Research into title sequences

Some history behind title sequencing:
Since the invention of the cinematograph, simple title cards were used to top and tail silent film presentations in order to identify both the film and the production company involved, and to act as a signal that the film had started and then finished. In silent cinema title cards were used throughout to convey dialogue and plot and it is in some of these early short films that we see the first examples of title sequences themselves, being quite literally a series of title cards shown at the beginning of a film.

Title sequences in movies:
Many films have used unusual strange and elaborate title sequences for example int he 1936 Showboat little cut-out figures on a revolving turntable carried overhead banners on which were displayed the opening credits This opening sequence was designed by John Harkrider. In many films the title sequence is shown upon a background (sometimes moving). Also, fonts vary, sizes, shapes, styles and movement.


Title sequences in television:
In general, a television title sequence may include shots from a previous episode, their theme tune and a typographic logo. Although a title sequence may be changes and modified during a series to update cast changes or incorporate new "highlight" shots from later episodes, it will tend to remain largely the same for an entire season such as coronation street or eastenders which have only ever been altered slighty and are highly recognisable tunes. Sometimes the strength of a title sequence expressing the concept of the show will be the key element a producer will target in order to revamp a show between seasons. Therefore some shows have enjoyed several quite different title sequences and theme music throughout their runs, while in contrast some ever-popular shows have retained their original title sequences for decades with only minor alterations.