Opening Sequence of ''House of Wax''

The melancholic and eerie music used in the opening of this film immediately sets the right tone and atmosphere, as it is effective in building up tension and expectation among the audience. A high angle camera shot is also very effective, as it creates a sense of detachment from the scene, as the audience aren't made to feel as though they are in the scene, but in fact watching from an outside position. The fact that you can't see the characters faces intrigues the audience, but also inflicts fear, as they are blind to the situation and the people involved. The music which is played at the same time as the boy is being strapped into the chair using leather straps is fast paced, and consequently creates a sense of desperation. There is apparent violence in the opening scene suggesting that the age restrictions are quite high for this film. The dip to black is very effective in changing the scene, as it happens just after the woman hits the little boy, indicating that maybe the child has been knocked out. The technique of not showing the characters face is something that may be of use in our piece, as it is very effective in creating a sense of ''the unknown'' and therefore creating fear.