Research Task 4 Purpose of Title Sequence

There are many purposes of a title sequence/opening. Conventions of title sequences in films are all quite similar, they may differentiate because of factors such as genre.

What title sequences typically consist of:

• Idents, which show the distribution and production companies the film is associated with. Distribution companies are those who get the film out to as many viewers as possible
• Actors/Actresses who play the characters in the film. Their name will be displayed clearly,  but usually the most important characters who have the most screen time. By promoting the actors/actresses this will attract a bigger audience, especially if the actors/actresses have a huge fan base which will guarantee more money, a higher rating and a bigger audience. Or new actors that are on the rise can gain more fame by this type of promotion, this is how successful actors/actresses are made in the industry, by promoting their name. In addition to this their are credits, which helps the audience identify which actors/actresses played a particular role.
• The setting and the location of the film. Like the time era that the film is set in, to make it clear to the audience to avoid confusion.
• The title of the film, this is possibly the most important feature of a title sequence as the audience needs to be aware of the name of the film they are watching. For obvious reasons like, to identify the film so it can be spread to a larger audience.
• Soundtrack, music/sound playing in the background of a film to set the atmosphere or tone of the film, so the audience can be clear of what type of film it is they are watching. For example, a horror movie might have harsh music in the background of the title sequence, which is music that can be clearly identified with the genre.
• Some title sequences immediately set up the plot of the film, they may be because they want the plot to be obvious to the audience.

There are many small details that make up a title sequence. When watching a film the audience tries to understand the theme and plot. They do this by taking in the type of colours used, or the lighting, or the props in the title sequences and much more. This is so they can understand what the film is about.

1. To entice the audience
2. To set the tone and atmosphere. Also to introduce the genre
3. To include the credits of who owns the film and the people involved in the making of the film. (Producers/Directors etc.)
4. To introduce the characters

Things that may be included in a title sequence:

1. Credits
2. Name of the actors
3. The producers/directors
4. Setting the scene
5. Introduction of the characters
6. Idents of the production companies
7. Diaquetic and non diaquetic soundtrack

Out of the four title sequences we reviewed, Skyfall was the most effective because the plot was clear and their was alot of clear visuals. Also the idents were fully included.