4 different types of title openings.

There are four different types of title openings:

• A 'discrete' title sequence - This is a mini clip which in some instances is separate from the actual movie. It gives you a glimpse of the movie and puts you in a particular mood, it sets you up for the movie. It often includes a lot of editing.
• A 'traditional' title sequence - This often uses specific sound and font in order to create an atmosphere for the audience and help them to become engaged. An example of this is an impact font which will create an up tempo environment for the audience.
• Straight into the film title sequence - This is an attempt to jump straight into the storyline and gets the story up and running from the first moment. This is likely to be seen in a horror or an action movie.
• A 'Stylized' title sequence - This is a mixture between discrete and straight into the film. Usually one follows the other for example it will start off straight into the movie and after that it will go into discrete. It is often seen in action movies.

My favorite type of sequence is the discrete sequence. A movie where this is used is se7en. It creates a  very tense atmosphere and puts you in the driving seat, preparing you for the movie. It also gives you a sense of what the movie is about however it doesn't give it away.

Alan