Film Opening Research #2 - The Lion King

 Adventure Film - The Lion King (2019)

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

The Disney introduction rolls first with a cartoon castle and fireworks followed by "Disney Presents" and a striking African sunrise, followed by a sequence of many animals gathering. Hereafter, the title is shown boldly in big, yellow letters one time, nearly 5 minutes in. 

What images are prioritized in the opening sequence? 

Images of animals on the African Savannah in the sunrise, gathering near a cliff top and clearing. Lions stand on top above all the animals, as the opening images focus on a baboon lifting up the baby cub, before closing on the title in bold yellow letters.

What connotations do the images carry? 

The images carry a connotation of nature, and the hierarchy of the animal kingdom. 

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

The genre is reinforced through the symbolic codes in that the opening sequence centers around a bunch of animals coming to center around a lion cub; it shows inclusivity and peace among the animals in the African habitat. The outset shows that the lion will be the focus of the story, and his adventures in life to come. 

How does the film establish an enigma from the outset? 

The film establishes an enigma around the lion cub from the outset, as everything shown in the sequence is focused around him. 

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

Inclusion of baby animals helps center the movie around families and younger audiences, along with the soothing music and beautiful scenery. A feeling of inclusivity and peace within the animals depicted is also comforting for a younger age group, families, and quite honestly all ages.

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

Technology has been used very effectively to animate the movie in such an intricate way, that it seems real. The animation allows the scenes to be shown from any angle, and in a way which sheds light on the landscape and narrative as a whole.