Shutter island opening

The opening scene of 'Shutter Island' begins by creating instant uncertainty and anticipation by showing an establishing shot of thick fog and a boat entering through it. This use of setting works well as the audience aren't shown much so they have no idea of the location therefore creating suspense.

This is accompanied by deep orchestral music which contributes to the viewers feeling of being unsettled and furthers their anticipation. In addition to this the low key lighting in the boat and cold colours on deck, as apposed to warm colours in his flash back. This gives the audience an idea of the characters mental state in the present as apposed to the past, making them ask questions about what may have happened to alter that. This idea is extended by the light hearted music that accompanies the flashback.

A question about his phobia of sea sickness is raised from the beginning, and this is complemented by the camera matching the sway of the boat, making the audience feel involved and sympathetic for the character, connecting them to his physical state. On deck there is excessive use of medium shots to further the audiences uncertainty as they are not allowed to grasp a sense of location.

The prop of handcuffs create an enigma because the audience are unaware of what purpose they serve. It is an unsettling prop which quickly makes the viewer feel anxiety.

When this location is finally revealed in an establishing shot the music becomes more dramatic, attaching negative and terrifying thoughts, increasing the tension. In doing so an enigma is created because all the audience know is that it is an island, so from the beginning they are asking questions about what is so negative so they are intrigued.