10 Unforgettable Opening Scenes in Cinematic History

Written by Matt Nelson & Likewise Pix | May 24, 2024

If there's one thing that can set the tone for an entire movie, it's the opening scene. Over the years, filmmakers have mastered the art of capturing viewers' attention from the very first glance. Let’s explore some of the most unforgettable opening scenes in cinematic history, moments that have left indelible imprints on our minds and raised the bar for what follows.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Steven Spielberg's "Saving Private Ryan" opens with an intense, harrowing depiction of the D-Day invasion of Normandy. Gritty, raw, and brutal, this scene thrusts audiences into the chaos and horror of war. As U.S. troops storm the beaches, the camera captures the confusion and the courage amidst the bloodshed. Captain John Miller, played by Tom Hanks, leads his men through this nightmarish landscape, setting a powerful tone for the mission to find and bring home Private James Ryan.

The Dark Knight (2008)

Christopher Nolan’s "The Dark Knight" begins with a heist that is slick, sophisticated, and suspenseful. A group of masked criminals led by the menacing Joker, played masterfully by Heath Ledger, robs a bank. The opening sequence is a brilliant setup for the chaos and psychological depth that The Joker brings to Gotham City. With tension-building narrative and flawless execution, this opening scene hooks the audience right from the start.

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Quentin Tarantino’s "Inglourious Basterds" sets off with a gripping and tense interaction between SS Colonel Hans Landa and a French dairy farmer. The eerie calmness of Landa, contrasted with the underlying tension of the impending doom, makes for a scene that is both chilling and memorable. This opening not only lays the groundwork for the hard-hitting narrative but also showcases Christoph Waltz's Oscar-winning performance.

Jaws (1975)

The opening scene of Steven Spielberg’s "Jaws" is a masterclass in building suspense. A peaceful nighttime swim quickly turns into a nightmare as a young woman is attacked by an unseen underwater predator. The combination of John Williams' iconic score and the horrifying simplicity of the attack establishes the sense of dread that haunts the small town of Amity throughout the film. This opening is not only chilling but a brilliant setup for the terror that follows.

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

In "Raiders of the Lost Ark," the first sight of Indiana Jones, played by Harrison Ford, is as thrilling as it is iconic. We follow Indy into a booby-trapped temple, culminating in the legendary scene where he must outrun a giant rolling boulder. This exhilarating start captures the essence of adventure, setting a high-octane tone for the rest of the movie and firmly establishing Indiana Jones as a beloved action hero.

Scream (1996)

Wes Craven's "Scream" opens with a nerve-wracking game of cat and mouse as Drew Barrymore's character receives a chilling phone call. What starts as a simple prank escalates into a horrifying murder. This scene not only shocks but also effectively sets up the meta-horror tone that "Scream" is famous for, playing with genre conventions and keeping the audience on edge throughout the film.

Blade Runner (1982)

Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner" thrusts viewers into the dystopian future of 2019 with a visually stunning and atmospheric introduction. The cityscape of Los Angeles, drenched in neon lights and perpetual rain, sets the tone for the film’s exploration of humanity, technology, and existentialism. The opening scene's dark, moody aesthetic is a perfect prelude to the film's philosophical depth.

The Lion King (1994)

Disney's "The Lion King" opens with the majestic "Circle of Life" sequence. This breathtaking scene, set against the backdrop of the Pride Lands of Africa, showcases the birth of Simba, the future king. The powerful visuals, combined with the inspiring music, create an opening that is both epic and emotional, setting the stage for Simba’s journey of self-discovery and destiny.

The Godfather (1972)

Francis Ford Coppola’s "The Godfather" begins with a somber, slow-burning celebration—the wedding of Vito Corleone’s daughter. As the Don conducts business in his dimly lit office, the juxtaposition between the joyous occasion outside and the sinister dealings inside introduces us to the complex world of the Corleone crime family. This opening is a perfect example of masterful storytelling, setting the stage for the epic saga to come.

Star Wars (1977)

George Lucas’s "Star Wars" opened with a Star Destroyer chasing a Rebel ship, a sequence that has since become iconic. The vastness of space, the grandeur of the ships, and the immediate tension of battle drew viewers into a galaxy far, far away. This opening firmly establishes the epic scope and inventive spirit of the saga, capturing the imagination of audiences and paving the way for an entirely new universe.

These unforgettable opening scenes are just a few examples of how powerful the beginning of a movie can be. They set the tone, establish key characters, and immerse audiences in the story, ensuring that what follows is even more deeply felt. Each scene is a testament to the art of filmmaking, showcasing the unique vision and creativity of the directors and their teams.