Movies That Start With Intriguing Introductions

Are you looking for a captivating start to a film? Ever wondered if there’s a movie that starts with a statement like, “The story you are about to see is true”? Well, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll explore some notable films that kick off with fascinating introductions that set the stage for captivating stories.

Introduction with a Twist

The Fourth Kind (1974) set a somewhat misleading tone for its audience by proclaiming, “The story you are about to see is based on a true story,” only to revel in the fact that this is, in fact, a work of fiction. This technique can lead to frustration for those expecting a documentary, but it also serves to pique curiosity and maintain suspense. Ms. Milla Jovovich’s introduction as “herself” adds an extra layer of authenticity, though she does break the fourth wall with a disclaimer aimed at protecting the innocent.

Another film that begins with a similar disclaimer is The Hunt for Red October. The opening text sets the stage by stating, “but according to repeated statements by both Soviet and American governments, nothing of what you are about to see… ever happened.” This approach effectively shifts the audience’s expectations and draws them into a fictional narrative, while still maintaining a sense of realism.

Mastering Suspense: Hitchcock’s The Wrong Man

A standout film in the genre of intriguing introductions is The Wrong Man; Alfred Hitchcock’s lesser-known but no less compelling thriller. Opening with a spotlight shining on Alfred Hitchcock himself, the film introduces a monologue that perfectly sets the tone for the following narrative. Hitchcock speaks with his customary drolly delivery, setting up the story as a serious and introspective exploration of a man’s life and reputation.

Hitchcock knew how to play with the minds of his audience. This introduction is one of his ultimate tricks, preparing the audience for a story that is both philosophical and emotionally resonant. The Wrong Man is a film that is unique in its approach, with no flashy colors, perfect crimes, or suave protagonists running from nefarious baddies. Instead, it takes a darker, more grounded look at a man's life as he is falsely accused and how this accusation reshapes his life and self-perception.

Additional Examples

Another film that employs a similar opening technique is Fargo. Known for its co-directors the Coen brothers, their film starts with a provocative disclaimer: “The story you are about to see is true, with only a few exceptions.” This basic line immediately engages viewers, not in suspense, but in a different kind of suspense—one that is built on the knowledge that the story is real, and thus, every character, plot point, and action carries weight and truth.

Conclusion

Whether starting with a twist, a historical disclaimer, or a personal introduction, films that open with an intriguing premise set the stage for captivating narratives. From The Wrong Man to Fargo and beyond, these introductions are a testament to the power of words and the art of storytelling. As an SEOer, distilling these engaging introductions into keywords like “movie introductions,” “movie starts,” and “intriguing introductions” can help these films attract the right audience and stand out in a crowded industry.