Being the first thing you see, the title sequence can act as a sneak peak into what awaits the you. From TV to movies the title sequence has been used to set the scene for the rest of the show or movie. Many title designers attempt to access our emotions and will often times exhibit the essence of what we are about to see.
The title sequence for “300” uses simple imagery and time-based effects to give an overview of the movie. The movie is also based off of a graphic novel and the title designer pays homage to this through the typography choice of what appears to be classic comic book typeface. Another interesting effect that I’ve seen in many kinetic typography designs is the technique of one thing morphing into another. This technique is used repeatedly in this title sequence and although it’s often used in other title design, I seem never to grow tired of the effect. I also love how larger than life all of the characters are in the movie, again referencing the graphic novel origins of the film which is also used during the title sequence.
Another title sequence I love is from the movie Almost Famous. I love the title sequence for the same reasons I love the movie, it portrays a simpler time when great music was on the radio instead of the top 40 crap they play now and people were open and accepting of the eccentric. Not to mention it would have been pretty rad to tour the country with a band like Stillwater! I love how the title sequence is hand-written, scribbled with a pencil and sometimes erased when he makes a mistake…how authentically human. The shots of artifacts from the tour panning through the sequence along with the music build the excitement and anticipation for what you’re about to experience, especially if you’re a music lover. It’s also really interesting to look at the typography choices on the posters, back-stage passes and ticket stubs from different concerts, especially the final image from the title sequence, the key from The Plaza hotel.
And then on an entirely different note, there’s Dexter. I have a strange fascination (as most of America does) with the character Dexter. He’s a serial killer that you come to love because he’s been hurt and he’s a serial killer with a conscience. Right, like that makes it any better. But somehow, it does! The whole title sequence makes you feel anxious right from the start. The first thing you see is a mosquito stick it’s blood-sucking mouth into Dexter’s arm. That’s gross and is meant to creep you out! The first shot of the title “Dexter” uses red font with blood splatter that seems to fill up with oozing blood. Throughout the title the text is red, symbolizing blood. Little else is done with the typography but the pure symbolism of his morning routine juxtaposed against the storyline is brilliant. I was late in getting into the show but as soon as I saw this title sequence, I was hooked!
