Conventions of a title sequence.

A title sequence is the method by which a film credits production & cast members utilizing visuals and sound. The opening credits list the most important members of the production & they are either on a black screen or over action. There may or may not be accompanying music. The aim of an opening sequence is to establish characters, settings, & genre.

Usually a title sequence will contain:

• Details of the cast and crew
• The films title
• An introduction to the characters or character type
• Indication of place
• Indication of historical period
• Information regarding mood & tone
• Introduction to signature theme tune
• Information about genre
• Questions that the viewer finds intriguing (sets up enigmas)
• Patterns & types of editing that will be echoed in the remainder of the film
• Mise en scene & cinematography that will be echoed or elaborated upon later in the film.

Common credits in a title sequence:

• Name of production companies 
• Producer 
• Name of title
• Director 
• Other key crew
• Executive producer 
• Top billing actors

S.T.I.N.C.S.

S.  Setting: Where & when is this film set?
T. Theme: What is the mood of the film?
                   What is the film really about?
I.  Iconography: Costumes, Makeup, Props, etc, relevant to the genre.
N. Narrative: What is the story about?
C. Characters: Who are they?
                         What will they be like?
S. Style: Cinematography, sound, editing.
               What will the film look & feel like?