The opening sequence of “House of Flying Daggers” uses elaborate sets and costumes and colourful frames to create a sense of grandeur and to immerse the audience into the world of the story.

The title sequence right at the start of the scene introduces the tone of the film with its ancient style and creative aesthetic. This is contrasted with the seemingly dull and unenergetic first scene with Jin and Leo. However, this introduction to the characters helps us as an audience to get a grasp on their attitudes. We see that Jin is slouching and relaxed, showing that he will be a more layed back and fun character who breaks rules. Whereas Leo is sat upright, alert and ready while sharpening his sword. This reveals to the audience that he will be much more regimented and strict, following the rules and doing his duty. This scene is important because despite this closed feeling to the set, it is still well decorated and presented. The camera stays in mostly the same fixed position in this scene. The dark colour palette in this scene serves as a contrast to the next scene.

Immediately following this scene, we get introduced to the interior of the Peony Pavilion, which is a very elaborate and intricate set. The lighting in this scene is dramatically different to the previous scene. Jin is introduced to us as a drunk and a womaniser. He seems nasty to us initially.