Titles and credits

Introduction to Titles and Credits

  • Titles and credits are crucial elements in films and moving images, providing information about the project and those involved in its creation.
  • The opening title sequence often sets up the mood, style, and themes of the film, establishing audience expectations.
  • Credits often appear at the end of the film, acknowledging everyone involved in the production.

Types of Titles and Credits

  • Main titles or opening credits can include the name of the film, the director, actors, and might establish narrative context.
  • End credits or closing credits list everyone involved in the film production, often in order of importance or appearance.
  • In-film text like location or date indicators, subtitles, or intertitles can also be considered as type of titles used during the film.

Design Considerations

  • Typography: The chosen typeface should reflect the film’s genre, era, and atmosphere. Typography can have a significant impact on setting the mood and style of the film.
  • Placement & Movement: The positioning and movement of the titles and credits can also contribute to the storytelling. The animation should be appropriate to the style and tone of the film.
  • Colour & Contrast: The colour of the text and its contrast with the background is important for readability and to evoke specific emotions.

Practical Tips for Creating Titles and Credits

  • Tailor the style, pace, and mood of the titles and credits sequence to match the overall film.
  • Keep it readable: make sure your audience can easily view and understand the information being displayed.
  • Integrate the title sequences within your narrative structure where possible, this can enhance story telling.
  • In closing credits, ensure everyone involved in the production is acknowledged, this underpins ethical filmmaking.

Ethical Considerations

  • It’s important to accurately represent individual’s contributions in your titles and credits.
  • Misrepresenting someone’s role or not acknowledging their work can lead to ethical and legal disputes.
  • Comply with any contractual or union requirements when listing people’s names and their roles.

Remember, a well-designed title sequence can significantly shape the viewer’s approach to your film, aiding in narrative immersion. The closing credits serve as a necessary acknowledgement to everyone who has contributed to the making of the film.