Title sequence research

Title Sequences

A title sequence is used to present a films title, key production and cast members, applying visual effects and sound. It typically begins the opening credits, and helps establish the setting and tone of the film. It may consist of live action, animation, music, still images, or graphics. When title sequences first came about, simple title cards were used to begin and end silent film presentations in order to identify both the film and the production company involved, also they were a way of showing the audience the film had started. In the late 80’s and early 90’s the introduction of digital technologies to film changed the industry leading to a resurgence in title design, with David Fincher’s Seven having one of the most iconic title sequences of that decade.  

A title sequence gives the audience clues and an idea of what is going to happen in the film including fast cuts between shots so that it doesn’t give too much away. Using fast cuts gets the audience excited, focused and drawn into the film as they want to know what happens next. This is why the title sequence of a film is very important, especially with the opening credits as it crafts an image of what the film is going to be like for the people viewing it. Music has to be used very carefully too in the title sequence,as it creates a certain mood and sets the scene. For our thriller we will use dark and gloomy music and make sure we have permisssion to use it in the sequence. There is often a lot of text shown in the title sequence too, including who the production company is, who created the film, actors, title of the film, casting director, costume designer, producer, director, and many more, but although we are a small team of people there wont be as many names/roles to include in the credits. The title sequence is usually the first thing you see so you have to blow the audience away and consider every aspect of it including the font. The typography used needs to reflect the films feel and genre, not be too complicated, or use a tacky font, as the font used brands your film so is extremely important.

I think the title sequence used or our film needs to be quite simple and use effects and images to give the audience a clue on the genre of our film, somehow including a forest/woods shot to hint at the setting. The music will need to be suspenseful and eery to impact the viewers and make them feel scared.