Forrest Gump Opening Sequence

Forrest Gump is a 1994 Comedy-Drama film. I believe that this opening scene is simplistic, yet still a strong opening sequence as it sets the scene for the rest of the film. For instance, It shows Tom Hanks as the first actor to be focused on, which suggests that he is the main character. As well as this, it shows Tom Hanks waiting for a bus, which indicates to the audience that he is waiting to go somewhere, which is quite vague, but still sets the scene. This is supported by the fact that he has a present on his case, which supports the point that he is going somewhere to visit someone. As well as this, the music that is used, along with the slow feather being followed in freehand, sets a calm, soothing tone, which therefore Suggests that the film is a Comedy-Drama and not, for example, a Thriller. The way that the credits fade in and out not only backs up the fact that the opening has a soothing tone, but also suggests to the audience a theme of the film, which is loved ones coming in and then fading out of Forrest Gumps life, such as his mother or Jenny. The opening scene doesn't, however, show any other character in the scene, which leaves the viewers unclear of the overall plot of the film or the relationship between characters. As well as this, the scene does not tell the viewers or even give a clue to who Forrest Gump is waiting for. The opening scene also only shows one scene and does not, for example, show any time lapse or different scenes to show different characters, which is why this opening is quite vague.