G321 - The Evolution of the Title Sequence

The title sequences used in a film opening are extremely important. They create the first impression of the film, prepare the audience for what is to come, outlines the filmmakers intentions and draws the viewer in. Not only this but it allows the filmmakers to raise awareness of the most important members of production, helps to establish the scene/setting and allows the viewer to identify the major actors and crew. However, the title sequences are easily restricted by budget and more modern title sequences have become works of art, rather than just a presentation of names.

1920's
In the 1920's, titles were simply superimposed on to a blank screen. This was an extremely simple process. Different type faces were used to help depict genre and the titles were usually white on a black screen. This method is sometimes still intentionally used whether that is due to budget restraints or simply to give the film an old-fashioned and authentic feel.

1930's - 1955
In this time, titles started to become accompanied by still images and musical scores were added. Earlier title sequences (1930's) included hand drawn cards and borders and it was the beginning of adding more than simply text. Production companies began to make title sequences visually appealing and the credits got longer.

1955 - Present
In 1955, titles started to accompany moving images, including the use of a range of camera angles and movements. The titles themselves also started to become animated and images from the titles started to reflect images from within the film. The music soundtracks started to accompany symbolic images, however there was normally no dialogue other than this soundtrack.

1990's - Present
From the 1990's onwards, titles started to become built around animation and motion graphics. Animating the text became popular and the soundtracks used would have a very distinctive sound.

Present
Nowadays, anything goes. Some of the titles are even read aloud (Fahrenheit 451) or shown backwards (Momento).

This evolution of the title sequence is important as it shows the progression already made and encourages further development. It also helps with my understanding of what is to be expected from my own title sequence.