'Zombieland' Opening Sequence Analysis

Zombieland (2009) Dir. Ruben Fleischer (Columbia Pictures)

Firstly, we see the institutional information; this is very conventional as it promotes these companies. I particularly like use of humour used in the opening sequence to ‘Zombieland’. The camera is rarely still in this opening sequence, this gives the audience the sense that the film is going to be fast paced but also can help convey the genre. We can tell this film is going to be an action film but also involving some comical elements. There are mostly long shots and medium shots which can establish the setting and does not introduce individual characters. This also adds background information, which allows the audience to understand the narrative better. The music is pacy and this also links to the use of fast cuts to create a fast paced and action filled opening sequence.  There is also a voiceover, which is non-diegetic and helps the audience to have a better understanding but also we feel as though we are seeing it from the characters point of view. The stars are also showcased to present the mainstream actors. The credits and text are incorporated into the sequence, which makes them more interesting and means the audience actually read them.  The topics and storyline are also introduced in this sequence as we know that there are zombies and from the voiceover we know that the main character is still a human. There is also the use of enigma as there are no hints or links to the narrative or characters. I thought that this opening sequence was very successful as it had enough enigma to engage the audience and make them want to watch the rest of the film.