Denotation of 'Sold'

The opening sequence of our horror film begins with different Christian iconographic symbols, such as a crucifix, stain-glass windows and an alter. Although these denote a religious aspect to the film, they are actually in place to juxtapose the theme of evil, worshipping the devil and satanic beliefs that run throughout. This leads into Sophie, the young girl in the film praying in the church, this being there also emphasises the religious side of the film but also connotes the girl’s innocence and purity. Also, the mise en scene of the first few shots of the sequence being in a church denotes the idea of religion – however, the film does not really have a religious theme running throughout, its more the idea of a sense of purity which is very much the opposite of the films themes.

The footage of the exterior of Ewhurst Place also denotes the idea of innocence and naivety as it is of a young girl swinging on a swing – something that someone of a young age would do which puts emphasis on the idea of the conventional stereotypical young character that often appears in horror films. Also, with this being filmed outside a large house during the day– the audience would assume that there is a sense of normality, its setting up for the upcoming obscure events that are going to take place. This sequence denotes this ordinariness, therefore being able to build up the tension more when things do not seem so normal. When Sophie disappears this shows that there is something not quite right, giving the audience a sense of intrigue or mystery which also keeps them anxious. This intrigue also runs through into the basement scenes, they denote Sophie walking into the basement, connoting the idea that young people have a sense of exploration and adventure. However, with the darkness of the room and the sound effects used – it is seen to be extremely eerie, this is also emphasised by being an isolated location and the use of silence, there is no dialogue through this sequence. This connotes the idea of silence being powerful, something which the Devil coincides with this belief. This whole sequence being in darkness in an isolated location connotes a sense of mystery. The Devil itself is an iconic symbol, although throughout his appearance is to show him more as protagonist, something he very much isn’t. Although the opening does not denote this, he is dressed like a business man, a dichotomy of sexuality and power. Also he seems to come across as rather sly in the opening, like he is hiding something – someone who is being extremely secretive.

I feel that the whole opening sequence is set up to be very psychological because I believe that what we actually watch is not what things actually connote. There is a real sense of mystery and the film will only be understood once watched the whole thing. The on-running theme of purity, naivety and innocence are clearly apparent, although they are only there to juxtapose the main themes of our film ‘Sold’.