Genre Conventions of ‘The Grudge’ Opening Scene

The scene opens with a dystopian looking mise-en-scene. Whilst the establishing shots aren’t typical of the horror genre, the sinister and eery music is still playing. This reminds the viewer of the genre. The female character seems quite fearful, suggesting she could be a victim. The diegetic sound of the signal in the phone making a static noise connotes that there is interference with someone or something.

An over the shoulder shot is used to connote that someone could be watching/stalking her.

A close up shot is used on the female character for the viewer to see the reaction of fear when discovering the plastic bag. (Silence is being used here).

The dramatic irony is used as a sinister/horrifying figure appears behind the female.

There is a non-diegetic death rattle sound effect which could be used to foreshadow the horrifying events to follow.

The music playing changes to a more dramatic beat which could resemble a heartbeat. This adds tension to the scene.

The establishing shot of the house with the dark balcony creates a spooky mise-en-scene as it is companied by the sinister/eerie music.