First Blog Post: Opening Sequences

Opening Sequences

What is the purpose of opening credits?

Opening credits are shown at the very beginning of the film/television show/video game and aim to list (show) the most important members of the production, e.g the lead actors, actresses, director, producer, etc. It establishes the people who contributed the most to making the media product to give them credit on the production.

What is the difference between opening credits and title sequence?

Opening credits and Title sequences differ in the fact that title sequences are detached from the main action of the film but, opening credits are apart of the main action of the film. Two examples of title sequences are Divergent and The Breakfast Club. In both these films the credits are clearly separate from the actual action of the film and both rather take place before the plot begins but can include the setting (e.g. Divergent).

What techniques can be employed in an opening sequence?

An opening sequences can include many different techniques. One of the commonly used effects is to mix a range of sounds (including both diegetic and non-diegetic), animations, camera shots and editing to create an original opening along side the actual opening credits. This makes the opening credit much more enjoyable for views to watch. An example of a film using non-diegetic sound and animation for their opening credits would be the film Monsters Ink. Monsters Ink is an animation film made for children so the opening credits have to be especially creative to capture the children's attention. The first 60 seconds of the Monsters Ink opening features a catchy tune at which the animated opening credits appear creatively to and in time with the music. An example of a film using both non-diegetic and diegetic sounds as well as interesting camera shots is Mean Girls. Mean Girls has a different audience target than Monsters Ink so the techniques would also be different. By mixing both sound effects, using minimal editing for the actual listing of the names of the sequence and using interesting camera work the opening sequence can be seen is awkward which is fitting to the film. Other creative techniques can also be applied to an opening sequence. Opening sequences that employ creative techniques are usually looking to make their film be more mysterious and or abstract to better their production. An example of an abstract opening would be Skyfall. Skyfall uses both animation and a form of actual film footage as well as a diegetic sound track. It also does not establish setting. The effect of this abstract opening sequence is that it makes the film seem  almost spooky- which is an effect wanted to be achieved by most thiller/action films.