Research into title sequences

Research into title sequences

A title sequences is the method used in cinematic films or television programs that allow the company to give credit to productions and cast members, or both, utilizing numerous visual and sound concepts in order to not bore the viewer but instead give them a deeper understanding of the genre of the film.

The  usual conventions for opening credits of motion pictures are shown at the beginning and list the most important members of the production they are now shown as the superimposed on a blank screen or static pictures and sometimes even on top of action occurring on screen. There may or may not be accompanying music. Title sequences are often confused with the opening credits, which is generally nothing more than just superimposed text.

In early forms of cinema, title sequences were often basic and were actually intended to signify both the beginning of the film itself and to state the production company involved. In silent cinema title cards were used throughout to convey dialogue and plot and it is in some of these early short films that we see the first examples of title sequences themselves, being quite literally a series of title cards shown at the beginning of a film. The introduction of sound within cinema initially did little to change this, although the addition of music to these title sequences made it more entertaining for the audience.



An example of the early forms of title sequences would be from the 1923 comedy "Balloonatic".

Overtime, Cinema's had to adapt and change many aspects of their film due to the introduction of television, this included changes to title sequences. Cinematic companies had to make aspects of cinema more special in order to regain a diminishing audience, one way in which this was done was by making title sequences more elaborate and produce awe from the audience, a sense that could not be gained through watching television.

Eventually, television also began to use title sequences and this resulted in almost a battle between the two forms of entertainment, film and television. This caused title sequences to explode in the form of new ideas and creativity. This caused inspiration within all aspects of media and this made title sequences pivotal aspects on cinema and television, in modern times title sequences give the audience an idea of its genre.

As of the beginning of the 21st century, title sequences can be found in a variety of media besides film and television including video games, conferences, and even music videos. The following clip is a more modern example of a title sequence: