The Machinist Opening Scene

The opening sequence of the film is situated a dark, isolated location, with our main character disposing of a mysterious object. This immediately starts to produce questions, such as; "what is he doing?" and " what is he carrying?" The use of low-key lighting creates a negative, dull atmosphere, which is emphasised by the rainy thundery weather. Most of the main character's apartment is very simplistic, which shows the complexity of his character. He has a dead end job in amachine shop, which also adds to the idea of simplicity. His apartment consists of little, discoloured furniture, and his bathroom is very clinical and seems very clean, showing that the character may be very obsessive, and possibly a clean freak. He seems very lonely as well, as he doesn't go out with his friends ane doesn't have a girlfriend. In a few scenes, he spends his time in the company of a prostitute named Stevie, and a waitress at a cafe at an airport. The cafe in question is well-lit, and there is a much warmer atmosphere about it than the other locations featured in the film (contrasting with the genre). The main character does not speak very much, and he seems reserved and laid back.

• Dark setting - low-key lighting - profile shot of main character.
• Diegetic sound - thunder.
• Non-diegetic sound - dramatic music.
• The main character is smoking which suggests he could be stressed or anxious.
• The locations are isolated.
• Medium and medium-long shots mainly used.
• Barely any speech - tense atmosphere.
• There is a mirror image used - suggests that he may have an alter-ego. Half of his face is enshrouded in darkness which also suggests he has an evil/dark side.
• There are flashbacks.
• Non-diegetic music in a "minor" key - eery sound builds tension.
• Sad atmosphere - cahracter of Reznik seems lonely - prefers to be alone.
• Noisy machines - establishing job.