After some research, I have discovered some obvious and some less obvious guidlines and traits which are shared amongst the vast majority of opening sequences. The most obvious is the titles. The titles usually come in a particular order - firstly we see the production companies and editing team (such as 'Paramount Pictures' etc) and then once clips and sounds of the movie opening sequences begin we see the 'biggest' and known actors/actresses followed by the name of the film and the 'lesser' performers. After the main names are shown we can see either more names of executives and co-producers etc or equally as likely the director's name and a cease to the music and images as the transition in to the main film begins.
Another less obvious trait is the hints and introduction in to the world of the film. Key areas such as location and characters can be explored and an essence of the storyline is revealed. Other things like the genre and the era which the film is set can be determined within the first two minutes of the movie. Although, having said this, there are several films I can think of which encounter some 'red herrings' or misleading truths which can throw the audience off from the very beginning - a useful trick in such genres as the thriller or even a comedy!
The main aim of an opening sequence is to engage the audience and leave a sense of curiosity and mystery for the viewer to want to see more. this can be achieved succesfully by sticking to a traditional sequence or by creating an original piece - both have their pros and cons!
Another less obvious trait is the hints and introduction in to the world of the film. Key areas such as location and characters can be explored and an essence of the storyline is revealed. Other things like the genre and the era which the film is set can be determined within the first two minutes of the movie. Although, having said this, there are several films I can think of which encounter some 'red herrings' or misleading truths which can throw the audience off from the very beginning - a useful trick in such genres as the thriller or even a comedy!
The main aim of an opening sequence is to engage the audience and leave a sense of curiosity and mystery for the viewer to want to see more. this can be achieved succesfully by sticking to a traditional sequence or by creating an original piece - both have their pros and cons!
Here are two very different examples of opening sequences-
-C.W-
You have raised interesting points especially about tiles, conventions and originality. Hopefully from your initial research you can come up with ideas for your sequence. I look forward to you developing your ideas and analysing a sequence in more detail.
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