Analysing The Opening Sequence Of Memento

We watched the opening sequence of the film 'Memento' a few times, and then discussed in the class the conventions of the film in accordance to a typical thriller and what we liked about it.

It was filmed in 2002 and was directed by Christopher Nolan. It starred Guy Pearce.

This film began with a black background, with white text in front of it. Then it changed to a close up on a polaroid of a dead man. Every minute or so, the polaroid was shaken, and every every time it was the polaroid got fainter and fainter. This gives the impression of time going backwards, and also tells us something about the character. He obviously has quite a hard personality as he is able to shoot this man in the head, and then stand there long enough to be able to take the polaroid and develop it before he leaves the room.

Also when the gun has just been fired, an over-the-shoulder shot is used looking from behind the killer. This gives an impressions of power and is quite an intimidating angle, making the killer look powerful. However, when the killer is sitting in a hotel room, a low angle is used, which could show that the killer is actually quite a vulnerable character.

During the first scene, showing what has happened, a lot of very close camera shots are used, which gives a feeling of disorientation, and you can't see properly where the action is. The order of event is quite unconventional, which gives a heightened feeling of disorientation.

This opening is very effective, as it leaves the audience wondering what actually happened between the killer and the vitcim, why he was killed and the events which led up to the murder.