Enigma Code

The Enigma Code, also known as Hermeneutic Code, is a media theory that my partner and I would like to incorporate into our film opening. This theory is seen when the narrative withholds information to create mystery or leave a part of the plot without explanation.

Many drama film openings incorporate this theory as a hook to keep audiences engaged. It poses a question that audiences must get an answer to.

We plan on incorporating this into our film opening with the anonymous caller that asks the protagonist if they would like to participate in the risky game to win some money. This allows us to develop a sense of mystery since audiences will not know who the caller is. In our case, the question readers will need an answer to is: who is the anonymous caller?

Enigma Code in Other Films

Let's explore the Enigma Code in some other films!

Scream (1996) uses this code similar to how we plan on using it. The woman answered the phone an anonymous man was on the line. Audiences did not know who he was or why he was calling. Later, his dangerous intentions were clear as he continued calling, his voice became more aggressive, and the woman had visible fear in her face. The man's voice sounded very deep with a slight hint of a voice changer on it. Not knowing who the caller is and whether or not we are hearing their real voice develops mystery. 

Se7en (1995) incorporates the Enigma Code by only showing close-ups of the character's hands performing some task in the film opening. This makes readers question who he is and what the purpose of his actions are. Thus, developing mystery as audiences are posed a question which they need an answer to.

Enigma Code in Other Films

I like the idea of a deep voice with a voice changer used on the anonymous caller. A low voice adds mystery by creating a sense of darkness that a high-pitched voice cannot create. A voice changer adds mystery by leaving a characteristic about the caller unknown and makes it harder to figure out who they are.

I also like how Se7en did not show who the character was by only showing their hand. My film opening can benefit from this. Not giving a glimpse of the caller in our film opening can add mystery by this because it makes it harder for audiences to decipher who they are. 

Sources:

 -Study Rocket. (n.d.). Use of action and enigma codes (Barthes). https://studyrocket.co.uk/revision/a-level-media-studies-eduqas/media-language/use-of-action-and-enigma-codes-barthes

- Da Bang. (n.d.). Da Bang SCREAM movie poster horror Wes Craven 24×36 inch [Product page]. Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Bang-SCREAM-Poster-Horror-24x36inch/dp/B019P1IFW4

- WestCoastPrintz. (n.d.). Seven (Se7en) movie poster | 1995 | 11×17 | NEW | USA [Product listing]. eBay. https://www.ebay.com/itm/166114277129