Title research: Hostage

How many titles are displayed during the opening sequences to the film?

There were about 29 titles in the introduction of the movie Hostage. The title of the movie (hostage) was in the middle of the titles rather than the end like I thought was a waste in suspense. The film has such a great title, and I feel it was wasted by putting it in the middle rather than the end. 

What images are prioritized in opening sequence? 

During the opening sequence, it was an animated showing of the city and how the city should appear in the movie. When the opening sequence ends it changes to a real actor screaming in a caged area.

What connotations do the images carry?

They show that struggle, distress, and ruggedness of the city. This lets the audience know what the rest of the movie is going to be like. This is important to draw in the targeted audience. 

How is genre reinforced through symbolic and technical codes from the outset?

The genre of action is shown through the chaos of helicopters, guns, army men, etc. However, there is a slight showing of a thriller towards the end of the opening sequence, when they show a character screaming. 

How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

It shows signs of war and distress, leaving the audience with suspense, wondering why the city looks this way. This leaves them intrigued and continuing to watch the movie. 

What strategies are used to ensure the film appeals to its target audience? 

The film is appealing towards what can only be assumed to be the male audience. This is because the film shows everything that a boy is told they should like, hence why this film would try to target them. 

How has technology been used effectively?

Technology has been used through the use of editing animation. This leaves a lack of detail in the opening sequence, leaving the audience hanging with just enough information to have them intrigued. The last edit used at the end of the introduction really shows the transition from the intro to the core of the movie. This shows the audience a piece of what they will see throughout the rest of the movie.