3.What is a title sequence? - Research

1. A title sequence is the method by which films or television 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.
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The first person to use a title sequence at the beginning of a film is known to be Thomas Edison. He used a text board with hand written credentials which would display the company name and a copyright note as proof it was his work. This was first used in 1897 but we have come a long way from then. 

With the development of sound, directors were able to intrigue the audience even more and eventually lead to actors/stars being credited at the beginning of the film, soon enough the function of the opening title sequence became a gatekeeper for the rightful owner. 

As we move along in years, television became a huge part of people's everyday lives which lead to more and more people staying at home rather than visiting the theatre. This pushed film makers to reinvent film media. Soon enough, film makers and title designers elaborately designed titles hoping to grab the attention of audience before the film even began!  

By the 50's  title sequences became miniature films in themselves and did more than just introduce the actors. Saul Bass was renowned for pioneering innovation in title design - he was particularly known for collaborating with Alfred Hitchcock. Around this time period Pablo Ferro and Maurice Binder began their careers, for many years they set the standard for film title design until technological developments produced a second renaissance of opening sequences. 

Superman 1978 was the first film to obtain a digitally generated opening title sequence, the sequence fascinated many with its multi-dimensional visuals which seemed physically impossible. Two years later computers with graphic User Interfaces became available for designers which software such as After Effects could run on lead to key advancements in the field of film media. Designers and Directors were now able to visualise their title on our screens which allowed the fusion of old trends with new technology. 

In the recent years, opening sequences have combined typography and space which comes at the expense of readability. Across the decades there are several similarities between sequences - they are designed to become a part of the cinematic space and share common elements with the films upcoming settings. In contrast, big name 'Woody Allen' either has a reduction or a complete omission of opening titles in his films. 

Kyle Cooper is also known for his 'eye-catching' sequences - his most recognised work being that of 'Mimic' and 'Se7en' these share the similarity of lowercase letters endlessly being displayed across the screen.  

Film maker 'Gasper Noe' is heavily known for attacking the spectator with a flurry of visual and auditory onslaught. .