Research: Conventions of Harry Potter Opening Sequence

Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone opening sequence shows the usual conventions of a children's film opening sequence. The theme tune is introduced before the images are shown on the screen and the location is established immediately as the name of the road is pictured. The first character seen is Dumbledore who is a main character and other characters who become important throughout are seen. When Dumbledore uses his magic this gives us an idea of the genre of the film immediately (Fantasy) and also helps us to establish some of the storyline possibly. More of the narrative is introduced when Harry Potter arrives and is left on the doorstep of the house. Dumbledore discusses what has happened which helps us put together the storyline. After this the Title sequence begins which is in a fantasy/magical theme of font and then the actual narrative begins when Harry is much older.

The micro elements contribute well to the opening sequence and they compliment the usual conventions of the Children's Film. Sound plays an important part as the non-diegtic sound used is the theme tune and  the magical sense created gives a idea of the genre and possibly the narrative. Mise-en-scene is greatly needed as the props, location and costume need to be realistic and appropriate to the genre and narrative. All characters are dressed well and props such as the magic lighter and flying motorbike again show the genre of the film. The lighting is dark and sets the scenes mood and atmosphere. Because it is dark it gives a serious feel and possibly something disastrous has happened and the audience will want to find this out. Special Effects are needed in this to show the magic realistically and to also show the title sequence. The magic once again helps portray the genre and also helps the audience know that the characters that have just been introduced are magical. If this was done unrealistically the audience may feel the film is not that serious or the characters are not that believable.

The camera shots are also important as they help with the establishment of the scene and location. The establishing shots help with this. Close ups help us learn and recognise the main characters and medium shots help us establish their props and costume. The camera shots have to be right to help get across each convention well. With poor camera shots the audience will struggle to understand what is going in the scene.

This research has helped us realise that the micro elements of the film help contribute greatly to the getting across of the narrative, characters, location and genre of the film. Without these micro elements the conventions would be pointless.