The lighting in this title sequence is very cleverly used. We are able to see shadows from buildings, towering over people and other buildings. But, we are also are able to see natural light. These two different shades contrast each other and could confuse the viewer when they see them.
The shadows in the opening sequence symbolise and darkness of the idea of the film. We see shadows quite regularly covering buildings and people in the city. I think this shows the power that is held over the victims in the film by the perpetrators. It gives us the impression that they are being smothered and not by someone who is good, someone who is dark and evil. The shadows show us that not only the perpetrators of the film are dark, but also the idea of the film. A happy film wouldn't have dark shadows surrounding the set so we know it must be a thriller or dark film. The screenshot below shows people going through their normal daily routine, but they are covered by a dark shadow. This emphasises the fact that the victims in the film were just going along with their lives like normal when this frightening even happened to them.
The natural lighting in the opening sequence contrasts with the ideas that the shadows portray. We are able to tell from the natural light that it is the morning. We associate early morning with positive ideas (New day, new start, birds singing), which is why the natural light contrasts so much with the shadows because it gives us a positive impression, unlike the shadows. It also gives the viewer a different impression as to what the film is going to be about. Most things in the opening sequence tell us that the film is going to be dark and thrilling, but the natural light contrasts this and throws the viewer off what they think it will be about.
There are some great ideas in here: you have clearly described the technique and examples as well as explained how it sets up a visual contrast that is symbolic for the film as a whole. Can you push your response up to Excellence by considering the lighting and contrast throughout the film as a whole and some examples from other films in the genre maybe? Or how this theme of light and darkness more specifically is continued throughout the film? Look at my blog for suggestions on how to reach Excellence and also complete one more entry on a chosen technique. Looking great, but aim for Excellence.
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