The film Skyfall was screened in 2012. At the beginning of the movie the director continues the tradition of the title sequences, which has been introduced by Maurice Binder, the author of the famous gun barrel shot, the iconic image of James Bond (Yamato). One of the main themes of the Skyfall opening titles is death. The sequence opens with the shot of Daniel Craig as he falls to the bottom of the riverbed. A woman’s hand is taking him deeper and deeper. It is clearly seen that Bond is wounded and unconscious. The main colors of the sequence are dark blue, red and black and imply danger, mystery, blood and death. Further, the spectator observes a series of surreal images of guns, daggers and shadows of foes. The video itself implies the subconscious and memories of the main character. The target with the image of wounded Bond can be found in the sequence. This reminds on how dangerous the profession of the spy is. Furthermore, the daggers are turned into the gravestones, and the red stains are formed into the image of sculp. It also appears that Bond fights with his own shadows and shoots the mirrors. These moments probably imply the unexpected hazards and the inner enemy the character of Daniel Craig needs to struggle with. The dragon and fire in the video imply the danger as well. One of the last scene of the title sequence shows the house, which is destroyed with fire and blood. Thus, the director provides hints to the plot but they are not specific in order to keep the secret. The length of the opening titles is about 4 minutes, which allows demonstrating a lot of people, who took part in the Skyfall creation. The text of the screen is rather small in order to focus on the plot of the sequence.
All in all, the title sequence of the movie goes in a line with Adele’s song and with the film itself. It creates the anticipation of danger and mystery and also provides some implications on the future plot of the Skyfall.
Work Cited
Yamato, Jen. "Bond Designer Danny Kleinman On His 'Skyfall' Title Sequence (And How
OddSunStudios. "Skyfall Opening Credits (HD)." YouTube. YouTube, 19 Jan. 2013. Web. 28
