The Art of Movie and TV Title Design

I don't know about you, but I enjoy the hell out of a great title sequence! If they're good, they suck you right in to the movie or TV show you're about to watch. They're the first thing we see when the movie starts, and they basically set the mood and the tone for the rest of the film.

When I think of great movie title sequences, the first one that pops into my head is David Fincher's Se7en. That was the first title sequence I ever saw that just completely blew me away. There have been many other awesome title sequences since then, both old and new. But Se7en is burned into my brain. Here's a link to a few other aticles we've posted on title sequences. 

Here's a great video from PBS’ Off Book that focuses on the art of the title sequence. It includes interviews with title sequence creators Peter Frankfurt and Karin Fong from Imaginary Forces, Ben Conrad from Logan, and Jim Helton of Blue Valentine. It also includes some samples of the title sequences they've created.

The credits are often the first thing we see when we watch a great film or TV show, but the complexity and artistry of title design is rarely discussed. Creators of title sequences are tasked to invent concepts that evoke the core story and themes of the production, and to create a powerful visual experience that pulls the viewer into the film's world. In this episode we hear the stories of some of the most inventive people working in the field, including the creators of the iconic Mad Men sequence, the hilarious Zombieland opening and "rules" sequences, and the stirring end credits from Blue Valentine.

Enjoy the video!