Se7en - Opening Sequence Analysis

My detailed breakdown of the opening sequence of Se7en (1995) - Click HERE to view sequence.

The thriller Se7en was written by Andrew Walker and directed by David Fincher in 1995. Kyle Cooper designed this particular opening sequence. His previous works includes Iron Man and Spider-Man.

The opening sequence works as a prologue for the film in that it introduces the character of the killer (played by Kevin Spacey) and sets the atmosphere for the rest of the film. In just over 2 minutes, Kyle Copper and David Fincher start to hint at and present Se7en to be a disturbing and horrific experience for the viewer.

Se7en is a psychological thriller with horror and neo-noir (a genre of film that combines elements of traditional film noir with modern themes and visuals) elements that serves to make the film an unique and memorable experience for the audience.

In the opening sequence we see a collection 

of about 70 extreme close-ups that has similar characteristics to a montage. This functions to simultaneously hook the audience in with small detail whilst distancing the audience by not showing any wider shots that would then give a clear view of the main character.

The editing is fast paced and consists of several dissolve transitions, which are used to create a sense of disjointedness. Cooper creates a stylish texture effect, which gives the entire sequence a washed out look. Also, Cooper over layers different shots to show the main character doing a number of different activities.

The music is gritty and really reflects upon the overall disturbing tone of the film. The music used is Nine Inch Nails, which is an American industrial rock project, which is associated with dark and gruesome imagery.

The sequence is filled with hints about the characteristics of the main character. For example, the word 'God' is being cut out of a dollar bill. The character believes he is God in the film, which is hinted through the cutting out.

Overall the opening sequence of Se7en was ground breaking; the New York Times deemed it as "one of the most important design innovations of the 1990s".