The four types of Film openings

WHAT ARE THE 4 TYPES OF FILM OPENINGS?

There are many different ways Directors can use a title sequence to give the audience an impression of the mood of the film before it actually begins. 

There are four main ways that this can be portrayed: 

1) Blank Screen 

2) Still Images 

3) Moving Images 

4) Animation/Motion

The Blank Screen title sequence involves different types of typeface on a black background; this is the most used opening technique because it is a very low budget opening which is effective. The different typefaces on the black background contrast each other making them stand out to the audience. The Blank Screen is a very simple way of introducing a film and important information at the start of the film.

A Still image title sequence is more elaborate than text on a blank background. This is when text is placed onto visual images in the opening sequence along with music. This gives the audience a better idea on what tone and the genre the film is. The film "Rear Window" (1954) directed by Alfred Hitchcock uses a still image in the opening sequence which then turns into an establishing shot by the raising of the curtains.

The Moving Image title sequence is when credits are placed onto moving images. The title sequence usually presents some kind of metaphor or narrative to the audience as it clearly presents the tone to the audience. "Forrest Gump" is a good example because the title sequence involves following a feather around the sky and city.

Titles using animation or motion only became popular in the 1990s. The titles became part of a moving image and are linked together to make a flowing animated title sequence.

 However, it stay one of the most difficult sequences to create as it requires a lot of digital technology, making it expensive, as well as styled editing.