Final answer:
The tone of 'Casablanca' is established in the initial scenes through suspenseful music, the heroine's troubled expression, and dialogue that hints at the upcoming conflict, demonstrating how music is integral in setting a film's mood.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tone of Casablanca, directed by Michael Curtiz and released by Warner Brothers in 1942, is established in the first few minutes through a combination of visual elements, music, and dialogue. The ominous music playing in a minor key, combined with the heroine's grim expression, suggests a sense of impending danger and sets a somber and suspenseful mood. The music intensifies as a man approaches, heightening the tension and alerting viewers to the significance of this encounter. This approach to storytelling, which taps into the evocative power of soundtrack alongside narrative elements, reflects the way film-making evolved during the early 20th century, capturing viewers' emotions and immersing them in the atmosphere of the story.
Furthermore, the dialogue in these opening scenes offers clarity regarding the plot and helps set expectations for the conflict to unfold. This technique underscores the critical role that soundtracks play in shaping a film's atmosphere, which can be seen when imagining the same visuals set to different music - changing the mood from one of peril to one of potential joy. This underscores the broader principle that music is a cultural universal, capable of conveying complex emotions and themes across different narrative mediums.