Analysing the Opening of Delicatessen

Exposition:

The way in which a film introduces background information regarding a story as well as context on prior events in the story as well as the time and place in the plot.

The exposition of Delicatessan depicts this through a cold opening previous to the opening title sequence, the establishing shot displays decrepit buildings masked by a thick yellow fog which alludes to the time that this film is set in - it clearly communicates that it is not in the present day. Additionally, the place is established through the use of non-diegetic music, this is clear as the accordion is featured throughout the entire track which carries connotations of classical French music. 

Setting A Tone:

Despite a lack of dialogue, the tone is set through the use of sound and mise-en-scene. This is evident as there is a foreboding sense of impending doom due to the diegetic sound of the butcher sharpening his knives. However, this is juxtaposed through the comedy in the man's costume of newspapers wrapped around his body. This black humor, common for French films, is reinforced by the yelp from the bin when the butcher throws in the end of a cigarette as well as both actor's facial expressions, the man wrapped in newspaper has his eyes open extremely wide to communicate his fear however it has a comedic effect was it is reminiscent of a cartoon.

Structure:

Delicatessan is structured to include a cold opening precedent to the discreet opening title sequence. This allows the audience to be introduced to the exposition of the story and are provided with an introduction to the plot, additionally, it allows a different editing style as well as animation. This type of variation is intriguing to an audience and captures their attention as it is more alluring and ominous if it doesn't follow the style that they have just seen - drawing attention to the credits. An example where this has been done before is in the James Bond films as they follow the same structure. The most common transition between shots is a cross fade, which positions the audience to be discombobulated and bewildered, heightening their attention as they attempt to position themselves in the sequence. This is enhanced by the sound bridge that is utilised when the diegetic sound of the butcher sharpening his knife is carried through the vents between the rooms but becomes more echoed and the camera turns in various directions. The claustrophobic perspective shots in the bin enhance the discomfort as they deny the audience information and suspend their disbelief.