Importance of Opening Credits & Title sequences

• What is the purpose of opening credits?
Opening credits is a list of the most prominent people involved in a television broadcast or film, shown at the beginning of the program. Usually shown as text on a blank screen or static pictures, or sometimes on top of action in a show. It could be considered one of the most important pieces in a film. Other than trailers and marketing elements, they are the first piece of text the audience are introduced to as the movie begins. These quick clips (all about two-three minutes) outline the filmmakers intentions and set up the expectations of those watching.

• What is the difference between opening credits and title sequences?
A title sequence is the method by which films or television programs present their title, key production and cast members, or both. The movie title sets the tone, atmosphere and characters for the audience, the opeong credits can either make or break an openin scene. The movie title gives a hint to the reader of what they can expect throughout the film through the condensed phrase.

• What techniques can be employed in an opening sequence?
Techniques that can be employed in an opening sequence could be; shots of the location. In doing this the opening sequence gives the audience an indication of the setting but also a sense of the atmosphere within the specific location in the film. Additionally, within the opening sequence is the establishing of the characters involved in the film, the audience are able to paint an image within their minds of the type of personalities and strengths that could be more seen and developed throughout the working of the film. The audience are able to predict how the character may react to certain or events or situations that may emerge as the plot evolves. This will be based upon their observation of the character in the opening sequnece.