JI:Film Opening Analysis 4: Raging Bull

JI

This is the opening scene from Raging Bull a film predominately based on boxing. Although the action and narrative is minimal I feel it is very effective and creates a great, appropriate atmosphere.

• Firstly I feel that the music used throughout the opening scene really emphasizes the beauty of boxing, and portrays the sport as an art not a war, the music has quite a slow tempo and a major key.

• The music is very soothing but at the same time still entices the viewer to concentrate on the hooded figure in the centre of the ring.

• The font and colour of the text are simple but effective. The bright red provides subtle clues to boxing is a brutal sport and is not for the feint hearted however as this coincides with the music I feel as though the beauty outweighs the violence.

• The lighting in the sequence works really well to make the boxing ropes stand out bold, also the simplicity of the black and white emphasises the characters figure. The flashing lights work well to create a big event.

• The simple costume of just a boxing outfit with the predominate robe works well with the characters hood up not revealing the main character as yet, however showing off his figure and action.

• The audience are instantly positioned with the story plot with the location of the boxing ring along with the main character.

There isn't really a social group presented in this scene, as with the audience not being able to see the main characters characteristics, so a judgement can't be made, however with the rich feel which the lighting and sound creates, I feel there is an event feel to the sequence portraying a middle class feeling.

The target audience for Raging Bull I feel is of a sporting background, particularly boxing, however with the drama mix as well, a broadened audience can be targeted such as young adults, as it contains a lot of fight scenes.

I feel Robert De Nero plays a very good role through out the film of being a tough American/Italian fighter in which the general public can relate to as he portrays certain heroic characteristics whilst boxing.