Blog Task 6: 4 Types of Film Openings

Title sequences have evolved massively over the past years in response to the institutional information needed, whether or not it needs to introduce or clarify later themes in the film and as a result of development in technology.  

How many categories of title sequences can be identified? 

4 main categories to focus on 

Titles on a blank screen 

→ Historically the most common 

→ Some studios use them because they are of low budget 

→ They offer an uncomplicated way of including all relevant institutional information  

→ Typically, white font is used on a black background to create contrast

Example 1: Pulp Fiction 

This title sequence begins with a few seconds of action in which a man and woman are holding up guns and shouting. Immediately this grabs the attention of the audience, and also gives the audience a chance to read the titles as there is nothing else to focus on. The credits are presented with 'Pump it' by Black Eyed Peas and is fast and catchy, unlike the titles; this gives the idea that more can be expected from the film. The font is quite simple, yellow and white, introduced on a black blank screen. Although this is simple, the font colour contrasts against the black background and stands out. 

Example 2: Labyrinth 

The title sequence for labyrinth includes more visual effects, yet is still presented on a black screen. Owls are flying over the blank screen and at one point, as the bird flies across the screen, cast names are presented. The film title is a blue font which glows against the background, however the rest of the cast and crew are a plain turquoise colour; again this colour contrasts against the simplicity of the background. 

Titles on still images 

→ This type of opening allows an institution to incorporate different types of text on visual images to add an effect, and also to possibly hint at potential themes and genres for the film

Example: Wimbledon 

This title sequence is a mixture between still images and moving images; creating a more complex yet simple sequence. The sound effects, as well as the images, make it clear what exactly the film is about without actually saying so. 

Titles over moving images 

→ Moving images can serve as a way to introduce the theme or plot for the film and gives the audience a chance to make a judgement 

Example: Titanic 

There are many different examples of titles over moving images; Titanic is one example which presents a narrative sequence as well as titles over a moving image. It's obvious, from the opening sequence, that the film is retelling the story of the 'Titanic' and the music that accompanies this suggests a sad storyline and will potentially create an emotional response from the audience. 

Titles using animation or motion

→ Requires a good amount of digital technology, graphic effects and stylized editing

Example: Catch Me If You Can

This film opening is full animation and is quite mysterious, leading the audience to guess what's going to happen and jump to their own conclusions.