Emma - Title Sequence

The film production logo, 'Miramax Films', was the first thing the audience see.  This informs the audience of what they may expect within the film, from previous films Miramax have produced.

We then see a quickly spinning globe.  When we are given a close up of the globe, it slows down, and tells the viewer of the film the main location of the story, which is London, Highbury.  As the globe continues to move round, we are cleverly introduced to all of the main characters that will appear in the film, and also the houses that they live in.

These images are given to us through miniature portraits.  These were popular in the period of the film, and also, we later discover painting to be one of the main characters hobby's. The form of painting was water colours, which is also a popular form of art.  Brown, green pastoral colours were used to create the warmth, and positive vibe of a country village, and the positive atmosphere of the film.

The globe could also represent the little world that 'Emma' lives in.  Mentally, and physically.  As a character, we learn that Emma see's the world through rose tinted glasses.  It could also represent how she knows little about the world outside of Highbury.

Peaceful, romantic music can be heard throughout the opening title sequence.  This creates a calm, carefree atmosphere for the rest of the film, and informs the viewer that it will include romance, and happiness.  Soft instruments, such as the flutes and soft strings create this atmosphere.  These instruments are usually used for romanic music, and are often used in folk music.  This connects with the dancing of the period, that we see in the film.

Floral patterns and a formal font are used for the titles.  These set the high status of the Woodhouse family within the village.  Floral patterns were also very popular at the time.  These patterns also develop on the pastoral theme of the title sequence, and the warm atmosphere.

Overall, this opening sequence is very effective.  It informs the viewer of all of the main characters, and the locations we will see them in, and also creates a warm, positive atmosphere for the remainder of the film.