I have chosen to reflect on the two versions of the opening sequence of A Model Son. The first sequence is very high energy. It depicts the model life as flashy and subsequently, with no flaws. This however, detracts from the high stakes involved in pursuing a career in modelling. In particular, Kevin’s story is ingrained with combatting adversary. As this became the aim of not only the sequence but the entire documentary, it was necessary to change the sequence to reflect this. Therefore, through making the first version, we were able to recognise what worked and what needed to change in order to finalise the opening sequence.

Kevin is presented as a mysterious man in both versions of the sequence. This was a good starting point for editing the opening sequence as the viewer is left wondering who the man is and in turn, what we will learn about him. Whilst this was a strength of both, the way we chose to present this in the first version was too enigmatic. The reason being that it was extremely short. Whilst we see a mysterious figure who is having their photo taken, we don’t know where he is and if he is a model or not. Therefore, a weakness of the first version is that it lacks establishing shots. Furthermore, the stylistic editing choices were too upbeat and so, conflicted with our aims to instil a sense of mystery. We wanted the opening sequence to indicate that the story could go either way rather than be destined to be an upbeat documentary.

Therefore, the second version included establishing shots of the photoshoot as well as a more plentiful selection of mysterious shots of Kevin. I’m particularly fond of the shots of the ferris wheel and so I think that that strengthens the opening sequence as it is visually appearing. Furthermore, the sound of the camera clicking was timed with each shot. This rhythm allows the viewer to expect something more and keep their attention on the documentary. As for weaknesses, I think that there could have been more variety in shots. For example, rather than us always spectating Kevin, there could have been shots from his or the photographers perspective in order to immerse the viewer further into the world of modelling.