What makes a good title sequence? (6)

What makes a good title sequence? (Kyle Cooper)

Kyle Cooper is an American title sequence designed who ‘single-handedly revitalised title sequences as an art form’. Some of his most famous works are: ‘Se7en’, ‘Spider-Man’, and ‘Dawn Of The Dead’. Cooper has won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Picture Editing and has been nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Main Title Design.

What does he think makes a good title sequence?

Kyle believes that it is important for the title sequence to go ‘’seamlessly’’ into the film itself. He also believes a good title sequence has the effect of setting an expectation for the audience. They should be captured in the moment, trying to absorb everything they see in excitement.

What is important about the font used in the film ‘Seven’?

The font used in ‘Seven’ has significance as it helps gives an insight of the character’s state. Since he is a serial killer and not mentally stable this is reflected in his handwriting. Also, the font can help to add to the overall tone of the film, which will set an impression to the audience.        

What reasons does he have for liking the following title sequences?

1     Deadzone

Cooper discusses the typography commenting on the simplicity. He says that "Deadzone" made him realize his interest in film and typography. He also mentions that he enjoyed the music being played out overtime, which created a sense of mystery.

2     To Kill a Mocking Bird

   Cooper describes the title sequence of ‘’To Kill a Mocking Bird’’ as beautifully photographed, commenting on the character’s obsession being captured well. Also, the form of horizontal lines and round objects such as the marbles create a great contrast.

    What does he mean by "story based" main title sequence?

     What Cooper means by a ‘story-based’ title sequence is one with a specific back story or a metaphor which has something to do with the film. He says he has always been more comfortable with these types of title sequences and It seems this is important to him as he believes it aids in explaining the context of the movie.

   What problems might a studio face after an audience test screening?

 The problem of having to reshoot a scene, but not having the budget for it may occur and also sometimes the audience may not understand an aspect of the scenes.

 The title sequence then becomes important for the studio as it can become a prologue or another scene of the film. This helps as it allows for the studio to put in information that got left out.

  What did the title sequence to Dawn of the Dead try to do?

  The title sequence was produced to fool the audience into panicking as it seems there is a carnage in the setting. Cooper also creates a second title sequence which fools the audience into believing a happy ending is to come but the survivors end up on an island with more zombies. Apparently the audience had a greater reaction to this.

  Kyle believes that title sequences are important as they help tell the back story of a film and also allow the editing to go faster as the production team have a cleared idea of scenes they need to cut out.