the cinema with those expectations. Daniel Craig and Martin Campbell threw them off the window repeatedly for minutes on end. When I thought I had enough, the once cheesy opening sequences gave place to my favorite credit sequence to date. Don't forget Chris Cornell blowing his pipes louder than those pipes from the orchestra. Flawless.

[@StudioBinder]

We love Casino Royale :D

[@limenmultimedia]

This video is a treasure trove of insights into the art of the opening scene! Starting a movie is no easy task, but the way you've broken down the different methods is truly fascinating. Introducing a hero or villain right from the beginning sets the tone and raises the stakes for the rest of the film, as we've seen in The Dark Knight and Skyfall. On the other hand, Noah Baumbach's approach in Marriage Story, with its extended montage, provides a deep dive into the characters and their relationship, laying the groundwork for the emotional journey ahead. Uncut Gems takes a unique approach by skipping character introductions and diving straight into the plot device that propels the story forward. It's a bold move that immediately grabs our attention. And then we have La La Land and Get Out, both genre films that cleverly play with genre conventions in their opening scenes. La La Land bursts onto the screen with a vibrant and fantastical musical number, while Get Out blends comedy and horror to defy our expectations. The opening scene truly sets the stage for what's to come, whether it's through character introductions, establishing dynamics, or embracing or subverting genre rules. It's a crucial decision that can greatly impact our experience as viewers. I'm curious, what are some of your favorite opening scenes in movies and why?

[@TheJonathanNewton]

The Seventh Seal - an opening I more or less know by heart. Tells you everything about the movie.

[@mramsudarsan9637]

There will be blood beginning is by far the perfect opening. Great exposition. Also It defines the character as well

[@StudioBinder]

Possibly PTA's best!

[@Dave-dk4hk]

Escaflowne movie opening scene. Music by Yoko Kanno, top notch animation, dialogue that says more with less and unforgettable action sequence all rolled into fist 10 minutes. Absolutely amazing demonstration of In Medias Res at it's finest.

[@Guha10]

Spielberg's way of including his audience to the D- Day battle in the movie Saving Private Ryan has been an iconic one for me. After the battle, we as audience see a beach in horror that has turned red in colour due to deaths and destruction. That is how I as a film viewer resonated the depth of the epic dilogue when the protagonist says - "quite a view".

[@Dave-dk4hk]

Fo Sho - Totally agree. Amazing opening scene on so many levels and one I will never forget. SPR was one of 3 movies I have seen that was so realistic and scary that it gave me nightmares. That's not a criticism but a genuine compliment to the realism and master film making of Spielberg.

[@peterfrank3365]

My favorite blockbuster opening from recent memory belongs to 'Guardians of the Galaxy'. From the flashback prologue, all the way to Quill dancing. It sets up the tone, the character and the story, just right. Even the use of the Marvel Studio logo clicks.

[@dawngw26]

Thank you for an excellent film school lesson! My vote for best opening scene is for Pixar's "Up".

[@moygonzalez239]

the opening of End of Watch is one of my favorites, it prepares you for the entire film

[@StudioBinder]

As all great openings should!

[@davidplumm]

A New Hope has got to be one of the best and most iconic openers ever!

[@fancy_cupcate]

I love the opening scene for the Pirates of the Caribbean (At World’s End) when the boy started singing Hoist the Colours. The cinematography, the music, the song lyrics, the coin 🪙 flipping while showing the title of the movie. It’s just perfection. 🏴‍☠️

[@kokijavier]

Best opening for me: Lord of the Rings, The fellowship of the ring. Perfection

[@mikeman1866]

Dances with Wolves. Great opening scene. Introduces the hero and makes you want to know more about him. Plenty of excitement to go with it.

[@i_so_late]

Incendies is one of my favorite opening scenes, it does so much without you even knowing

[@StudioBinder]

The best kind of openers 💯

[@yugmittal445]

I loved Star Wars’s opening as well. Love how they actually highlighted the problem and Darth Vader right at the start, and then at the end of that opening scene was a little bit of the hope that was going

[@kjeet007]

Well Openings are great part to discuss on..... I Love the opening of "Call me by your Name" & Nolan Sir's Movies & calls it a " Chaotic Start " Tenet(I can see studiobinder also have loved it), Dark Knight Rises implies it better, it bring us on the edge of Chair ❤️

[@StudioBinder]

We do love it :)

[@Pallialbertti]

Daniel Craig's bond films (especially Skyfall and No Time To Die) have my favourite opening scenes along with captain america the winter soldier, Falcon and the wintersoldier (the firs episode), Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and maybe some other ones that I can't remember at the moment

[@darnielarnold9298]

Bond opening scenes are a must see for lovers of cinema, especially the Daniel Craig ones. 📽♥️

[@lessthanbrilliant3672]

It’s difficult to think of an “Enter the Hero” intro that measures up to Raiders of the Lost Ark, but Blade is also excellent. And I think Seven Samurai has the greatest “Plot Catalyst” intro, but I also have a fondness for Sense and Sensibility. I need to stop now before I start writing a comprehensive list.

[@lyndakorner2383]

"Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" opens on the Wicked Queen asking the Slave in the Magic Mirror who is the fairest in the land, and his reply introduces Snow White who, dressed in rags, uses the well in the courtyard to clean but also to wish. She sings into the well her wish that the one she loves finds her, and, at one point, she even harmonizes with the well's echo as a duet. And, the song ends with the Prince answering the wish and replacing the echo. He, then, sings his song to woo her, and the Queen watches from her window before being shown, once the song ends, instructing the Huntsman to murder the Princess. Walt Disney was masterful at crafting these transitions that seem so effortless.

[@jeelsyed]

How can we forget Terminator 2: Judgement Day opening sequence, with the machines war, and that Arnie's introduction with a killer line "Give me your boots & jacket"!

[@TheJonathanNewton]

A Perfect World - perfect bookends, giving the whole plot quite a twist!

[@theloniousfarou4695]

The opening scene of Hereditary was... Blowing my mind!

[@andreweckford6319]

The opening sequence for Serenity was very well layered - introduce all 9 ensemble characters, motivations, villain; setting. Done by sliding through 4 perspective changes. And it had to work both for people familiar with the series as well as a standalone for movie-only.

[@Unaliq]

Honestly, Terminator 1 and 2 openings still leave me in awe of humanity's war against the machines. Especially the second movie... The use of practical effects and small-scale models to the use of the original soundtrack. It aged like fine wine because it's use of practical effects.

[@Arominit]

The mix of fast cuts and slow motion from *Cidade de Deus* when they're chasing the chicken, with the Brazilian music, great opening scene, great movie!

[@TobyKate]

"Ferriss Bueller's Day Off" has one of my favourite opening scenes

[@StudioBinder]

Ferris Bueller is also in our best movies that broke the fourth wall list! www.studiobinder.com/blog/movies-that-break-the-fourth-wall/

[@TobyKate]

@@StudioBinder good choice ;)

[@alicialexists]

This will help me so much with my novel. Thank you, Studio Binder. Also, the Loki series has a great opening scene. Loki quickly goes from being the most powerful person in the area to being the one pushed around by humans who have no respect for his glorious purpose or his, I quote, "fine Asgardian leather". It sets up the relationship between Loki and the group that pushes him around, and it introduces multiple major questions: "Who are the TVA?", "What is the Sacred Timeline?", and "Why was Loki in the desert?". We immediately learn that this series has a very strong mystery element.

[@RaoulEnoiu]

Dark Knight was definitely an amazing opener. I loved Blade Runner 2049 too - the whole sequence with K and the gorgeous visuals at the beginning.

[@StudioBinder]

Love both openers!

[@jonathanmelia]

That opening was actually how the original 1982 film was going to be in one of the early drafts, right down to the close-up of the simmering stewpot!

[@edwinrumbledove]

Pixar are masters of the opening scene! Toy Story 2 & 3, Up, Inside Out, The Incredibles. Just brilliant.

[@DelightLovesMovies]

I've watched the opening scenes from Inglorious Basterds and 2001 so many times..haha They are like films unto themselves.

[@StudioBinder]

Definitely agree, they would make award winning short films

[@DelightLovesMovies]

@@StudioBinder That's true too. haha

[@MaineMountainMedia]

Opening Scene of Layer Cake (2004) is one of my absolute favorites of all time. Seen that film 20+ times and it still captivates and draws me in.

[@Premkumar-nv5bv]

I always feel 2001: A Space Odessey opening scene is the best! ❤️

[@StudioBinder]

You can definitely argue for it :)

[@mukeshh178]

Opening scene of saving the provate ryan is amazing

[@CookingwithYarda]

I always love to learn new film shooting skills. When I watched Woody Allen's movie Cafe Society the lightning in that film was just remarkable !!!

[@StudioBinder]

Have fun filming!

[@Robekblom]

First that comes to mind is Baby Driver. That opening blew my head off . Also the opening of The Shining. That song still gives me goose bumps

[@DafterThings]

I don't think Lord of War has been mentioned yet? I just loved the delivery.

[@StudioBinder]

That has a great opening scene 👍

[@arjendevoz]

The opening of black widow is the best ever. The music, the small story before the movie its amazing

[@johngrayatkinson1214]

One of the best opening scenes ,IMO, is the beginning of Brian DePalmas The Untouchables , with the little girl and the briefcase. It perfectly sets the tone for the film , because, it punches you right in the gut, and sets the stage for the lines between the protagonists/antagonists doing what's wrong for the "greater good." (As well as good ol' fashion revenge)

[@Dave-dk4hk]

Hey Mister - you forgot your briefcase!

[@farus_channel]

StudioBinder is the gate to get the best recommended movies!

[@rachelryan4515]

Trainspotting’s opening scene is my fav of all time

[@StudioBinder]

It's a great scene!

[@rachelryan4515]

@@StudioBinder and the song that plays too is a banger!

[@vito3608]

oh my GOD the narrators voice is excellent. I watched the whole thing.