10 Memorable Opening Scenes in Film

Written by Noelle Buffam

Truth be told, there are few greater pleasures in the world than a kick-ass opening scene.

An audience walks into a movie theatre with expectations, and those expectations are often met, exceeded, or disappointed within the first moments of the film's start.

Yes, the opening scene sets the tone for the entire film.  It can be funny, scary, and even epic. Think of Kill Bill, or Christmas Vacation, even Rushmore with Max Fischer's montage of extracurricular activities.

The opening scene translates into such an important moment in the movie-going experience, so naturally, you know it carries even more clout in the screenwriting world. Forget the first few moments, the first page could be the difference between seeing the silver screen and seeing the corner trash can.

Below are 10 Memorable Opening Scenes in Film. Like the iconic scenes below, your opening must grab the reader. Don't waste it. Use the opening scene to create a world worthy of getting lost in, use it to set a tone all it's own, or use it to introduce a character great enough to be studied along names like Kane and Gillis. Regardless of your opening scene's goal, use the space well. After all, it's the first impression.