Title Research: Carol

 Found on Netflix

What titles are displayed during the opening sequences?

The film begins with the various production companies for its initial titles. After this, we see the two main actresses' names at the bottom of the screen, written in identical shades of blue. We see the title of the film, which is written in the same font as the rest of the titles, only taking up a much larger amount of space. After the title fades away we see the rest of the actors' names written in differing shades of blue on the bottom of the screen. After the actors have been credited the production team's titles are presented in the same way, although it now gradually fades from a blue to a light orange. 

What images are prioritized in the opening sequence?

 In the opening sequence, we are shown New York City.  Beginning with a tilt across the subway grate and ending in a lush restaurant. The purpose of these images is to introduce us to the setting.

What connotations do these images carry?

These images connote ideas of luxury, like the restaurant which is full of well-dressed patrons and expensive decor. While simultaneously showing the dirtier and colder NYC, the subway grate is grey, rusted, and likely dirty, and the shots outside are dark, and set in the rain, with the people wearing more average-looking clothes. 

How does the film establish a feeling of the genre from the outset?

The juxtaposition of the two settings in the intro reflects the themes of the film, ideas of loving someone who might as well be from an entirely different world. However, The intro establishes the film as a drama in other ways. For instance, low lighting, even indoors, suggesting a dark, although not dangerous mood. Additionally, the instrumental is romantic and melancholy, which puts the audience in the right emotional state to watch the film. 

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

Being produced by a large company, Carol likely wanted to reach as wide of a demographic as possible, while simultaneously trying to be an awards contender. This means that the film kept things simple but effective. The music and mise-en-scene were glamorous enough for the audience to feel as though they are watching a luxurious and extremely well-made movie, but the shots are easy to follow and the story is relatively easy to follow 

How has technology been used effectively? You want to consider camera angles, transitions, and editing techniques.

The film keeps its technology simple, but, it is used very effectively. The first half of the intro is one long take with no cuts. It begins with a tilt along with the subway platform before titling up again pasts people's shoes and continuing with a medium to wide tracking shot. The effect this shot has makes the audience feel as though they are flying through New York. However, once the audience sees the inside of the restaurant the scene becomes less fluid, which fits the now tense mood, the scene is edited so there are various jump cuts and eye-line matches.