Film Opening Research #1 - Taylor Swift reputation Stadium Tour

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

One time, "Taylor Swift reputation Stadium Tour"

what images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

Images of paparazzi- primarily negative and Taylors drama is prioritized during the opening sequence. There is more so sound effects rather than images that give off the meaning. The opening is extremely metaphorical in the sense of the snakes and her face being out of the cameras view as well. The reptilian skin dress also emphasizes the snake metaphor.

what connotations do the images carry?

The connotations the images carry is that she was "hiding" because she disappeared for weeks and then at the end of the opening scene she appears onstage which promotes the idea that she is out of her "hiding". The contrast between the bright stage lights and the dim lighting also imply that she is going to do something, as in the end of the scene she appears onstage.

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

This movie is a documentary. The subgenre is what is called a "rockumentary". Symbolic codes throughout this film include the reptilian skin. Taylor was called a "snake" so she turned it in her favor- and owned it. The setting is carried throughout her tour in many different dates and locations (which I was able to go to one!). The audio was her music from her album "Reputation". The opening scene had non-diegetic sound and for the most part afterwards was all diegetic. Many different angles were used throughout this film as well. Starting with a close up and moving farther back into an extreme wide shot of her on the stage is just one example.

how does the film establish an enigma from the outset?

The film establishes an enigma from the outset because usually documentaries are boring. Most of the time documentaries are associated with nature and history. In the recent century, rockumentaries have sparked. For example, there is one of Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga. 

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

The film has a very small scope of audience. Either Taylor fans or haters. Those who love Taylor will obviously view it in support, and those who oppose her will view it to see what it's about. Taylor Swift has a very large fanbase though.

how has technology been used effectively? 

The staging and lighting was used effectively throughout her tour when performing. The clips of her on tour signify this. Without the special effects and use of high tech lighting it would not be the same.