Opening Sequence in The Avengers

Opening Sequence in The Avengers

1. How does the music style suggest what genre the show is?

The tense, slow start that turns to fast and vibrant represents the character of Emma Peel and suggests the show will be unexpected and full of mysteries.  

2. What does the typography of the graphics suggest about the show's era?

The quick and basic transitions shows how old and dated the show was as there was not much editing like there would be in a modern day tv show intro.

3. Explain how Patrick Macnee's character is represented via costume, props and facial expression.

 Patrick Macnee's character is represented as being a stereotypical 'gentleman' from the sixties. This because he is giving Emma Peel a flower, and then gives her a flirtatious look. His outfit is a smart suit which suggests he is wealthy.

4. How is the flower prop used to link the two characters together?

 He takes the flower off of his jacket and gives it to her. This shows the gender inequality at the time as he is male dominant.

5. Explain how Diana Rigg's character is represented via costume, props and facial expression.

 Emma Peel is wearing a leather bodysuit which counteracts the typical female stereotype of trying to look cute and innocent as it is sexual and attracts male attention to it, however towards the end, her outfit changes to a frilly dress which makes her conform to this stereotype, as well as the fact that she smiles innocently whilst smelling the flower.

6. What does the term 'teleplay' mean or what is the modern terminology? Why do you think The Avengers is called this?

 Teleplay is: a play written or adapted for television/a screenplay for a television drama.

7. How is editing linked to the music?

 The music is parallel to what is happening on the screen. For example, at the beginning when the character John Steed is giving Emma Peel the flower, the music is calm and slow. But towards the end when the characters are shown to be fighting something, the music speeds up and becomes more dramatic.

8. How are the use of props and body language used to present the characters towards the end and what are the audience expectations of the show as a result?

Both characters are bending down, in fighting positions and are holding weapons, which can give the viewers an idea of the kind of thing that would happen in the programme.