Opening Title Analysis

SE7EN
The opening titles of Se7en are very unique in terms of being spontaneous and random. For example, the way the writing of the credits flicker throughout the scene could imply that throughout the movie there will be distortion and distress as the flickering has no real sequence and seems to happen with no pattern. Also the font of the writing is white which could signify multiple things like 'hope' an the blackness surrounding signifies the overwhelming evil. Which could be why the writing is somewhat blurred into the background, suggesting the good is overwhelmed by the evil.

The lighting in the opening titles are low-key and there only seems to be a primary light focusing on what the person is doing. This could imply that all the attention is around the doings of the person. Also, this dim lighting can also suggest that the setting is a place with no background lighting (windows,doors) which means that the person in the scene may be in somewhere such as a basement or attic where they may not necessarily want to be found or discovered. Showing a deal of secrecy and mystery to come.

 

The props also used in the scene seem to be old fashioned and unique. Such as the film reel and weapon-like instruments such as the razor blade. These props are meant to show an indication to the viewer that violence and gore may be included in the movie, giving a little insight into what the movie might have to offer, gripping the audience like any title screen should. The fact that as humans we like to be disturbed and distressed via film is used to the scene's advantage as the different sharp objects used to cut human skin is disturbingly arousing to the viewer. 

The soundtrack plays throughout the title screen and starts of slowly and picks up a speed and become more tense which could also be said about the actual movie itself. The track begins with the sound of clunking machinery and then is followed by a loud scream-like sound. The music seems to pick up pace when the 'victim's' eyes are crossed out which could suggest that the story will pick up some tension when the first victim is killed. Lastly, the track ends with the words 'You bring me closer to God' which could possible signify religious motives of the killer.

 

Joe G