What goes into a title sequence?

As well as creating my own short film I will also be making my own title sequence which will be played before the film. As this was before the film it needs to be interesting and keep the audience gripped as it sets the tone for the main film. The title sequence helps to reflect the film and shows what could be included in the film. 

 

The main thing a title sequence should do is to reflect the main film as this will give the audience knowledge of what the film may be about. By doing this they can see if they're interested in the film. Also, if the title sequence doesn't match the film it could lead to confusion from the audience which wouldn't make the film very successful.

When researching title sequences online all the title sequences I saw had sound in them. By adding sound it allows the audience to have something to concentrate on allowing them to be more involved in the film. Some of the sound was music which had no words and reflected the genre and overall mood of the film. For example, I found a sequence for a horror film and the music created tension and suspense so that it keeps the viewers interested and guessing what will happen next. Another title sequence was one for a romance film. Unlike, the horror sound this was a lyrical piece which was upbeat and catchy. This again suits the genre and also makes it more memorable for the audience. By having a song that is easy to remember it gives more chance for them to spread  word of the film if they enjoy it. Although music is an option to include in the title sequence there are other sound formats which could be considered. There could be asynchronous sound which could reflect part of the topic within the film. However, if there is a setting in place for the title sequence there could be synchronous sound reflecting the actions of the characters. Lastly, there is dialogue which could be used to tell part of the story as a brief introduction or to help build character profiles which would be handy as the film I will be making is a short film. 

 

Another thing to include within the title sequence is listing/presenting the names of the main characters and roles of the people in the film. By using this recognition method it allows actors and directors and producers to get the credit they deserve from the film. Although can seem unfair on the other people involved their name will be mentioned on the credits at the end of the film as they won't have put as much effort or time in as those who have been mentioned in the title sequence.