Gladiator and Saving Private Ryan - ****

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How do the directors of ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Saving Private Ryan’ make the opening of their films appeal to the audience?

In this essay I will answer the question above. I will comment on different variables such as camera angles, sound effects, the set, themes, dialogue and also symbolism. Throughout the assignment I shall comment and discuss the differences and the similarities between both of the movies, compare the opening sequences of the two films using the variables that I have mentioned and also I will conclude with which movie I believed had the most effective opening.

To make a good movie a lot of things need to be contributed towards it. This includes comedy, action, a gripping storyline, a good use of the stated variables and also it needs to be easy to follow because if it is not, it can be hard to follow. An example of a film which has been superbly done is ‘War of the Worlds’ directed by Steven Spielberg. The story is about a man that is separated from his wife and children. One weekend they come to stay with the father and the unthinkable happens - aliens attack Earth. Throughout the story it follows the characters, showing raw emotion, action, and suspense which truly interact with the viewer. Spielberg’s range of camera angles, special effects and the set the movie is placed in helps give a bigger impact. Comedy in a movie often enhances the ‘good feeling’ about watching it and usually every movie needs this essential feel good factor.

A movie also needs to include a good opening. A good opening needs to have some form of suspense to bring you into the storyline. This grips the viewer and makes them want to carry on watching. Also, a long opening can often be boring, and so it needs to be kept short. Music in the background can enhance the impact - an example of this is ‘Star Wars’. The theme tune is quite eerie and thrilling; this also relates with the movie as it is also mysterious and intriguing. At the introduction of a film I believe that a good range of camera angles should be a must. It sets the scene and can be used to heighten tension (this is used in Gladiator, panning the battle field and showing the vast numbers of soldiers on both sides, creating a very cold, bloody atmosphere).

I will proceed to tell you about the story of both films:

‘Gladiator’ was produced in 2000 and was directed by Ridley Scott. The story is about a Roman General by the name of ‘Maximus’. Maximus is adored by the people and especially the ageing Emperor, ‘Marcus Aurelius’. Before the death of the Emperor, Marcus Aurelius claims Maximus to be the new heir over his son – Commodus, which then leaves Maximus and his family condemned to death. Unable to save his family, he is put into the ‘Gladiator games’ – hence the title ‘Gladiator’. Maximus now only wants to look into the eyes of the man that will feel his revenge.

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During the opening sequence of ‘Gladiator’, you see the middle part of Maximus’ body as he is walking through a cornfield. He stretches out his arm, and runs his fingers through the corn and you hear the distant shouts from children. As his hand runs through the corn, you notice a wedding ring – this indicates that he is a married man.  Soon after, the pace of action quickens and you see Maximus talking to herds of people.  He was a leader and everyone obeyed him.  Horses and men come, wearing armour and holding weapons - that’s when I first ...

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