Quantum of Solace Introduction: Why It Is Effective?

The introduction of the famous James Bond film, Quantum of Solace, is extremely gripping and intense, yet informative as to what category of film this is. Therefore, intriguing the audience to continue watching the film further attaching them to the storyline.

Throughout the introduction of the opening, the scenery is illustrated helping to locate the action within the first part of the film. It is as if the camera is 'flying' across the water by the addition of the non-diegetic sound effects helping to calm the audience before an unexpected bombardment of sound is introduced. The use of dark lighting somewhat informs the audience of the mysteriousness of the situation, as we begin to expect something is about to happen due to the fact we traditionally associate dark lighting with danger. The non-diegetic music begins subtly and perhaps unnoticeable for the viewer, this is until the music builds up to a crescendo, somewhat replicating the tension being built within the audience. Notwithstanding, this tension is released yet consequently built when the sound effects are accentuated to continuously keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Paradoxically, when the music reaches the end of the crescendo (where the action plus enhanced sound effects are introduced), the music is cut, allowing the audience to pay closer attention to the action taking place. Extreme close ups have been used to illustrate the detail of the content which are divided and separated from one another with the dark lighting flashes. A shot used a numerous number of times is one which causes the audience to feel as if they are situated within the vehicle of the protagonist in our favour. Moreover, this results in the viewer feeling as if they are involved in the action causing more attention to be paid to the film. Eventually, the characters exit the tunnel within which the majority of conflict has occurred. Here, non-diegetic music is added to reinforce the conflict and change of scenery. The majority of sound effects added are the repetitive use of gun shots and car engines to further convey the props and conflict within the scene. Tracking and panning of the cars are used to assist the audience in following the action and to keep up with the violence therefore alluring the viewers to continue watching. Nearer towards the end of the scene, the music again crescendos and speeds up as the tension is successively built as danger for the protagonist (James Bond) is increased. When the final enemy is destroyed the music immediately cuts and the speed of the shot is decreased, helping the audience to identify every detail moreover allowing them to calm themselves post the upbeat conflict. Yet again, when Bond enters another scene, the non-diegetic music changes to another track beginning calm whilst the camera tracks the protagonist's vehicle. Towards the end of the clip, the dark lighting is again introduced resulting in mystery and fear of the unknown being developed by the viewers. Throughout the opening, the consecutive use of different shots with an increased use of wipes, helps to further enhance the fast, upbeat movement moreover leading to the audience being gripped within the first 5 minutes of the film. This intrigues the audience to continue watching the film, engrossing them from start to finish.