Title Sequence Analysis

 Once we had collected our research we felt as a group that we needed to research into more title sequences of films. We felt that we needed to do this as this would then give us a better understanding of the common aspects of title sequences and also enhance our understanding of what makes a good title sequence.


The Usual Suspects

Throughout the title sequence we see that the camera does very little until we get to nearly the end of the sequence. Here we see a close up shot of same wooden sticks that are being set a light. This then cuts to two men. By using cuts it makes the pace of the film seem faster. We then see the camera panning as one of the men lights a cigarette.  Here the lighting is extremely dark. This creates a sense of uncertainly as the audience don't know what is going to happen next. Furthermore we then see the camera use a mid shot. This shot shows us the man lighting a piece of paper. This then cuts to a close up shot of the floor where we see the man drops the piece of paper setting alight the oil that is one the floor. Surrounding this oil is a man. Here the camera gives us the impression that he is trying to kill the man who is also or is trying to kill himself and the man. We then get a high angle shot of looking up at a man form above this.

The sound that we can hear is some music which is non-diegetic. The music that we here is eerie and also is very high pitched. It sounds as if something frightening is going to happen that you wouldn't expect. As this is being played over the titles it already builds up tension and suspense for the opening of the film. It is also a piece of music that could make the audience feel uncomfortable.

The title have a black background with the text appearing over the top. We see that when you first look at the titles the writing look white. However when looking closer the writing is actually the colour of blue. Although it is very faint.  The text that we see is very bold.  The typeface that has been used is San Serif. This font is clear and bold, allowing for it to be read easily. Although this leaves us opened minded about the film as if doesn't give away any ideas as the time zone of the film. For example if the writing looked hand written and old, then we might presume it was set a long time ago.
Lastly we also see that when the text is one the screen, it isn't stationary. It moves about in a fast motion and half the letters move up and half move down.





Super 8 2011

In the opening titles are see that the camera doesn't do anything. We see that the camera doesn't do anything as we get no image with the titles. All we see is a black background along with the white text. This is effective as it leaves suspense as to what the opening of the film is going to be like.

We see a black background with the white text over the top. However here we see that writing backwards. This is effective as it makes the audience look and pay attention. Around the writing we see a glow that makes the white font stand out. This writing itself is bold and is in capitals. By the writing being in capitals, it makes it stands out and it can also be seem much clearer. The typeface that has been used is sans serif.   As the titles end we see that the title of 'Super 8' fades out along with the black background leading us into the opening scene of the film.

When the titles are playing we hear some non-diegetic music. This music sounds as if something is being constructed or being taken part.  Over the top of this we also here a very high pitch sound. This sound is eerie and also creates tension.





From watching these two title sequences I have learnt many things. One of the main things I have learnt is that it is effective if there is an image behind the titles. This can be of the main film or things that relate to the film. By it being off the film is lets the audience know the story. Furthermore I have also learnt that the text needs to be clear, and needs to tell a story. For example if the font looked like it had been hand written it might illustrate to the audience that its quite old. I am going to take the information that I have learnt and incorporate this into mine and my groups opening.