Detailed analysis of “The Big Sleep” opening scene:

The first shot shows a large wooden door. The shot is in shallow focus and draws attention to the a plaque bearing the name “Sternwood”. The door is of heavy wood and the lettering suggests that its owner is of high class. We see a shadow cast across the door, half covering the sign bearing the name “Sternwood” This could be use of subtle foreshadowing to suggest that something dark will happen within the film concerning the family. The fact that the character’s shadow is seen first may also suggest to the audience that the character that is approaching is somewhat shady or dark. This is generally a key characteristic In an “anti-hero”, a flawed central hero- a classic element of film noir. The characters identity is not revealed until shortly after this, this adds to an air of mystery along with the non-diegetic theme music- (a dramatic strings track). This element of mystery is also frequently found in films of the film noir genre. Characters hand reaches to the doorbell and rings. We see a butler hurry towards the door and open it. We hear the callers voice but he is still not in the field of vision. This further adds to the veil of mystery within the film. The character introduces himself as Marlowe and that a General Sternwood wants to see him. The butler invites him in and as he steps aside, Marlowe is seen in full view for the first time. A long shot shows him enter the hall. Deep focus shows Marlowe pass by the butler who closes the door behind him and walks past him again asking him to wait a moment. The interior of the room is very posh. It is obvious from the furnishings that the houses owner is very rich. Again dealings with the affairs of the upper class are frequently mentioned in film noir. Marlowe inspects his surroundings this action instantly shows him as an inquisitive character as his fist action is to examine his new environment. The camera switches to follow the butler as he leaves the room and a female character dressed in skimpy sportswear comes down a large wooden staircase. A long shot allows the audience to see her whole body. This is prominent because her revealing clothing primarily identifies her to the audience as a femme fatale archetype. This, noticing Marlowe’s presence she holds herself in a very flirtatious, feminine way and almost walks with a sort of strut and goes over to a table where she busies herself. As she enters the non-diegetic theme music changes to a slightly higher key. The camera switches again to Marlowe. It is obvious from the sound and as well as the actor’s expression that she has drawn his attention, as he looks her up and down, stricken by her beauty. He addresses her and she turns as if she had been waiting. An eye line match is used as she turns and there eyes meet. She proceeds to flirt with him teasing him about his height and name. Her behaviour is very forward and flirtatious. Very much typical of the femme fatale character. Another key part of film noir this interaction is shown with a series of two shots. Much of Marlow’s dialogue is delivered during an over the shoulder shot from behind the young woman the camera is at a slightly low angle. This could suggest that Marlowe is in control of her as a male or perhaps that he is the subject of her interest at this point in time. After teasing him more she pretends to walk away only to fall backwards into his arms. The music peaks again noting the peak of the sexual tension between the two characters and Marlowe’s shock and excitement. The camera switches again to show the butler.