Opening Sequences

 Opening Sequences:

What is the purpose of opening sequences?

Opening sequences can be vital to a film. They can set the tone, create mood, develop atmosphere, and present characters to the audience all in one sequence at the beginning of a film.

What is the difference between opening credits and a title sequence?

Opening credits are the credits at the beginning of a film. They go through the key actors, actresses, crew and directors and potentially their specific roles. On the other hand, title sequences can do these things in a more condensed and creative way, setting a tone for the film, foreshadowing, and drawing the audiences focus to the film through interesting visuals.

What techniques can be employed in an opening sequence?

- motion capture 

- kaleidoscope

- character animation

- freeze framing 

- ink bleeding

- documentary style 

- distressed vector style graphics

- glitchy effects 

- live action close ups 

- CGI

- 3D

- modelling 

- rigging 

- animation

- lighting effects 

- trapcode plugins

- CG wireframe

Vertigo - Alfred Hitchcock 

In the opening sequence in vertigo, we are lured into the iris of the woman that is shown. Her eye is also opened wide, and there is red lighting which helps with the aid of creating a sinister tone. Through this, it is almost as if we are travelling into the "eye of the tiger" foreshadowing that we will experience the dangers and fears that the characters will encounter. This contrasts to the film as we are given the impression that it is about the :survival/perseverance through and facing fears", however in the film, an old friends wife commits suicide. Viewers are not prepared for this, and it comes as a shock.

Skyfall - James Bond

In the opening sequence in Skyfall, it starts off with a wide angle tracking shot of Bond falling through the water. the following shots are a combination of wide angle, tracking and close up which allow for us to establish setting, and observe key factors. As the sequence progresses, we see a target with blood gushing out from the heart area. Through these key pockets of symbolism, it allows for us to connect more with whats to come, build up our own ideas, lure us into the film, and it also foreshadows whats to come. There is symbolism when the guns and knives drop to the floor of the ocean. This is symbolic of the dangerous lifestyle Bond has to survive, as well as foreshadowing possible events.

Catch Me If You Can 

The opening sequence in Catch Me If You Can is very 60's inspired. Featuring 2D animation, paper cutout effects and that classic tom and jerry storyline, it makes this opening sequence quite special and unique. Its artistic flares and 60's inspiration make it very difficult to not get lured into the film, leaving you wanting more.