First Impressions

The first three minutes of the film, Amélie provide the first impressions that set up expectations for the rest of the film. It involves random, quirky occurrences throughout the city of Paris, one of which is the moment at which Amelie is conceived. The conception and birth of Amelie demonstrate the lack of parental closeness or involvement in Amelie’s youth while growing up. As a child she resorts to solitary games, hinting at her future shyness resulting from solitude during her youth. The first three minutes set up the storyline and characteristics of Amelie in what is to come.

First impressions are important not only in relationships with other people, but also with subjects involved with design, like film, websites, and wayfinding signs. Signs that direct people to desired destinations must be designed in clear and concise ways in which the person can look at it and immediately know its meaning. Stop signs, street signs, exit signs, and maps are all designed in ways that leave good first impressions—impressions that help people find their way or understand rules. Additionally, first impressions are especially important in logo designs. Designers must be aware of designs that visually entice the customer just by looking at the logo of the product. If this logo is made well, the customer will be intrigued into purchasing the product. If the logo is not made well, the product will most likely fail. Thus, first impressions are important in all aspects of life, including design.