A Small Intro to Titles

A title sequence is the method by which films or televisions programs present their title, key production and cast members, or both, utilizing conceptual visuals and sound. It usually follows but should not be confused with the opening credits, which are generally nothing more than a series of superimposed text.

History

Simple title cards were used to top and tail silent film presentations in order to identify both the film and the production company involved, and to act as a signal that the film had started and then finished. Title cards were used in silent films to convey dialogue and plot, technically making them the earliest examples of title sequences.

The Title Design of Saul Bass from Ian Albinson on Vimeo.

As cinema title sequences grew longer, we begin to see the involvement of graphic design luminaries such as Saul Bass, which directly influenced the 1960s television preference in creating strong graphic-led sequences for many shows.

At the beginning of the 21st century, there were many options available to film-makers regarding the designing of title sequences. Some superimpose opening credits over the opening scenes, while others place everything at the end of the movie instead.

Due to the commercial environment of television broadcasting, most series have regular and identifiable title sequences.

Film

In the late 1950s, film title sequences have been a showcase for contemporary design and illustration. Again, the title sequences of Saul Bass are among the best examples of this, as well as Maurice Binder (Known best for working on 14 James Bond films, particularly the signature gun barrel sequence for the opening titles of Dr. No), having inspired many imitators both in cinema and on television.

While Kyle Cooper's title sequence for Se7en has been very well received and remains a huge influence for future designers, it remains common in present times for titles to superimpose text over a black background.

Television

In general, a television title sequence will at some point badge the show with a typographic logo. Shots of highlights from earlier episodes or shows as well as key presenters or cast members' names tend to be incorporated into these sequences as well. It also takes the right type of music (Be it instrumental or a song) to enhance the visual treatment of the images presented in the sequence, to better convey the tone and mood of the programme.

In japanese animations, opening and ending title sequences have evolved into a distinct art form in their own right; due to the running length of a half hour block of programming on Japanese television providing more time for the actual episode as opposed to commercials, an episode is able to budget one-and-one-half minutes each for their opening and ending sequences. Guest animators will be brought in now and then to direct and provide key animation for these sequences. 

The opening credits will usually include the director, producer, animation director, studio, music and opening animation credits, much more detailed credits tend to be saved for the ending credits.

In serials, the title sequence is produced at the outset of a series, it will usually include scenes from early episodes already shot when the sequence was prepared. Short clips of key characters will often climax in a freeze frame as that cast member's name is superimposed. In and around these elements will be other footage depicting the location in which the series is set and therefore its era. A title sequence might also be used to explain the premise of a series, traditionally utilizing clips from its pilot episode.

Although a title sequence may be modified during a series to update cast changes or incorporate new "highlight" shots from later episodes, it will tend to remain largely the same for an entire season. Some shows have enjoyed several quite different title sequences and theme music throughout their runs, while in contrast some ever-popular shows have retained their original title sequences for decades with only minor alterations.  Other variations include changing only the theme music whilst keeping the visuals or vice versa.