Analysis of a title sequence - Se7en

In the beginning of the title sequence, we see many props that are used which indicate to the audience that the film is about two detectives, the pen, crime scene photos all contribute to this idea. These props seem to be being put into a formation which also backs this up as detective’s piece case information together to build up a bigger picture – which happens to the audience as they are given a general idea as to what the film is about.

Most of the items in the shots are very close up. This creates suspense amongst the audience as they are unsure as to who is behind what is happening and what their face is: it could be the killer. The close up of the objects can also be to ensure the audience recognize those props for later on in the film as they could hold some significance throughout the plot.

 

The whole title sequence is light very dark which connotes danger to the audience as well as suspicion as it is obvious the shots are done inside – showing the person behind it does not want to be known. Despite most of the title sequence just being in black and white, there is also a couple shots of developing photos that are red. Red usually implies a threat or a hazard which is possibly very important towards the plot of the film.

In regards to editing, it is done at a relatively slow pace. As well as in a montage format. This creates a level of confusion as there is no definitive start point or end point which helps the portrayal of the detective theme – It creates the idea that they are creating a file, or investigation.

The titles themselves are in a handwriting font. This creates an eerie theme as the audience can question who the handwriting actually belongs to – the killer, detective or victim.