Title Sequence Research

A Title Sequence is often found at the start of a film or television show, and allows the production company to present the key production, title and cast members to their audience while simultaneously building the atmosphere of the film to follow. This usually involves conceptual imagery and sound relating to the plot and film genre, which can in turn be used to get across certain messages and information to the audience that introduce them to the storyline.

Audiences often expect a number of things when viewing a title sequence. These include:

The Title Sequence of Psycho (1960).

• The film title.
• The main mise-en-scene theme in order to set up the atmosphere.
• Appropriate music or sound.
• The names of (some) of the companies involved in the film's production.
• Conceptual cinematography.
• The names of the main cast and crew.
• The main character(s) to be introduced.

Generally, there are 4 main types of title sequences that are used in films. These include:

• A narrative title sequence follows a micro story line or series of connected events relevant to the rest of the film in order to draw the audience in. The Shining (1980) is a good example of a narrative film opening (seen right). This particular sequence establishes the setting via numerous extreme long shots of a car from a helicopter. Framing is very wide and loose, creating a sense of isolation (which is effective given the context of the film). These shots also create the impression of a bird of prey, i.e. the occupants of the car are in danger and are being pursued.

• A discrete title sequence is intended to look as though it is a prelim of the film, giving out very little information but presenting several 'discrete' clues that allow the audience to decipher out what is to come for themselves. An example of this type of title sequence is Se7en (1995) (seen right). This title sequence is composed of a montage of some rather eerie shots; creating some disturbing connotations. It helps the viewer to delve into the atmosphere of the film and is prepared for what is to come.

• Sometimes, a title sequence of a film may simply be credits over the screen. This could be over certain shots, or over a black screen. An example of this is the title sequence of Donnie Darko (2001) (seen right). In this type of title sequence, films make use of sound and font (rather than visuals) to establish the mood of the film. The sounds heard in the Donnie Darko title sequence are effective in creating a rather suspenseful atmosphere.

• A title sequence may make use of heavily stylised editing.  This means that it involves frequent use of visual effects in order to immediately capture the audiences attention. An example of this in practice is the title sequence of Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008) (seen right). The split screen effect presents the same scene from a variety different angles. This creates the impression that the character is being observed from numerous locations, which helps to create suspense when coupled together with the music.