The Bourne Identity - Opening Analysis

In the opening scene of the film Bourne Identity the films starts with the non-diegetic sound of wind and rain suggesting danger for the protagonist. This is use of danger is used throughout the thriller genre to ensure that there is tension in the film to keep the audience gripped.  However in most cases the protagonist is given the skills to deal with the danger given to him/her in the film but in this case the character is left helpless, which defies the conventions and is what I would want to include in my opening because it upsets the equilibrium without any major changes to the narrative.

Then opening then straight cuts to wide low angle shot of Jason Bourne in the sea. This shot is interesting because low angles are usually used to present the character as powerful however in opening Jason Bourne is helpless to the ocean and overwhelmed by its power because of how wide the shot is this means he requires help this could connote that although he may seem helpless he is infact always in control, which is an idea associated with secret agents. The shot further connotes that he is infact an agent because of the mystery behind him. This is because the shot doesn't show his face presenting this idea of mystery which is another convention in thrillers that can be used to create tension.

When the shot pans down into the boat the lighting is much brighter connoting safety for the protagonist. The characters in the boat are filmed with the camera shaking from above which could be a sign that they are at mercie to the sea and their lives are unstable also backed up by the fact they are playing cards which is a sign for luck. These characters contrast to Jason Bourne which means the audience has no idea what will happen if they come into contact. It is this uncertainty that adds to the tension.

When these characters first come into contact a shot reverse shot is used along with eyeline match between the protagonist in the water and the fishermen. This is used to show that the protagonist is about to receive help which is further shown in the fishermens clothes which contrast to the dark windy storm and the black clothing of Jason Bourne, which may connote hope. In addition to this the non-diegetic sound increases in volume to tell the audience that something is going to happen. The music then reaches it's peak and the next shot focuses on Jason Bourne showing his military clothing before cutting to the titles.

The titles used came in muddled up before organising themselves which connotes military or C.I.A training further supporting the fact that the protagonist is an agent. The title being mixed up could further show that the plot or the characters fate is yet unknown creating more mystery. Lastly the font is military showing that the film is based around this concept.

Credit to George