Boogie Nights opening scene analysis

Analysis of Narrative:

The narrative engages the audience during the first 5 minutes of 'Boogie Nights' with a range of media techniques and theory's. The first method used is a constantly moving/running camera shot that follows the intro as the action unfolds to the audience. This helps the audience pick out main characters as the camera follows them for a longer length of time rather than just scanning past them, for example the waitress on roller skates is followed on her way to the bathroom, this suggests to the audience that she will play a main role in the film. Using propp's theory we can assume that she will be the 'Princess' as she is young and appears vulnerable, as she needs to receive permission in order to go to the bathroom. 

Other uses of camera include the camera shots, such as over the shoulder, this engages the audience by giving them the ability to view the scene as though they are there. Developing the use of mise-en-scene, and combining with the use of camera shots, from how certain characters are dressed we can determine the role which they will play in the film; the lady and gentleman that first enter the club are dressed both smart and glamorous  suggesting a powerful and respectful role. If we use this idea with the focus and mid-shots of both the smartly dressed gentleman and the younger man towards the end gives the audience a sense of a 'hero' and 'donor' character being created.

Representation of Women:

Women are shown in the opening scene of Boogie Nights through 'the male gaze', having them dressed in revealing clothes and with the one woman having her arm linked through with her male partner. The first woman shown is both sexy and feminine whereas the second woman shown is younger and more vulnerable.  The women are slightly objectified in this opening shown by how the owner of the club refers to her as the "sexiest b**ch" in the club, however, she still holds a power over the men by how dismissive she is of his comment as though she didn't need to be told- or at least not in that way. Another main example of how women are represented is that the woman orders her own drink, this is a clear indication at how the roles of women had changed in the 70's.
To view click:  Link to opening scene