Generic Codes and Conventions

The opening sequence to most horror movies follows one character in particular who is killed by the antagonist. The ominous soundtrack usually works as a warning to the audinece that the killer is nearby, like in Halloween (1978 Carpenter), the soundtrack is used continuously throughout the film to create suspense when Michael (the killer) is nearby. The characters in the opening sequence are given a brief introduction before they killed or at least put in danger. These typical characterizations help the audience relate to the characters and will then pity them when they are killed. In the opening sequence of Scream (1996 Wes Craven), the character engages in dialogue with the killer before they meet. This allows the audience to observe her character and pity her as she is tricked and tormented by the killer. The most typical murder weapon used in horror films is a knife and the killer wears a mask to hide his idenity.

Conventions Of Slasher Films

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Market Research

I created a poll on the popular social networking website Facebook, and received participation from 10 users aged between 18-23. 80% of which agreed that the opening sequence of a horror film should introduce a character who are very soon after murdered on-screen.

The Thing (1982 John Carpenter) - Titles

White text on a black background, with fade transitions both in and out.
The titles are centered and there is an ominous, bassy, soundtrack. The film's title is at the end of the title sequence and is significantly larger than the previous titles and in a unique evil-looking font.

Role and Responsibilities

Ben Aldis (Cinematographer & Director): Story board

Lee Squires (Producer & Editor): Script

Jaws - opening sequence

The genre is horror, as it intends to frighten the audience. The soundtrack is typical of a horror movie: ominous, string instruments; effectively creates suspense and tension.
The characters are a group of teenagers, seen in a dolly shot shown to be happy, laughing, some couples can be observed within the group.
The enigma is the unexpected shark infestation. This concept was original in cinema. The shark itself is not in the miseenscene, but a point of view (under water) shot tells us it's there.
The unique selling point of this movie is that the antagonist is a shark.
The setting is 'Amity Island', the audience might feel as if the characters' are under siege.