Content Expectations of an Opening Sequence

The Title Sequence
When a film opens, it has certain features which establishes the scene and yet introduces the people who helped create the movie. In the movie industry their is a known hierarchy in which way the names of the people who created the film appear on screen (unless it is in alphabetical order).


In Order of Appearance

1. Producer - The one who has invested into the film. The opening sequence usually says the producers name and then the word 'Presents' in traditional credit styled openings.
2. Highest Billing Actors - These are often the lead roles and most famous actors/actresses that are appearing on camera.
3. Director - The one who has made the film.
4. Title - The films title usually appears after the Directors name, but can sometimes be put on the end of the title sequence as well.
5. Other Actors - The rest of the other actors who aren't highest billing are now mentioned.
6. Cast - These can be extras or actors who have played smaller roles.
7. Crew - The films crewe that have helped during films; Director of Cinematography, SFX crewe, Sound and Casting.
8. Final Name - Usually the director's name appears again here.

There are 3 main ways an opening title can go. 

• Classic Titles - Usually basic with the simplicity of just text and visuals that go through all the people who helped create the movie.
• No Titles - Some films (Like Star Wars) Don't have any titles in their opening and save them for the credits at the end of the film. The only thing they show is the TITLE OF THE FILM
• Interspersed Titles - These are usually in a sequence which goes 'Action, Titles, Action, Titles' Until the main part of the film begins.

There are many other ways of how films open but these are the ones which are broadly used throughout the film industry to establish a film itself. The whole point of a title sequence is to generate a feel for the audience by setting the scene, establishing characters, genre and narrative through:

• Visual Style and Titles
• Use of Sound
• Transitions of Titles

Example in two parts - Reservoir Dogs Directed by Quentin Tarantino 1992

---> Other half click this link... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2Xi3ioasik