1. Discrete title sequences. These consist of a series of short scenes which are not part of the film, but set the mood for the film. The cinematography and music are used to create the atmosphere. Clues as to the narrative of the film might be included in the scenes. They can be seen as a “mini film” before the film properly starts, as in 'Se7en'. The title sequence of Kyle Cooper’s film 'Se7en' is a classic example of this type of opening, and has been copied by many directors since. The audience are given an insight into the main character in an exciting, but disturbing way, leaving them anxious, but wanting to see more. Another example is Skyfall, which uses haunting music by Adele to enhance the stylish scenes featuring James Bond.

2. Narrative openings. The opening consists of a coherent story line which prepares the audience for the film. The title sequence of 'The Shining' uses wide tracking shots of a car on a mountainside road next to a beautiful lake. The camera flies over the scene. Meanwhile the music with brass instruments playing slowly creates an unsettling atmosphere.


3. Credits over screen. This type of title sequence simply consists of a blank screen with the credits rolling up. The choice of font and colour is important in setting the mood for the film. The sound is also important: for example in Donnie Darko the opening creates an atmosphere of anxiety and anticipation in the audience, with the sound of a storm, or the sea. There is more scope for the audience to impose their own ideas in setting the scene. The music then starts quietly as the camera pans in to see Donny lying on the road: apparently lifeless, but he then wakes up and cycles off.



4. Stylised editing. This relies heavily on the editing process. In the opening to 'Mesrine'. The split screen enables the audience to view the action from different angles simultaneously. This gives the impression that the character is being observed by people all around. Zombieland also uses a stylised opening. As with other opening, the choice of music is important to create the atmosphere before the film starts. For example the opening of Spiderman 3 combines cartoon images with shots of the actors, stylised spiders’ webs and more abstract images: all swooping in and out of view.

My group is thinking about using discrete title sequences: with one character walking round the forest to set the scene for our film.