Why Steven Spielberg Began Saving Private Ryan with a Cemetery Scene and Its Impact
Why Steven Spielberg Began 'Saving Private Ryan' with a Cemetery Scene and Its Impact
When Steven Spielberg unveiled 'Saving Private Ryan' at the Kennedys' Plaza in Washington, DC, the opening scene set in a cemetery served as a powerful and prophetic introduction to the powerful film that followed. The choice to begin with a cemetery scene is a masterstroke of narrative and filmmaking techniques, setting the tone for the entire movie and providing a poignant context for the story to unfold. This article explores the significance of this opening scene and how it served the film's narrative.
The Setting of the Cemetery Scene
The opening scene in 'Saving Private Ryan' is set in the Normandy War Cemetery, a hallowed ground where American soldiers who died during the D-Day invasion are buried. The scene depicts a private soldier visiting the cemetery, reflecting on the fallen heroes and the lives that were lost in the Battle of Normandy. This opening immediately immerses the audience in a somber and emotional atmosphere, setting the scene for the film's exploration of the war's personal impact.
Significance Beyond the Plot
The cemetery scene serves multiple purposes beyond merely introducing the protagonist. It:
Mechanically Grounds the Story: Placing the story in a real historical setting gives it an authenticity and depth that a fictional setting cannot match. Symbolically Speaks for the Undying Spirit of the Fallen: By having a character visit and reflect on the cemetery, Spielberg pays homage to the sacrifices made during the war. Emotionally Engages the Audience: The somber and reflective tone of the scene connects with the audience on an emotional level, setting the tone for the emotional weight that follows.Effective Use of Cuba Gooding Jr.
The use of Cuba Gooding Jr. in the opening scene as the unnamed Private Ryan is another strategic choice by Steven Spielberg. As the aging veteran visits the cemetery, the audience sees a young Private Ryan, providing a clear connection to the character that will develop over the course of the film. This technique:
Illuminates Character Development: It shows how the young private developed into the older man, adding layers of depth to the narrative. Highlights the Patriotic Theme: It emphasizes the notion of honoring fallen soldiers and the duty of those who returned to carry on their name.Narrative Structure and Building Suspense
The cemetery scene also plays a crucial role in the film's narrative structure and building of suspense. By setting the first scene in a cemetery, Spielberg immediately introduces the theme of sacrifice and loss, which is central to the film. This thematic setup:
Establishes the Tone: The somber and reflective tone mirrors the gravity of the war and the challenges the characters will face. Builds Anticipation: The scene creates a sense of foreboding, hinting at the danger and excitement to come in the main part of the film.Techniques and Impact of the Opening Scene
To craft the opening scene effectively, Spielberg and his crew employed several techniques to create a moving and impactful scene:
Immersive Cinematography
The use of wide shots and tight close-ups in the cemetery scene helps to create a sense of immersion. Wide shots capture the vast expanse of the cemetery, emphasizing the scale of the war and the numerous lives lost. Close-ups of Private Ryan visiting the tombstones bring attention to the emotion of his reflections and the names of fallen soldiers, adding a personal touch to the scene.
Thematic Consistency
By opening the film with a visit to a cemetery, Spielberg sets a thematic tone for the entire movie. Themes of sacrifice, loss, and honor are introduced early, laying the groundwork for the narrative to follow. This thematic consistency helps to unify the film and reinforce its core messages.
Emotional Power
The cemetery scene is designed to elicit an emotional response from the audience. Through the reflective facial expressions and the somber setting, the scene conveys the weight of the war and the personal stories it encompasses. This emotional engagement is crucial for drawing the viewers into the film and maintaining their interest throughout its runtime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the opening scene in 'Saving Private Ryan' set in a cemetery is not merely a stylistic choice but a deliberate strategy to enhance the film's narrative and emotional impact. By using a cemetery as the setting and employing effective techniques like immersive cinematography and thematic consistency, Steven Spielberg masterfully sets the stage for the weighty and emotional journey that follows. The scene serves as a powerful introduction, one that not only introduces the protagonist but also provides a rich context for understanding the film's themes and characters.