Last post I focused on the on the openings of three popular coming of age films. Today however, I will be discussing credit sequences (AKA Title Sequences). Having a title sequence is a common element of all films, but their approaches vary greatly depending on their genre and intended mood. For example, credits may be placed at the very beginning of a film (before the initial scene), midway through the opening (at an interesting time), or even at the end of one (usually a stylistic choice). Let's explore some of these different styles!
The Outsiders
This iconic coming of age film is based on the novel by S.E. Hinton. It was directed by Francis Ford Coppola in 1983 and touches on themes such as loss of innocence, navigating class division, and camaraderie. Its opening credits are very particular, as "Stay Gold" plays in the background, a dark screen transitions to a picture of the protagonists, a group of young boys. Subsequently, the title is then displayed, moving slowly across the screen, each letter taking up a large part of the screen. Simultaneously, the names of the film's major actors, director, and production team are displayed below the title. The entire sequence lasts a little over two minutes when the song ends and the first scene begins.
Having this long, intentional title sequence is meant to prepare the audience for the viewing, acting as a bridge between the production house's visual and the official start of the film. It also sets the tone for the film and provides some subtle context. In this case, from the picture shown at the beginning of the title sequence, one can reasonably infer that the movie will focus on a group of boys. Finally, long title sequences typically build anticipation for the start of the film. Especially when viewed in a theater setting, where you're not able to skip ahead to the beginning of the movie, creating an eagerness to start watching.
Clueless
As I mentioned in a previous blog post, Clueless is one of those movies you can watch when you're 13 or 30 and still love it. Directed by Amy Heckerling in 1995, the film's most significant themes from a coming of age viewpoint that have to do with teen social hierarchies, relationship maturity, and self-empowerment. There's not much to say of its title sequence, as it is short and sweet, displaying only the production company "Paramount Pictures" followed by the movie title: "Clueless". It does however, include a background song,"Kids in America" by The Muffs, that acts as a sound bridge between the opening credits and the sudden cut to the first scene.
Short and minimalist opening credits are definitely the most popular in films and are used when the director would like to immediately jump into the action. They help avoid the audience disengagement that sometimes occurs when long title sequences are unsuccessful. Additionally, they are time savers and cost-effective, making them the go-to choice for smaller, low-budget films.
Moonrise Kingdom
On a slightly more recent note, Moonrise Kindgom, released in 2012 was directed by one of my favorites, Wes Anderson (I find his work very artistic), and includes themes of teenage romance, vulnerability, and transition to adulthood. Its title sequence is incorporated in the opening scene, with major actors' and production team's names displayed in the corners of the screen as the first scene begins. It's sound is completely diegetic, and relies on visuals over sound for engagement. The official film title is displayed just over the two minute mark, as music transitions from diegetic to non-diegetic just as it crescendoes. However, after the title is displayed, credits continue to be displayed up until the four minute mark, where the opening is completed.
This style of opening sequences is my personal favorite. To me, adding the title sequence towards the middle of an opening is stylistic and creative, engaging the audience by giving them sound and visuals as well as providing them with the film title (simultaneously a form AND function convention). It is also the most effective in tone/mood-setting for the film, doing so immediately without the initial interruption of a title. For my own film opening, I will most definitely pick this style of opening credits, taking inspiration from Moonrise Kingdom and similar films to successfully engage viewers and create a nice transition.
Overall, I have found that there are many different ways to approach a title sequences, and there is no "one size-fits all". To create an successful and effective one, you must take into consideration what feelings you want it to evoke. The title sequence is an important part of any film, no matter the genre, but each may utilize different methods. I hope you enjoyed exploring some coming of age opening credits!
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