Film Opening Scene Analysis (Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone)

 Film Opening Scene Analysis

  Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (opening scene): 

Elements: 

1. Camera Work/Editing

This is an establishing shot, of an owl sitting on the sign which shows the setting of the scene. A mysterious atmosphere is created in this scene due to the owl which connotes a supernatural effect, therefore establishing the genre of this film (supernatural).     

This is a medium shot of an old man, which introduces him as an important character in the film. As a part of mise-en-scène, his costume (pointed hat, etc.) implies the genre/sub-genres, such as fantasy.  

Close-up shot, in which special effects editing is used to show that this device is extracting light from lamp posts. This further adds to the fantasy aspect in the film. 

Two-shot, showing the characters walking closely together, highlighting the relationship between the two.

Close up shot, to showcase the facial expressions of the man. He seems to pity the baby in his hands, showing his affection/care towards it, which develops a relationship (connection) between the two. 

This is another close up shot (extreme), which provides focus to the scar on the baby's forehead making it important to the narrative. 

This is an example of graphic match editing, in the close up shot of the child. This also establishes the scar as a motif in this film. 

2. Sound 

The scene starts with music in the background, as the camera pans. The music is non-diegetic sound, and creates a suspenseful effect. It fades into more fast paced music, as the old man appears, and this continues onto the next scene, creating a sound bridge. The opening of this film also includes diegetic sound such as footsteps, the meowing of a cat, and the sound of a motorcycle. There is music in the scene where the cat's shadow transforms into that of a woman. This music gets louder and louder, until the woman is shown, creating a more dramatical effect. The same musical notes from the first scene are played as Hagrid appears, and also in the scene where the close up of the baby boy's forehead (scar) is taken. This conveys a connection between the two characters, and the setting.

3. Mise-en-scène

The costumes of the old man and woman in the scenes include a pointy hat and robes, which implies that they are wizards. Whereas Hagrid is not wearing anything similar, differentiating him from them. The lighting in the opening scene is mainly in the form of few bright street lights. The colour palette of the scenes is dark and more cool toned, including blue tints. This further emphasises the mystery and fantasy of the film.