Opening Sequences: Once Upon A Time In Mexico

Once Upon A Time In Mexico - 2003
Director: Robert Rodriguez

The opening of this film immediately helps the audience to recognise the setting of the film. The bright lighting and exotic colours show us the time of day and help to set the mood of the film. We are also immediately introduced to the character played by Antonio Banderas; who we assume to be the main protagonist of the picture. His character, El Mariachi, is playing guitar in the streets and the camera soon starts to follow him around the town. The use of the tracking shot allows the audience to feel as if they are a part of the film, whilst also further helping to create a setting. The close up shot of his guitar also gives him character more depth, as we can assume that he is very artistic and passionate about music. Both the music and lighting help to create an exotic atmosphere, along with the variety of camera shots used to display both the setting and the characters. The simple yet bold credits are used not to distract the viewer from the image on the screen but to heighten the mexican mood. The sweeping and panning shots of the city suggest that we will experience them throughout the film and also make the opening seem more dramatic, along with the increasing tension caused by the music.