(1978) John Carpenter
PRODUCED BY: Compass International Pictures, Falcon International Productions
DISTRIBUTED BY: Compass International Pictures, Mid-America Releasing (US), Miracle Films (UK) (full list)
BUDGET: $320k
BOX OFFICE: $47m US, $60m Worldwide
RATINGS: IMDB 7.9
MY RATING:
WIKI, OFFICIAL SITE
After the opening title sequence, which, with its quick and unsettling pace, sets up the tone of the film, we fade straight in to simple white text on a black background. The font and use of captioning closely mimics that of 'Psycho', which was a key influence on director John Carpenter's work.
Exposition is provided, with the exact date, time and location appearing on screen. Given that the next sequence is almost entirely dialogue free, it's possible that these were added to avoid confusing the audience.
The use of a long camera shot and a low angle makes the house seem large and imposing, especially as its surroundings are completely devoid of any light - so the viewers eyes are naturally drawn to it.
Shaky, hand-held camera work signifies a point-of-view shot, that we are looking through the eyes of an unseen character. 
The carved pumpking acts as a form of continuity with the opening sequence, as well as the more obvious connotations with Halloween itself.
We have a typical teenage couple 
The light being switched out in the bedroom marks the first appearance of non-diagetic sound in the opening, and acts as a signifier to the audience. Up to this point, the film has been in a state of equilibrium, the change in the score coupled with the slight dutch angle here suggests this is about to change.
The camera moves through the house, and we are given hints as to the identity of the character whose POV we are seeing. We look at the sofa where the couple were earlier, suggesting that they are the target.
Our character is cautious to approach the boyfriend, who leaves the house. A comment on gender roles; males are typically seen as tougher than females and more likely to put up a fight in response, which could explain why he isn't targeted.
The selection of the mask has the immediate effect of creating claustraphobia for the audience, as we see even less of the surrounding area with it on. The mask is also a call forward to later in the film when an adult Michael wears another Halloween mask.
We get a brief look at the half-naked girl, suggesting vulnerability and weakness. The POV shot looks over at the recently vacated bed; connotations are that the about to be committed murder is related to sexual activity.
The murder itself is mostly inferred rather than show, screams from the girl, sound effects and the score reaching a crescendo provide most of the scenes tension and horror; the quickly moving POV and a final shot of the girl's blood covered body confirm what we have half-seen.
The reveal of the killer is a shock for the audience, although the low camera angles throughout the opening have hinted at it.
The panning out of the camera to a similar shot as the one that opened the film, takes the opening full circle and effectively brings it to a close. 
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