4. Analysis of artofthetitle.com - Research

It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World (1963) — Art of the Title

The title sequence is directed by the famous 'Saul Bass', as mentioned before he is renowned for his innovative sequences. Mad World is supposedly a frenetic, exhausting film and the sequence definitely portrays this. We are bombarded with everything Mad. (a stylized title sequence)

The animation techniques used by Bass in Mad World were heavily influenced by a new movement int eh cartoon industry that favoured a modern, stylized aesthetic over the then-dominant school of Disney hyper-realism. Animation isn't a cheap process so these guys had a lot of cash for sure. These type of title sequences became popular in the 90's as titles became parts of moving images, it required huge amounts of digital technology and expertise.

The upbeat music also matches with the title as it gives the feeling of abnormality. All of these factors definitely support the job of the title sequence. What do you mean you don't know what the point of one is?! TO GRAB YOUR ATTENTION OF COURSE,
Please click the link above to watch the title sequence - I warn you now, it is quite lengthy for its kind.
(source: artofthetitle.com)


The Sopranos (1999) — Art of the Title

Although this isn't a film sequence it is clear that the series decended from movies such The Godfather, Goodfellas & Scareface - all along the lines of a cigar-smoking mob boss. This would be a narrative title sequence.

We are introduced to a man in transit checking his mirrors seeming to be in discomfort, once he passes through the state barriers he sets alight his cigar and begins to relax for the journey ahead. Credits are displayed on the screen zooming past with the car. The music which compliments talks about taking what is yours - I think we can agree that they aren't discussing anything with a cup of tea and biscuits.

As we proceed to the destination we pass both good and bad neighborhoods. We eventually arrive at a huge house in what seems to be a secluded area - we know he is wealthy and in power by this point. The title then appears on the screen as the mysterious man exits his car. 'The Sopranos' with the letter P replaced with a pistol.