Horror Film Openings

I researched some well known horror openings and looked into what they delineate to the audience and how they set the scene...

The Shining (1980)



In this opening there are lots of aerial shots showing the mountainous landscape, the music consists of deep tone and eerie vocals. This opening helps set the scene of isolation as the vast emptiness of the environment is shown. 

The Exorcist (1973)

The Exorcist - Opening Scene (Click Here)

This opening is driven by music that rises in volume and pitch building up suspense  it begins by panning a house and we see some lights switched off behind the curtains, moving to a dark street lit with lamps as a couple walk by, this is portraying a sense of normality but the music contrasts  this making the audience expect something deeper. A cut to a white statue shows the link to religion,a theme in the film, the statue seems innocent its eyes are closed yet the music continues to contrast what is seen and gives an eerie quality to it. 

Jaws (1975)

Jaws - Opening Credits (Click Here)

This opening is simplistic as it uses only one shot and setting, the music is deep and atmospheric matching the underwater environment  it rises in volume to create tension. The peacefulness of the ocean is juxtaposed by the dark music creating a suspicious and fearful mood.