'Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone'

Analysis of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone: Opening Scene

In the opening scene of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone eerie music is used right from the beginning to set the scene as it creates tension and a sense of mystery. In the scene there is low key lighting which adds to the suspense which is already being created. These two factors do not let the audience know whether what to come is good or evil. There are enigma codes placed through out the opening sequence as two characters are discussing 'rumours' but do not elaborate on what they are. They zoom onto the letter with the name 'Mr and Mrs V. Dursley' which shows that the characters will hold importance through out the movie. They also zoom into the prominent scar on Harry's face which is the first introduction we get of the main protagonist, because there is such a focus on what appears to be a normal scar this makes the audience subconsciously start to question why bringing more enigma codes into the opening. The close up on the scar the transitions into the main title which has thunder and lightning in the background to create a dark and creepy atmosphere this hints that their will be a problem in the future of the movie.