La Haine intro

The first shot seen by the viewer is a petrol bomb being thrown at an image of the earth. Kassovitz has done this to visually signify that we as the viewer, are about to enter a different world, that filled with chaos. The use of the petrol also indicates primary weapon used by rioters and an introduction to the riots themselves. La Haines opening sequence first of provides an insight into French riots. Using actual footage from Paris Riots, Kassovitz use of this provides the film with a realistic viewing and grounds the film in reality. This is also done prior to showing any actual footage, as he states he dedicated the film to all those who died during the riots. This once again gives a realistic approach and feel to the film, as well as a reminder that these things are happening in Paris and that people are suffering. The use of "Burning and Looting Tonight” is another way in which Kassovitz shows the audience of what happens during these riots. The lyrics reflect both of what is happening on screen, and the feelings of many of the suburban youths. Lines such as How many rivers do we have to cross, before we can talk to the boss, shows a syndication that this is not the first time this has happened, it's a constant thing along with the frustration of the French urban culture and is a question asking what they must have to do in order to get the attention of the world, what does it take for the message to get across that they are not happy with the way the country is being run and that the French society is not working. Another set of lyrics used is burning all illusion tonight, i.e. burning the illusion of Paris as the city of love, that it's a city of violence and hate, far from city of love. The uniforms of brutality is an reference to the Paris police, as well as Kassovitz trying to get u to subconsciously think that these police are the enemy, only showing us the police, from his one sided perspective. He does this in order to get the audience to empathise with the suburban youths. Bob Marley’ music also helps Kassovitz get the message of positive rebelling across, as Bob Marley is seen to have a massive influence across causes and is seen as rebel fighting for the right thing. As the documentary footage shifts towards news reading this is where the film actually begins to come into it, as opposed to the actual footage of the riots. Kassovitz has does this very subtly in order to keep the audience thinking this is still a sort of documentary they are watching and not a film. This also subtly makes the audience believe or continue to think in-depth that these things are continuing to happen.