Many films kick off with a bang, utilizing unforgettable cold opens that encapsulate the essence of their narratives. While typically associated with action films, this engaging technique can also be identified in horror, crime thrillers, war dramas, and various other genres.
The primary objective of a compelling cold open is to captivate the audience right from the outset. It achieves this while also hinting at crucial character details and storylines, ensuring that if executed properly, the opening becomes memorable long after the credits roll.
10
Jaws (1975)
The First Attack Sets Up An Engrossing Thriller
As a pioneer of the summer blockbuster, Jaws held the title of the highest-grossing film for years, thanks in large part to its spine-tingling opening scene. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film immediately immerses viewers in the lurking threat beneath the ocean. Although the narrative is loosely inspired by true events, Spielberg effectively cloaks the shark’s menacing presence, establishing it as a near-mythical predator.
Elements such as the shark’s point-of-view shots and the film’s iconic suspenseful score intensify the chilling attack on Chrissie Watkins, marking a captivating introduction. Notably, Spielberg strategically delays revealing the shark, amplifying its almost supernatural mystique.
9
The Matrix (1999)
Trinity’s First Fight Demonstrates A Unique Style Of Action
Revolutionizing the science fiction genre, The Matrix begins with an electrifying scene featuring Trinity in a nail-biting escape from multiple agents. This introduction features the film’s signature wire-fu choreography and breathtaking bullet-time sequences, establishing a benchmark for action cinematography.
The cold open not only immerses the audience in high-octane thrills but also sets the stage for the narrative, effectively introducing the film’s unique technological premise and style.
8
Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Quentin Tarantino’s War Fantasy Begins With A Masterpiece Of Tension
Inglourious Basterds arguably represents Quentin Tarantino’s pinnacle as a filmmaker. The opening scene is a masterclass in tension, setting up the revenge narrative in a standalone dramatic presentation as Colonel Hans Landa visits a farmhouse. Tarantino’s distinctive dialogue and the scene’s brooding atmosphere reveal the depth of his storytelling prowess.
Renowned for his meticulous attention to performance, Christoph Waltz’s portrayal serves as a stand-out element, encapsulating the script’s blend of seriousness and dark wit.
7
The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan Introduces Batman’s Most Famous Enemy In Style
The Dark Knight distinguishes itself within Christopher Nolan’s trilogy, prominently highlighted by Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker. The film opens with a meticulously crafted bank heist that not only showcases the Joker’s clever malevolence but also serves to outline his chaotic worldview.
Though the heist could easily sustain an entire film, Nolan utilizes it succinctly. This cold open redefines the superhero genre’s conventions, portraying the Joker as an intellectual adversary rather than just another criminal mind.
6
Goodfellas (1990)
Martin Scorsese’s Stylish Crime Saga Shows Henry’s Origins
From the very beginning, Goodfellas captivates with its memorable quote. Henry Hill expresses, “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster,”setting a stark contrast against the grim scene that follows, where he and his crew commit a violent crime.
This cold open showcases Martin Scorsese’s signature storytelling style, wrapping audiences in a world of fast-paced dialogue intertwined with the unsettling realities of mob life, all bathed in the cold glow of car headlights.
5
X2: X-Men United (2003)
Nightcrawler’s Attack On The White House Is A Great Opener
The exhilarating opening of X2: X-Men United features Nightcrawler’s breathtaking assault on the White House, showcasing his remarkable powers and establishing the film’s stakes from the outset. Director Bryan Singer masterfully utilizes Nightcrawler’s teleportation abilities to create a gripping sequence.
This high-energy introduction not only sets the tone but also lays the groundwork for thematic explorations of mutant rights within the film, allowing for deeper character development to unfold thereafter.
4
Indiana Jones & The Last Crusade (1989)
Indy’s Origins Are Tied To His Legacy
In wrapping up the original trilogy, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade opens with a flashback to a young Indy on a thrilling adventure, cleverly connecting the dots to his legacy. This opener serves as both a humorous and heart-pounding introduction, effectively engaging the audience from the start.
This sequence not only captures attention but also foreshadows the intricate dynamics he shares with his father, enhancing the emotional stakes as the film progresses.
3
Baby Driver (2017)
Edgar Wright’s Heist Thriller Starts With An Explosive Action Scene
Baby Driver, an evolution of a concept Edgar Wright initially explored in a music video, opens with a spellbinding chase, highlighting his creative growth as a filmmaker. The protagonist is introduced through an exhilarating sequence that seamlessly integrates music and action.
The film’s lively soundtrack, particularly the use of “Bellbottoms”by The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, becomes an integral part of the narrative, setting the stage for Baby’s escapades in a world where rhythm drives the action.
2
Children Of Men (2006)
Alfonso Cuarón’s Thriller Starts With A Blend Of Action And Worldbuilding
Despite its initial commercial struggles, Children of Men has garnered acclaim as a pivotal sci-fi thriller. Its cold open effectively conveys the film’s unique attributes, fusing stark worldbuilding with high-stakes action.
This tense introduction not only captures the audience’s attention but also vividly hints at the violence and turmoil prevalent in this dystopian setting—all shot in a mesmerizing long take that sets the tempo for the movie’s adrenaline-driven scenes.
1
Scream (1996)
Drew Barrymore Leaves A Lasting Impression
Scream serves as a clever commentary on slasher conventions, striking a balance between humor and horror. The film’s opening scene featuring Drew Barrymore is particularly iconic, establishing Scream’s credentials as both a satirical and genuinely frightening film.
This unforgettable cold open lays the groundwork for the mystery centered around the Ghostface killer, marking it as a defining moment that has led to a longstanding tradition of thrilling cold opens in the franchise. With the forthcoming Scream 7, audiences are anticipating yet another gripping opening sequence.