Codes and conventions of opening sequences

In order to create a feature film, tools (known as codes) of the filmmaking trade, such as music, script, costumes, camera angles and framing, are used. These are only a few examples of film codes. It is the way that these are used (which is known as conventions) that helps us understand which characters are playing each role in the story. Indeed, the exact way directors use these tools can encourage us to like or dislike a character and also help us to understand how important each character is in the story.

For example, if a character in a film was seen entering an office building in the dark shadows of the night and threatening music was heard at the same time, then we would probably think that the character was either a thief or criminal of some sort. Yet if the lighting was changed so that the character was not seen in shadows but in bright light, and pleasant music was heard, then we would probably believe this character was a person who worked in that building. Maybe he or she was doing some overtime to meet a deadline of some sort.

The result of codes and conventions being used in such ways is that we, as viewers, are encouraged to accept the story, and everything in it, in the way the director wants us to. In this way, too, directors have the ability to encourage us into accepting certain opinions about people, groups of people and ideas. This can have a real-life effect.

In the early years of American television, the western was a favourite type of feature film and TV show. Many young children who saw these often played Cowboys and Indians. The Indians rarely won any of the battles, as they were shown in a negative way through the use of filmic codes. Even if the Indians did win a battle, the Cowboys were seen as heroic and the real winners even if they lost their lives. This type of influence can spill over into everyday life. The Indians were actually representatives of Native Americans and it took a long time after these westerns were made before the majority of the viewing population actually called this group of people by their correct name: Native American and not 'Indians'. So not only can we be entertained, but we can also learn to accept ideas without really knowing that this is happening.