10 Great Cinema Opening Sequences

This spectacular re-creation of the assault on the Omaha beach on D-Day is a gripping and frightening vision of war. Spielberg excelled in this shot and the rest of the movie had difficulty keeping up to the spectacle that was this sequence.

Pulp Fiction

Although not the true first sequence (honeybunny scene in coffee shop is first), this sequence introduces John Travolta and Samuel Jacksons characters with some excellent dialogue followed by the Samuel Jackson bible reading breakfast scene. You really have to be in awe of Quentin Tarantinos writing for this sequence.

Raiders of the Lost Ark

What an introduction to one of the most beloved heroes in cinema. Spielberg quickly handles the idea that “swashbuckling” and “archeologist” can go together with ease. This sequence introduces the hero, the bad guy and sets the tone for the entire movie, simply superb storytelling.

The Godfather

Spectacular opening scene to set the tone for this landmark film. Marlon Brando is fantastic with superb direction from Francis Ford Copola

Star Wars: A New Hope

There was something as a kid seeing that star destroyer take over the screen – such scale!

Reservoir Dogs

Quentin Tarantino knows how to start a movie and write dialogue among other things. Both are clearly demonstrated in this scene.

The Usual Suspects

An excellent introduction to the audience for this throwback, film-noir crime thriller. Sets the tone beautifully.

Casino Royale

A fantastic reintroduction for James Bond. The series was becoming stale and very guilty of self parody. This reboot gives us a new feel for the famed English spy. Gritty and dark.

Goodfellas

Quite an introduction to the personalities of the characters in the film.

2001: A Space Odyssey

Ahead of its time and totally compelling and thought provoking. This long intro sets us up for this Stanley Kubrick masterpiece.