10 Most Intense Movie Openings Ever

Danny Boyle's Trainspotting boasts one of the most iconic and unforgettable opening scenes of all time, and though not quite as outwardly grim as many other entries on this list, is no less intense.

Boyle's Edinburgh-set addiction drama kicks off with protagonist Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) and his pal Spud (Ewen Bremner) running down Princes Street while being chased by security guards for shoplifting.

Set to Iggy Pop's anthemic "Lust for Life," the scene is nevertheless best remembered for Renton's mesmeric "Choose life" monologue, where he nihilistically outlines his disinterest in humdrum middle-class existence, contrasted with his decision to instead embrace heroin.

It couldn't be counter to what audiences typically expect from an addition drama, opening with a practically euphoric mission statement for what drug addicts are seeking - an escape from the tedium of buttoned-down life.

It may not feature zombies or mutants, but Trainspotting's opening is no less pulse-pounding or existentially terrifying.