Opening Scenes and Enigma - Conclusion

The final purpose of opening sequences appears to be to create enigma for the audience. Often the spectator comes into the middle of events at the beginning of a film, with little or no exposition or backstory. This creates mystery, forcing the spectator to work harder to make sense of what is happening. This is particularly common in specific genres, such as horror films or thrillers, where the director's intention is to unsettle and disorientate the viewer.

I may decide to create enigma for my audience in my opening scene, by withholding narrative information, particularly if I decide to work within the horror or thriller genres.