Structure of Film Openings

When looking at film openings there are 3 basic types of structures :

• Narrative
• Discrete
• Titles over blank screen 

And an additional fourth style what we like to call 'stylised editing' 

Examples of Narrative : I Am Legend, The Shining, Panic Room

This type of opening usually has the setting of where the film may be set and just has the titles running throughout. This opening in particular conveys a very calm feel to the audience yet the music gives off a slight twist, showing that something is not quite right and creepy.

Examples of a discrete title sequence : Final Destination 5, Seven, Enemy of the State

Discrete sequences have nothing to do with the actual film itself but is a separate piece of filming that is completely edited. It may give off a hint of what genre the film may be but doesn't show the storyline, who's the main characters and what might happen. This particular type of sequence our group liked because it leaves the audience wanting more and constantly questioning what the sequence has to do with the film.

Examples of Titles over blank screen : Psycho, Donnie Darko, Sleeping with the Enemy

Titles over a blank screen is simply what it says in the title. You have the titles followed by the narrative opening on top of a blank screen. Depending how you edit this sequence can become quite boring for the audience but I believe with a good soundtrack you can opening quite gripping and you may find it can build a lot of tension.  Donnie Darko is an example of this.

Examples of stylised opening : Mezrine, The Taking of Pelham 123

Stylised openings tend to be edited and filmed as if they were music videos. They can be quite fast paced with a lot of cutting and editing. In a sense it can come across quite glamours and suave having a very huge impact on the audience. It may at times give the whole story line away but at least it leaves the audience satisfied, enjoying just the opening resulting in them wanting to watch more. This particular opening inspired out groups ideas on soundtrack and techniques in editing and will take most of this title sequence into account.