Drama Research

 Drama Research

Yay!!! Step one of my plan is finally done, I have chosen my genre! But now, it is time to do some more research on popular drama film openings.

The drama genre really interests me because it allows you to explore raw emotion and real issues. Dramas tend to follow authentic conflict from everyday life. I enjoy how this genre can be based on very relatable topics that the viewer may identify with.

There Will be Blood (2007)

This film opens with its title which is displayed in a grotesque font which is followed with disturbing music by John Greenwood which sets the distressing and menacing tone of the film. What I love about this film opening is that it was able to introduce the main character, Daniel Plainview very clearly to the viewers. The use of little to no monologue allows the viewers to be focused on Daniel's actions along with the silence contributing to the overall tone. We see the scene begin with Daniel working at a silver mine, it continues on to show him peacefully sitting by a fire with a drink while there is a storm going on. He is later badly injured while mining, but he perseveres and we see him begin to crawl backwards as the camera moves on to a view of the mountains. With a combination of these simple scenes, it helps the viewer learn the basis of Daniel's character which throughout the film is shown to be stubborn and relentlessly focused. This opening did a great job at engaging the viewers and subtly hinting to the character's future plot line.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

This film opening is a great demonstration of introducing a character's personality extremely well. It follows the main character, Charlie Kelmeckis, as he explores the troubles of teenage life. The different scenes of him walking through the middle of the hallway as everyone around him has fun throwing their papers, as well as everyone in class raising their hand to volunteer except him, really shows the viewer a clear picture of him being the awkward introvert. This opening does a really good job at showing the dynamic Charlie has with his peers and it causes the viewer to anticipate how this may effect his future.

My Thoughts

After analyzing both of these drama film openings, I definitely think I am leaning towards similar themes of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, as it is touches on relatable issues that teenagers go through. I also enjoy how its film's opening clearly illustrates those issues of not fitting in and feeling alone. This has helped me a lot with beginning my brainstorming process and I am so excited to continue!