Research and Planning - Film opening analysis - Definately Maybe

Definately Maybe is a similar genre to the film 'Notting Hill' a Romantic/Comedy. This is easily identified within the opening scene, starting with the main character being handed a divorce letter implying a disastrous relationship, immediately introducing an easy listening, fun loving song awakening the audience, representing that the divorce isn't a bad thing, things seem to be looking up. Opening the first scene with a divorce letter helps us to consider the genre of film, as a lively romantic.

The purpose of the opening scene is to help introduce the main characters and an important concise explanation of the current situation. Following the non-diegetic, happy music over the top, he uses a similar non-diegetic voice over the music introducing us to his lifestyle, on his way to pick up his obviously very important daughter from school, this part is made clear that it is very important by being incorporated in to the opening scene.

The purpose of the opening sequence was achieved through the media language by implying an expert film director, immediately recognising the rule of three which was used to frame the scene well, following a montage of a positive lifestyle again implying things are going to start looking up, this is used to hook the audience into the film to keep them eager to view the future of his relationships. Contradicting the cover of the film 'Three relationships, Three disasters' were as the opening music implies a positive approach to the film. Also including key imagery to set the scene of the film; yellow taxis, empire state building and a busy lifestyle, all this helps the audience to relate as the setting of New York.