Se7en Title sequence analysis

   The use of colours in this title sequence is one of the most notable features. The colours used give off a monochrome effect which may imply a feeling of despair and mystery, but the colour scheme also includes hints of red which may connote anger and violence and give the audience a sense of what the film is based around and what emotions are involved. These colours used together match the general atmosphere we get from the sequence and suit the genre of psychological horror well.

   The font type and size of text used is another interesting point to comment on. We see fairly small font sized used which creates a sense of difficulty and awkwardness which is further enhanced by the effect added to the text which is a small vibration and a quick flash, then it disappears. These motions may connote feelings of panic and fear and help give the title sequence more meaning and depth. This flash also leaves a sort of subliminal effect or after shock because it is very sharp, concise editing which keeps the target audience engaged. The font type, which is jagged, further cements the genre and matches it. The fact that the names and text disappear so quickly also gives a great sense of mystery and gives us a feeling that dramatic events lie ahead.

  The soundtrack is just a diegetic collection of noises farther than actual music, and is very simple but effective. It uses a lot of stabs which help to create a dramatic effect and makes the title sequence in general very sinister. The tempo also helps to reinforce the fact that this film is a psychological horror, the slow tempo connotes a feeling of being helpless and trapped which is very effective.

   There are minimal camera work/shots used in this sequence, although the number of close ups may be something of significance, close ups always make the audience focus on a particular thing and give that object, or person, a particular meaning or emphasis, this links into the use of small objects e.g. needles and sharp objects, all these items are rusty and sinister, as well as all the other props, which fills us with a feeling of being squeamish and uncomfortable.

  The effect of mystery seems to be dominant throughout the title sequence of Se7en and is further enhanced by the fact that we don’t see any faces, other than pictures, the shots focus on what appear to be mutated, deformed hands, which of obviously relates to the genre, and gives us more to think about. Why are these hands deformed? Who’s are they? And will they become significant during the film?

   Chiaroscuro lighting is used to excellent effect and helps us to focus on particular areas and make us wonder what the darkness may be hiding. It again makes things tense, nervous and mysterious.

  Overall the techniques used in the title sequence are very effective and certainly match the genre and fulfil their purpose.