Film Opening Research #1 - White Chicks

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

At the beginning of the film 'White Chicks', only one title is displayed, that being the movie title.
What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

In the opening sequence, the prioritized images are two 'cashiers' dancing and speaking with their clients, set in a shabby-looking street-side stop. There is a brief focus on the clients who are dressed nicely, clad in dress shirts and slacks. This greatly differs from the workers, emphasizing how the clients don't necessarily come often, or how they are seen as unusual.

What connotations do the images carry?

The images carry strange connotations, breaking away from the usual miserable-worker stereotype and instead of placing the two cashiers as unprofessional. However, the clients can make the audience feel uneasy or suspicious, as they look threatening and much too organized for the job (delivering icecream).

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

The genre is reinforced through the looks of the actors primarily. The two main characters are dressed in a comical way and overacting in order to appeal to the audience. The setting also contributes to this, as the shop is set to be shabby but still somewhat functional, like the main characters. As for technical codes, the camera is set to a medium shot to only show the torso of the characters. The camera is also facing the two main workers, emphasizing their importance and occasionally flipping to the faces of the clients to get confused or overall stern reactions.

How does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

The film establishes an enigma from the beginning by focusing on supposed minor characters, and on their overdramatic shenanigans. This may confuse the audience, especially when the clients enter the store, as they let off a sense of importance that the two main characters do not at the time.

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

In the film opening, there are several ways in which it attempts (and succeeds) to appeal to its target audience. The film focuses on comedy stereotypes, such as a heavily accented Cuban man smoking a cigar. Not only that, but the film opening also shows the stern faces of the Russian men, showing a stark contrast between the two groups. This could be seen as a deadpan comedic moment, while the overacting fits into a more slapstick genre.

How has technology been used effectively? You might want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques.

In the film opening, they begin with an establishing shot to first show the audience the overall setting of the area. The music that can be heard is considered diegetic, and with the music still playing the focus is then set inside of a street-side shop.