Kung Fu Panda opening sequence- Catherine Dalton

Kung Fu Panda- opening sequence
http://www.artofthetitle.com/2008/10/03/kung-fu-panda/
I am going to analyse Kung Fu Panda which is a cartoon film, directed by James Baxter. The opening sequence begins with a blue setting, that then changes to an orange setting with the title Kung Fu Panda, there is also a music change to demonstrate the significance of the name; effectively drawing the audience in. Then there is a shot of the title going and the camera moving down, demonstrating that the Kung Fu Panda is below, also establishing the setting. Then there is a voice over, describing the situation and a close up of the Panda, although he does not show his face. This may represent his power. Then there is a long shot of a building with the Panda in the shot, showing the audience where the narrative is going, this helps to move the narrative on quickly. The sequence then progressing into a fight where the Kung Fu Panda wins, this shows that he is powerful and the bright colours whilst he is fighting portray this further.

During this battle there is a second voice over saying “Get up, you will be late for work” and the shot then shows the Panda falling onto a wooden floor and his surrounding disappearing. This image of him falling, acts as a reality check for the Panda, and demonstrates to the audience that the experience that the Panda had undertaken was a dream.

Overall this sequence uses generic codes and conventions for an opening sequence, as it introduces the narrative, which consists of a Panda’s dream to be good at Kung Fu. Also introduces the main characters, and acts as a cliff hanger, as the audience now are interested to see more of the film.

Lastly I found the site useful, due to the comments on the bottom of each clip and the way that each clip can be easily used. This is helpful as it allowed me to easily click and use the clips around the site, also the quality of the clips were good, making it more enjoyable to watch. In addition to this the wide range of films to choose from, and information about the films aiding the studying and researching of conventions of opening seqences.