Gangs Of New York Opening

Camera

The first camera shot we see is a close up. The close up is used to show the expression on the characters face, we get a sense of power from this character as his face is quite emotionless and cold even when he cuts himself shaving.

We then see the camera follow the characters hand holding his razor to give it to a younger character. The close up camera shot of this lets the audience establish its significant as it represents a father passing down a very manly item to his son. It also lets the audience think about why the father has no use of this item anymore, and possibly foreseeing something bad happening to him in the near future which he is aware of.   

The shot reverse shot between the father and his son both at eye level and looking straight at the camera shows the similarities between these two characters and how close they are as relatives, this could also be a point of view shot. We also see the boy’s determination and passion as he speaks about a Saint. We then see how proud the father, as he is a pope.

The low angle shot, looking up at the pope marching out holding a cross in one hand. This gives the audience a sense of the characters power.

As the characters are marching out, the camera is constantly moving. This goes well with the upbeat music as it makes the scene high tempo and intense.

The camera then zooms out revealing an establishing shot of the location of the scene. From this shot the audience can truly grasp the hectic, noisy and busy scene this introduction is set in. 

Sound

In the very first clip all we can here is the sound of the characters blade shaving his face. This immediately sets an tense atmosphere and builds up tension.

We then here a narrator’s voice and talking in the past tense about this scene. This shows that the scene is a flash back and the small boy is the narrator at a young age.

The music starts being played and the audience can instantly tell that the music represents this cult gang as it is mostly drums being played by hand and a whistle, reminds the audience of a tribe. It is also very upbeat and high tempo which fits the new high tempo atmosphere in the scene.

There is also a constant sound of people shouting and talking behind the music. This gives off the impression of a busy atmosphere and very hectic.

The music gradually increases speed and intensity. Then suddenly, when a character kicks open a door to a courtyard, the music stops and it is silent. This silence goes well with the emptiness of the scene as the audience would expect there to be something exciting after the build up. This creates a contrast to the noisy scene before.

Editing

In the scene there is a sequence of clips of men and women preparing for war merged into together to create a montage. This is particularly effective as it is fast and fits in with the upbeat music being played. It also shows the audience the importance of this event as there are many people preparing for it. It also sets a vibrant atmosphere for the audience.

Mise-en-scene

Throughout the introduction, it is set in a dark cave looking location. This gives the impression that they are an gang. There are also people playing drums and dancing around which gives off signs of tribal gangs.